Stephen Colbert’s Chicago-based late-night talk show was interrupted by pro-Palestinian protesters during his live broadcast. The incident occurred during Colbert’s interview with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
The show, which aired Tuesday night U.S. time, was filmed at Chicago’s historic Auditorium Theatre, home of the Democratic National Convention.
During the interview, one of the women in the audience shouted “Free Palestine!” and questioned US support for Israel amid the ongoing conflict. Before the commercial break, Colbert assured the protester that he would discuss US policy in the Middle East with Pelosi, which he did after returning to the air.
Pelosi expressed hope that ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas would be successful. She stressed the need for a two-state solution and said, “There is no place for war in a civilized society.” This prompted another protester to shout questions about why the US was supplying arms and ammunition to Israel.
Colbert urged protesters to be patient and listen to the responses. However, when the interruptions continued, including profanity that was censored during the live broadcast, Colbert demanded that viewers “not interrupt my guests.” Pelosi’s speech ended shortly afterward.
Eyewitnesses reported that after a fierce confrontation, the protesters voluntarily left the hall. No further violations occurred during the show. Outside the theatre, protesters chanted, “Nancy, Nancy, you can’t hide!” and beat drums. Police were called to the scene and ordered the protesters to disperse, which they reportedly did.
Cursor previously wrote that the altercation between Harris and anti-Israel protesters took place in Detroit.
