Who is Amy Cole? Stephen Colbert Pays Emotional Tribute at Emmy Awards 2025

September 2025 – The 2025 Emmy Awards turned emotional when comedian and host Stephen Colbert dedicated his win to his late assistant, Amy Cole, who passed away earlier this year. Colbert’s show won the award for Outstanding Talk Series, but instead of only celebrating, he chose to remember someone special.

Stephen Colbert Honors Amy Cole at the Emmys

During his acceptance speech on September 15, 2025, Colbert thanked his production team and then mentioned Amy Cole. He said she “should be here tonight,” moving both the audience and viewers at home. Colbert also dedicated the award to his parents, his wife Evie’s parents, and his longtime colleague.

Weeks before the awards, CBS had announced the cancellation of The Late Show after 10 years. The Emmy win was therefore bittersweet for Colbert and his team.

Amy Cole’s Role on The Late Show

Amy Cole was not a celebrity, but she played an important role behind the scenes. She worked as Colbert’s executive assistant for 16 years, standing beside him through his time on both The Daily Show and The Late Show.

Her obituary described her work as more than just a job. It said she found purpose in her role and was a loyal teammate who was loved by her entire work family. Colleagues called her a person full of warmth, commitment, and support.

Amy Cole’s Death in March 2025

Amy Cole sadly died in March 2025 at the age of 53. While her family did not share her official cause of death, Late Show producer Jake Plunkett posted a tribute on X, writing: “Words cannot measure how big a loss Amy Cole is to this world. F** cancer.”* This strongly hinted that she had battled cancer before her passing.

Colbert paid tribute to her during an April 2025 episode of The Late Show. He ended the show in tears, saying goodnight before a card appeared on screen, reading: “Dedicated to Our Friend Amy Cole.”

Legacy of Amy Cole

Although Amy Cole worked behind the cameras, her influence on Colbert’s career was clear. At the Emmys, Colbert said he often received the applause and fame, but people like Amy Cole deserved equal recognition.

Her story reminds us of the many professionals who work quietly yet leave an unforgettable mark.