AceShowbiz - Bruce Springsteen made a memorable appearance on The Late Show on Wednesday night, May 20, delivering a passionate pro-democracy message and a stirring performance to honor outgoing host Stephen Colbert.

The timing of Springsteen's visit was poignant, coinciding with Colbert's second-to-last episode as host. The legendary musician used the platform to both criticize political figures and celebrate the broadcaster’s commitment to incisive, left-leaning comedy.

Opening his remarks, Springsteen expressed solidarity with Colbert, saying, "I am here tonight to support Stephen, because you're the first guy in America who lost his show because we've got a president who can't take a joke." He then launched a sharp critique at the Ellison family, the billionaire owners of Paramount Global, which controls CBS, the network airing Colbert's program.

The musician specifically called out Larry Ellison and his son David, highlighting their $8 billion merger with Skydance Media that gave them control over CBS. Springsteen accused them of kowtowing to the former president, saying, "Larry and David Ellison feel the need to kiss his ass to get what they want."

He further condemned the Ellisons as "small-minded people," lamenting their apparent disregard for the freedoms foundational to the United States. This criticism underscored the tension surrounding the cancellation of Colbert's show, which many have speculated was politically motivated.

The highlight of Springsteen's appearance was his dedication and live performance of the song "Streets of Minneapolis." The choice was highly symbolic. Written by Springsteen in response to the deaths of Renée Good and Alex Pretti during the ICE operation in Minneapolis, the song is an anti-ICE anthem spotlighting the impact of immigration enforcement.

The track debuted live at the Defend Minnesota benefit concert on January 30, which was led by Tom Morello. It quickly became the top-selling song in the United States, debuting at No. 1 on Billboard's Digital Song Sales chart dated February 7, despite being available for only two days during the tracking period. Springsteen has pledged to donate all proceeds from the song to the families of Good and Pretti indefinitely.

Colbert's tenure on The Late Show will end with the airing of his final episode on Thursday, May 21, closing out an 11-year run. CBS announced the show's cancellation in July 2025, citing financial losses. However, many including Senator Elizabeth Warren have alleged the decision was politically motivated censorship, especially following Colbert's outspoken criticism of Paramount's $16 million legal settlement with former President Trump.

Springsteen's heartfelt tribute and performance on the eve of Colbert's departure not only celebrated the host’s influence but also amplified a message of resistance against political pressure and censorship.

Fans and viewers can watch the full speech and performance through various platforms, capturing a moment where music and political commentary powerfully intersected on national television.