19Jul, 2025
Why PBS Needs Stephen Colbert Now

In today’s media landscape, public trust is crumbling. Traditional fundraising models are falling short. Meanwhile, PBS continues to rely heavily on pledge drives and telethons to stay afloat. But what if there were a better way—one that merges entertainment, civic engagement, and fundraising power?

It’s time to make the case for Stephen Colbert on PBS.

Colbert Nation: A Loyal Audience That Gives

Stephen Colbert has built something few entertainers ever achieve—a deeply loyal and action-ready fanbase. Known as Colbert Nation, this audience doesn’t just watch passively. They donate. They show up. They care.

Back in 2010, Colbert raised over $773,000 for public school classrooms through DonorsChoose.org. Around the same time, when the U.S. Speedskating Team couldn’t afford to attend the Olympics, Colbert stepped in. His fundraising efforts helped send American athletes to the world stage.

Additionally, let’s not forget the brilliance of his satirical Super PAC, Americans for a Better Tomorrow, Tomorrow. Incredibly, it raised over $1 million, all while educating the public on how campaign finance really works. Colbert didn’t just entertain—he educated, activated, and transformed viewers into donors and doers.

Through it all, Colbert proved that comedy can be more than entertainment—it can be fuel for civic action.

PBS Fundraising Could Be Transformed

PBS is respected for its integrity, mission, and educational value. Yet year after year, it must rely on pledge drives to stay funded. Telethons are nostalgic but increasingly outdated. The audience is aging, and younger generations are tuning out.

This is where Stephen Colbert could make all the difference.

He’s not just a household name. He’s a trusted voice with a track record of mobilizing action. By bringing him to PBS, fundraising would no longer rely solely on nostalgia or repeated pleas for donations. Instead, the platform could evolve—modernize—while staying true to its public mission.

To highlight that transition, it’s worth remembering how we got here.

A Nod to Jerry Lewis — and a Way Forward

Before digital fundraisers and online platforms, telethons were the gold standard. Jerry Lewis, in particular, set that bar. His decades-long commitment to the Muscular Dystrophy Association raised over $2 billion. More importantly, his marathon broadcasts became a cultural staple and showed America the power of performance-driven generosity.

However, times have changed.

What Jerry Lewis achieved through hours of emotional appeal, Stephen Colbert can now accomplish in minutes—using satire, sharp commentary, and digital reach. His presence on PBS could revive the spirit of those iconic moments, but with a voice and tone that resonate today.

This isn’t a replacement for history. It’s a continuation—reimagined for the times.

Bringing Colbert to PBS would breathe life into fundraising. He’s not just a celebrity—he’s a proven fundraiser, civic advocate, and national treasure. With his voice leading campaigns, telethons could shrink. Donations could rise. Younger viewers might tune in again, and a new generation could be introduced to the power of public media.

A Chance to Say What Corporate Media Won’t

Recently, CBS—like many corporations—buckled under political pressure. As a result, Colbert’s platform vanished. But he didn’t. He never backed down. He called out falsehoods, challenged propaganda, and stayed true to his values.

PBS doesn’t need to follow in corporate footsteps. It has the power to elevate a truth-teller where others tried to quiet him.

Colbert represents the very values PBS claims to champion: public service, education, humor, and integrity. This is more than a ratings boost. It’s a signal that PBS stands for something.

His exact mix of intellect, humor, and moral clarity embodies the best of public broadcasting. Inviting him in isn’t just smart—it’s a statement of purpose.

The Final Word

Stephen Colbert has already proven his impact. Colbert inspires people to care. Amazingly, he raises millions for good causes. He teaches through comedy and moves audiences to act.

Two birds, one stone.

So, if you’re not ready to welcome him to PBS?
Fine.

Let’s just nominate him for President and see how quickly that rattles the fragile ego currently occupying the White House.

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