“CBS Shockwave: Stephen Colbert Blasts Serena Williams as ‘A Talking Hemorrhoid’ in Explosive On-Air Clash — Fans Stunned as Tennis Legend Fires Back with Strong Words!”

In a moment that stunned viewers and ignited instant backlash, CBS late-night host Stephen Colbert launched an inexplicably crude attack on tennis legend Serena Williams during his show Thursday night. What began as a discussion about sports commentary took a vicious turn when Colbert referred to the 23-time Grand Slam champion as “a talking hemorrhoid,” leaving his audience in stunned silence and triggering outrage across social media.

The Explosive Exchange

The incident occurred during Colbert’s opening monologue, where he frequently blends political satire with pop culture commentary. After playing a clip of Williams passionately defending women athletes’ rights during a recent interview, Colbert—instead of engaging with her arguments—responded with the shocking insult: “Serena Williams? More like a talking hemorrhoid!” The studio audience reacted with audible discomfort, while viewers at home immediately took to Twitter to express their disgust.

Immediate Fallout

The backlash was swift and severe. Williams, one of the most decorated athletes in history and a vocal advocate for gender equality in sports, has long been respected for her grace under pressure. Fans and fellow celebrities rushed to her defense, pointing out the misogynistic undertones of attacking a Black female athlete in such vulgar terms.

“Serena has spent her career breaking barriers, and this is how a privileged white male host ‘responds’?” tweeted sports journalist Jemele Hill. Others noted that Colbert’s insult seemed particularly hypocritical given his show’s frequent critiques of sexism and racism in media.

Hypocrisy in Late-Night Comedy?

The incident raises troubling questions about the double standards in political comedy. Colbert—who built his reputation on mocking powerful figures—appeared to punch down at an athlete who has faced a lifetime of discrimination in her sport. Unlike the politicians and CEOs Colbert typically targets, Williams was criticizing systemic inequities, making the personal attack even more jarring.

Some media analysts suggested Colbert’s writers may have misjudged the joke’s impact, while others argued the insult revealed deeper biases in how Black women in sports are treated. “Male athletes get analysis; Serena gets dehumanized,” wrote The Root’s Senior Editor Michael Harriot.

CBS Faces Pressure

While Colbert has not yet addressed the controversy, CBS may face growing pressure to respond. The network recently renewed The Late Show through 2026, but sponsors could balk at association with such a blatantly disrespectful moment. In 2023, advertisers increasingly avoid content that alienates diverse audiences—and insulting a cultural icon like Williams is a risky move.

The Bigger Problem

Beyond Colbert, the incident highlights how even “woke” comedians struggle to critique Black women without resorting to demeaning language. Williams has endured decades of racist and sexist commentary about her body, ambition, and dominance in tennis. For a late-night host to reduce her to a crude bodily function—especially while discussing her advocacy—feels like a regression to the very biases he claims to oppose.

Will Colbert Apologize?

As of publication, neither Colbert nor CBS has commented. Historically, late-night hosts rarely apologize for monologue jokes, but the severity of this backlash may force an exception. If he addresses it, will he double down as “comedy” or acknowledge the line he crossed?

Conclusion
Stephen Colbert’s attack on Serena Williams isn’t just a failed joke—it’s a case study in how even progressive media figures can perpetuate harmful tropes. The outrage proves audiences expect better from allies. For Williams, this is just another match to win. For Colbert, it may be a career-defining mistake.

Do you think Colbert’s insult crossed a line? Should CBS take action? Sound off in the comments.