In a stunning incident that set social media ablaze, Late Show host Stephen Colbert sparked outrage late last night by labeling WNBA rising star Angel Reese as a “slut and an idiot” during a segment intended for humor. The comment, delivered on live television, provoked swift backlash — however, it was Angel Reese’s incisive and surprisingly harsh reply that dramatically shifted the narrative.
Stephen Colbert, recognized for his incisive humor and progressive satire, is currently embroiled in one of the most significant controversies of his career following a live broadcast that took an unexpected turn. In a segment that ridiculed celebrity branding and post-game interviews, Colbert directed his humor towards Angel Reese, quipping: “When you behave like a champion yet speak like a promiscuous individual and a fool, you do not merely represent your team — you embody every perplexed influencer with a footwear endorsement.”
The audience in the studio responded with a shocked and anxious laugh; however, social media exploded almost immediately. Viewers labeled the remark as “disgusting,” “sexist,” and “entirely inappropriate.” Hashtags such as #CancelColbert and #RespectAngelReese swiftly started to trend.
Angel Reese, recognized for both her intense gameplay and her self-assured demeanor outside of the court, replied within an hour on X (previously known as Twitter):
“I do not feel the need to respond. Individuals like Colbert eventually fade into obscurity — I merely had to be patient.”
She then delivered a sharp concluding remark:
“By the way, my GPA is greater than your ratings. Remain upset.”
The audience burst into applause following her composed yet ruthless reply, commending her for addressing the insult with elegance, intellect, and impactful criticism. Even a few devoted Colbert supporters acknowledged online that she had “defeated him effortlessly.”
Colbert’s team has subsequently released a concise statement that does not constitute an apology, asserting that the remark was “taken out of comedic context” and “not intended to offend.” However, sources within the industry indicate that CBS executives are currently in crisis mode as the demand for disciplinary measures intensifies.
Reese, on the other hand, is intensifying her commitment to her dual role as an athlete and a cultural icon. Her reaction has already garnered attention from prominent sports networks, fashion labels, and empowerment initiatives. In fact, Colbert may have unintentionally propelled her even more into the limelight.
Public sentiment appears to be uniting in favor of Reese, as support from fellow athletes, celebrities, and activists continues to increase. “She managed it with grace,” tweeted tennis star Coco Gauff. “Never underestimate Angel Reese.”
As the criticism of Colbert intensifies, inquiries arise regarding accountability in comedy, the delicate boundary separating satire from slander, and the portrayal of young Black women in both sports and media.
It is evident that Colbert’s punchline may have transformed into his most significant blow — while Angel Reese emerged as the true victor.
