Is Stephen Colbert Sick? a Candid Look at His Health Struggles

Join us on a candid exploration of Stephen Colbert's health journey, from benign positional vertigo to COVID-19 scares. Discover how this late-night comedy host maintains his humor and resilience in the face of sickness and life's challenges.

Stephen Colbert, the charismatic and witty host of The Late Show, has long been a staple in the world of late-night comedy. Known for his quick wit and humor, Colbert has made us laugh on countless occasions. However, behind the scenes, he's had his fair share of health struggles and challenges, leading everyone to question, "Is Stephen Colbert sick?"

In this article, we'll delve into the times when Stephen Colbert's health became a topic of discussion, from his battles with benign positional vertigo to his encounters with COVID-19, and the unwavering support he's received from his loved ones.

The Balancing Act: Stephen Colbert's Benign Positional Vertigo

Picture this: Stephen Colbert, known for his impeccable comedic timing, navigating the world like a stumbling Fudd or a tipsy Elvis Costello. Why, you ask? Well, it's because Colbert had an encounter with something called benign positional vertigo.

During an interview with Vanity Fair in November 2020, Colbert opened up about his experience with this disorienting condition, saying, "It’s almost entertaining until I forget. And then I go to stand up, and then I just fall down. So, I’m coming to you right now from a very weird angle, slightly listing to port."

Photo Credit: Scott Kowalchyk, CBS

Benign positional vertigo is an inner ear issue that can make the world feel off-kilter when you change positions, like standing up or lying down. It's as if your own body is playing a practical joke on you, making you question which way is up.

While Colbert's description of the "sickness" adds a humorous touch to the story, benign positional vertigo is no laughing matter. It can cause dizziness, nausea, and a general feeling of unsteadiness. Fortunately, it's usually not a long-lasting condition and can often be treated effectively.

Colbert's COVID-19 Encounters: Battling the Virus with a Smile

The COVID-19 pandemic impacted people from all walks of life, and Stephen Colbert was no exception. The official social media accounts for "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" announced on Monday, October 16, 2023, that the beloved host had tested positive for COVID-19. However, true to his resilient spirit and the age-old adage "the show must go on," Colbert continued to host his late-night show, albeit remotely from the comfort of his home.

It's not the first time the late-night comedian faced a COVID-19 scare. In April 2022, he had to cancel a taping of his show due to a bout of COVID-19. It's evident that Colbert's dedication to his craft and his commitment to entertaining his audience remained unwavering, even when his health was at stake.

He announced his COVID-19 diagnosis in a post on social media: "Yep! I tested positive for Covid, but basically I'm feeling fine- grateful to be vaxxed and boosted. Thank you for the well wishes. This just proves that I will do anything to avoid interviewing Jason Bateman." This positive attitude, despite the diagnosis, resonated with many who admired his candor and ability to find humor even in challenging times.

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Just a month later, in May 2022, another COVID-19 scare had Colbert "experiencing symptoms consistent with a recurrence of COVID." In the interest of the safety of his staff, guests, and audience, he decided to isolate for a few additional days while he was sick. Despite the challenges of experiencing symptoms, he persisted in taking the necessary precautions.