On March 14, 2025, Stephen Colbert welcomed the talented Gary Oldman to his show, where laughter filled the air and the boundaries of television censorship were humorously put to the test. The Late Show episode not only entertained viewers but also ignited conversations about the liberal use of language on public television, particularly as it pertains to the infamous list of forbidden words by CBS.
From the onset, Colbert was quick to address Oldman's history with strong language, particularly highlighting the actor's 1997 film, Nil By Mouth, which holds the record for its heavy use of profanity—featuring the F-word 428 times and the C-word 82 times. Oldman proudly declared, “I’m very [bleepin’] proud of [Nil By Mouth],” showcasing his unabashed attitude toward swearing. This comedic remark set the tone for the evening, with Colbert and Oldman engaging in playful banter about the limits of acceptable language on air.
Throughout the segment, Colbert revealed some of the specific words deemed unacceptable by CBS, which added to the humor as Oldman whimsically navigated around the rules. The actor seized the opportunity to test these limitations by jokingly asking, "Can I call you a 'dick'?" Colbert, with his characteristic humor, replied, “Yes, but not in the anatomical reference.” This playful exchange prompted Oldman to try to redefine the word, quipping, “Some dick with a tiny [bleep].” Unfortunately for him, this attempt to skirt around censorship did not go unpunished, as the second usage once again prompted the bleeper to spring to action.
Such moments underscored the dynamic interaction between host and guest, leaving viewers both amused and curious about the flexibility of language on air. Oldman’s adventurous spirit and Colbert’s witty responsiveness combined to create an engaging segment, demonstrating how comedy can tackle somewhat taboo subjects like swearing.
After the show, social media buzzed with reactions to Oldman’s antics, showcasing his reputation as someone unafraid to push boundaries. From his early days as one of Hollywood’s most talented actors to being known for his vigor with language, Oldman remains unabashed about his choices—both on and off the screen. This episode not only highlighted his commitment to authenticity but also sparked broader discussions about artistic expression and the censorship of language.
Colbert’s approach, filled with humor and candor, effectively bridged the gap between entertainment and sociocultural commentary. Oldman's attempt to inject levity with profanity, perfectly timed with Colbert's quick wit, made for memorable television, compelling audiences to ponder what is truly acceptable on conventional platforms like CBS.
Colbert’s strategy of allowing comedic explorations of sensitive topics not only resonates with audiences but also reflects shifting cultural norms around language and censorship. Viewers are increasingly aware of the gray areas between creative freedom and responsible broadcasting standards, making this episode particularly relevant during these times of changing societal values.
Overall, the episode serves as both entertainment and commentary on language adaptability within the confines of television, with Colbert and Oldman collaborating perfectly to shed light on such matters. Combined, their comedic chemistry illuminated the night, reminding audiences of the powerful interplay between language, culture, and humor.
While there will always be people divided over the boundaries of acceptable words on TV, Oldman's fearless spirit is sure to inspire future discussions, encouraging artists and entertainers alike to speak freely and challenge boundaries—one hilarious episode at a time.