Stephen Colbert has been a household name for years, captivating audiences with his quick wit, unparalleled humor, and charismatic presence. From his time as a correspondent on The Daily Show to his celebrated stint hosting The Colbert Report, and now as the face of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, he has solidified his place as one of the most influential figures in late-night television.
But beyond his sharp political satire and laugh-out-loud sketches, one question seems to persist across the internet — How tall is Stephen Colbert?
Let’s explore Colbert’s height, the fascination behind it, and some fun facts that make him the host we all love.
Who is Stephen Colbert?
Before we get into the specifics of his height, it’s worth revisiting Stephen Colbert’s incredible journey to fame.
Early Life and Comedy Beginnings
Stephen Tyrone Colbert (pronounced “Cole-BEAR”) was born on May 13, 1964, in Washington, D.C., but grew up in Charleston, South Carolina. Youngest of 11 children, Colbert’s upbringing shaped his love for storytelling and performance.
Colbert pursued acting at Northwestern University before joining legendary comedy troupe Second City in Chicago, a breeding ground for comedic talent. It wasn’t long before his comedic chops caught the eye of producers, leading to his role as a correspondent on Jon Stewart’s The Daily Show in 1997.
Rise to Stardom
While his work on The Daily Show introduced him to viewers, it was The Colbert Report (2005–2014) that catapulted him into the spotlight. Colbert perfected his satirical version of a conservative pundit, winning multiple Primetime Emmy Awards and a devoted fan base along the way.
When he took over The Late Show in 2015, Colbert transitioned from his satirical persona to show fans the authentic version of himself—a thoughtful, funny, and engaging host who skillfully blends humor with societal commentary.
Cultural Impact
Whether penning satirical books or making a cameo in The Hobbit, Colbert has a unique ability to blend pop culture with highbrow intellect. His humor is sharp, his insights sharpener, and his influence undeniable.
But amidst all his accomplishments, his fans are still curious about one oddly persistent question…
How Tall is Stephen Colbert?
Stephen Colbert has claimed on several occasions that his height is 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm). It’s a claim he’s repeated proudly, including on-air and in comedic sketches. His IMDb page and other sources have backed this up as his “official height.”
But is He Really 5’11”?
The debate about his exact height has gained traction over the years, as some fans argue he might not be as tall as he says. Celebrity Height Tracker, CelebHeights.com, lists him at 5 feet 10 ½ inches (179 cm), just a slight difference from his self-reported height.
To add to the confusion, Stephen himself has joked about his height on shows like The Late Show and even “threatened to sue Google” when a Quick Answer box wrongly listed him at 5’10”.
Comparing Colbert to His Peers
For TV hosts like Colbert, height often becomes a point of interest. When standing beside taller figures like The Late Show guest Ryan Reynolds (6’2″), Colbert does appear shorter, but not significantly so. Similarly, when compared to fellow late-night hosts like Jimmy Fallon (5’11½”) or John Oliver (5’11⅝”), his height seems right in line.
While the exact numbers may remain up for debate, one thing’s for sure—Stephen Colbert stands tall in every way that counts.
Fun Facts About Stephen Colbert
- He’s Deaf in His Right Ear
A childhood surgery left Colbert without hearing in his right ear. Yet, he’s never allowed it to hinder his career or sense of humor.
- Self-Proclaimed Tolkien Fanatic
His love for J.R.R. Tolkien runs deep. He even made a cameo in The Hobbit films, delighting fans as a spy of Lake-town.
- He Ran for President… Kind Of
As part of a satirical stint, Colbert launched a fictional presidential campaign in 2008. While it was all in good fun, it caused waves in the media and even involved Marvel Comics jokingly declaring him “the winner.”
- He Comes From a Big Family
Being the youngest of 11 siblings, Colbert has shared how his large family dynamic shaped his humor and outgoing personality.
- Married to Evelyn McGee-Colbert
Colbert met actress Evelyn McGee-Colbert in 1990, and the two have been happily married since 1993, sharing three children together.
The Role of Height in Television
Height can play an interesting role in how we perceive TV personalities. A taller stature often conveys authority, which can be an asset for late-night talk show hosts who command attention.
Colbert’s On-Screen Presence
Camera angles and set design help Colbert look his best on The Late Show. His approachable humor and larger-than-life charisma ensure he never feels overshadowed—even next to towering guests like Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson or Conan O’Brien.
A Comedic Touch
True to his nature, Colbert often pokes fun at his own height. By doing so, he breaks barriers with his audience and proves that insecurities about physical traits can be laughed off with confidence.
Final Thoughts on Stephen Colbert’s Height
Whether Stephen Colbert is 5’11” or 5’10½”, does it really matter? His sharp wit, kind heart, and unparalleled comedic talent are what truly make him a giant in the entertainment industry.
Height may spark curiosity, but it’s clear Colbert’s stature in comedy and culture towers far above the numbers on a tape measure.
Have thoughts on Stephen Colbert’s height—or just want to share your favorite Colbert moment? Drop a comment below and check out more of our deep dives on fascinating celebrities.
FAQs
Does Stephen Colbert have a degree?
Yes, Colbert graduated from Northwestern University, majoring in theater.
What is Stephen Colbert’s annual salary?
Colbert reportedly earns $15 million per year for his work on The Late Show.
Does Stephen Colbert have children?
Yes, he has three children with his wife Evelyn McGee-Colbert.
Is Stephen Colbert his real name?
Yes, Stephen Tyrone Colbert is his full name, though the “T” is silent in “Colbert.”
When did Stephen Colbert lose his hearing?
He lost hearing in his right ear during childhood due to surgery to remove a tumor.
Is Stephen Colbert’s wife an actress?
Yes, Evelyn McGee-Colbert is an actress and has even appeared in a few of his sketches and shows.
