🎙️ Late-Night’s Holy Trinity Strikes Back: Jimmy Kimmel, Stephen Colbert, and Seth Meyers Unite in a $1M Move to Protect America’s Most Trusted Independent News Voice
Their first joint action sends a clear message — the fight for press freedom just got loud.

Late-Night Legends Unite: Kimmel, Colbert, and Meyers Ignite a New Era for Press Freedom with $1 Million NPR Pledge

In a move destined to reshape the landscape of independent journalism, late-night titans Jimmy Kimmel, Stephen Colbert, and Seth Meyers have joined forces for a cause bigger than comedy. The trio announced a $1 million donation to National Public Radio (NPR) on the heels of NPR’s historic first day operating entirely without federal funding—a bold step that signals a new chapter for public media and free speech in America.

“This is about more than just supporting the voices on the air,” said Kimmel. “It’s about protecting a platform where Americans can hear each other, question power, and tell the stories that might otherwise be silenced.”

Colbert echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the vital role of journalism: “Comedy can entertain, but independent journalism keeps democracy informed. Supporting NPR ensures that truth and critical thinking continue to thrive.”

Meyers highlighted NPR’s everyday impact: “Late-night has always reflected society, but NPR does it every day across the country. This donation helps keep that vital work alive.”

A Million-Dollar Vision for the Future of News

The $1 million pledge isn’t just a headline—it’s a catalyst for change. The funds will empower NPR to:

Launch new investigative reporting teams in underserved rural and border communities, shining a light on stories often ignored by mainstream outlets.
Expand digital programming and access, bringing NPR podcasts, video segments, and live coverage to more than 50 million Americans.
Develop media literacy and free press education initiatives for high school and college students, teaching First Amendment rights and the fundamentals of journalism.
Foster community engagement through town halls and listening tours, connecting NPR journalists directly with local audiences to spark dialogue and understanding.

Entertainment Meets Advocacy

But the collaboration doesn’t stop at financial support. Kimmel, Colbert, and Meyers are planning a series of co-hosted NPR specials, blending news, interviews, and live comedy. The first installment, set to air this fall, will feature an “all-star panel of journalists and comedians,” spotlighting the importance of press freedom and the power of entertainment to amplify public discourse.

NPR President John Lansing hailed the initiative as “an unprecedented show of solidarity from some of America’s most influential voices in late-night entertainment. This support will allow us to continue producing journalism that informs, challenges, and inspires.”

A Rallying Cry for Independent Media

As traditional funding sources for public media dwindle, the trio’s commitment stands as a rallying cry for the future of independent journalism. By investing in reporting, education, and community engagement, these late-night icons are putting their influence—and their resources—on the line to ensure Americans have access to reliable, unbiased information.

With this alliance, Kimmel, Colbert, and Meyers have sent a clear message: independent journalism matters, and it’s worth defending. Their million-dollar pledge isn’t just an act of generosity—it’s a spark that could ignite a nationwide movement for press freedom.