Colbert Weighs in on American Eagle Controversy

The Late Show is a prominent American late-night talk show franchise that premiered on CBS on August 30, 1993, initially hosted by David Letterman, who transitioned from NBC’s *Late Night with David Letterman* after an 11-year run. Letterman’s version of The Late Show aired successfully for 22 years until his retirement in May 2015. Known for its innovative and often unconventional approach to the late-night format, the show garnered multiple Emmy Awards and established CBS as a late-night network contender after years of limited success in the time slot[1][9]. Following Letterman’s departure, comedian Stephen Colbert took over as host, executive producer, and writer starting September 8, 2015. Colbert brought his sharp political satire and comedy style, previously honed on *The Daily Show* and *The Colbert Report*, attracting a younger demographic and reinvigorating the franchise. Under his leadership, the show continued broadcasting from the iconic Ed Sullivan Theater in Manhattan and maintained a diverse guest mix covering politics, entertainment, business, music, and technology. The Late Show with Stephen Colbert won multiple awards, including two Primetime Emmys, and was regarded as the #1 late-night show during much of its run[4][5]. Despite its success and cultural impact, CBS announced in July 2025 that The Late Show franchise would end with Colbert’s final episode scheduled for May 2026, concluding a 33-year legacy in late-night television. The decision reflected evolving network strategies and competition within the crowded late-night landscape, including rival shows like *The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon* and *Jimmy Kimmel Live!*[1][9]. The Late Show is notable for its historic significance in American television, its ability to adapt across generations of hosts, and its blend of comedy, cultural commentary, and high-profile interviews, making it a landmark institution in business and technology media coverage as well as popular culture[4][9].

## Overview American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. (AEO) is a leading global specialty retailer renowned for its casual, comfortable, and on-trend clothing, accessories, and personal care products—primarily under the American Eagle and Aerie brands[3]. Headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the company operates more than 1,000 stores in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and select international markets such as Hong Kong and Japan, while shipping to over 80 countries worldwide via its e-commerce platforms[1][3][4]. AEO’s core demographic is teenagers and young adults, though its appeal extends to a broader age range, thanks to its focus on quality, affordability, and inclusivity[1][2]. ## History and Growth Founded in 1977 by brothers Jerry and Mark Silverman, American Eagle began as a subsidiary of Retail Ventures, Inc., opening its first store in Novi, Michigan[1]. Over the decades, ownership shifted, with the Silvermans selling to the Schottenstein family, and the company evolved into a publicly traded entity listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: AEO)[1]. The company expanded its portfolio by launching Aerie (a body-positive intimates and apparel brand), acquiring Todd Snyder (a premium menswear brand), and introducing Unsubscribed (a sustainable, upscale line)[1]. In 2021, AEO bolstered its logistics capabilities with the acquisition of Quiet Logistics, a move aimed at enhancing its e-commerce and supply chain operations[1]. ## Key Achievements AEO has distinguished itself through several notable initiatives. Its Aerie brand became a cultural touchstone by championing body positivity and inclusivity, eschewing traditional retouching in advertising and featuring diverse models[2]. The company has also made strides in sustainability, releasing annual ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) reports and launching the “AEO Better World” platform to highlight its commitments to ethical practices

Victoria's Secret is a prominent American retailer specializing in lingerie, clothing, and beauty products, recognized globally for its iconic branding and fashion shows[1]. Founded in 1977 by Roy Raymond and his wife Gaye, the company began with a modest chain of five stores before being acquired by Les Wexner in 1982[1]. Under Wexner's leadership, Victoria's Secret experienced explosive growth, expanding to 350 stores nationwide and surpassing $1 billion in sales by the early 1990s, cementing its status as the largest lingerie retailer in the United States[1]. A defining feature of Victoria's Secret's brand identity is the annual Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, launched in 1995, which became a cultural phenomenon by featuring top models known as "Angels"[1]. The "Angel" title became a prestigious accolade in the modeling world, reserved for those who regularly represented the brand. The 1990s also saw the introduction of innovative products like the "miracle bra," the Body by Victoria line, and a successful range of fragrances and cosmetics[1]. In 2002, the company launched PINK, a sub-brand targeting younger consumers, further diversifying its market reach[1]. Internationally, Victoria's Secret began expanding in 2008, opening stores in Canada, the UK, and major cities worldwide, as well as airport retail outlets[1]. However, by the mid-2010s, the brand faced mounting challenges. Shifting consumer preferences toward inclusivity, body positivity, and athleisure wear, along with increased competition from brands offering a wider range of sizes, led to a decline in market share[1]. Internal controversies, including criticism of corporate leadership and business practices, further tarnished its reputation[1]. Despite these setbacks, as of May 2020, Victoria's Secret still operated over 1,070 stores and remained the largest lingerie retailer in the U.S.[1] In