GQ names Stephen Colbert cover star for ‘Men of the Year’ and internet is amused and confused

Stephen Colbert is front and centre on the cover of the 30th annual Men of the Year issue from GQ and the internet is buzzing. Fans, critics and late-night loyalists alike are weighing in, with some celebrating the choice and others scratching their heads at the timing and tone of the feature.

The cover story, published this week, reflects on Colbert’s career, his years on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, and the recent headline-making cancellation of the show after nearly a decade at the top of the late-night ratings. In his interview he reflects on the end of an era, his role in late-night comedy and what comes next. The cover shoot itself divides the audience, in one photo, Colbert lounges at the Chateau Marmont in a robe and nothing else, a visual choice that some fans call “iconic” and others find “odd”.

Online reaction has been a mixed bag. On one hand, longtime fans are thrilled to see Colbert recognised in this way, praising GQ’s decision to spotlight a comedian-host in a culture issue typically dominated by actors, musicians and athletes. Comments like “about time the comedy king got his crown” circulated widely. On the other hand, there’s bafflement over what exactly the honour is signalling, some users questioned whether the concept of “Men of the Year” still holds weight and if a late-night host fits the mould. One user joked “Is the robe part of the award now?” while another wrote “I half expected him to get a mic drop trophy”.

Memes have also flooded social-media platforms. The robe headline spawned GIFs of Colbert lounging with popcorn, while nostalgic threads revisited his Colbert Report character and classic segments. Social media posts compared his recognition with more conventional “men of the year” picks, leading to debates over cultural impact versus popularity. A handful of users argued the award was “funny and fitting”, while others claimed it was “more comfort food than actual milestone”.

Beyond the cover star, GQ’s 30th-edition event is set to celebrate on November 13 in Los Angeles with a ’90s-themed red-carpet party. Whether Colbert shows up in full late-night host regalia or another unexpected look remains a talking point among fans.

Regardless of the divided responses, one thing is clear: Stephen Colbert’s GQ cover has sparked conversation, reminding viewers that sometimes the most memorable honours are the ones that prompt a double take.