This week, Conner breaks down the sudden cancellation of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, the theories surrounding the move, and what it means for the future of late-night TV. Then Micah explores the latest controversies surrounding Israel—what’s really happening, and how should Christians think biblically about the conflict and the nation of Israel? 

Plus some thoughts on the viral Coldplay concert saga, Ozzy Osbourne, movie stars, and SO much more. It’s a fast-moving episode with thoughtful insight and a steady reminder: even in the chaos, we’re called to think clearly and live faithfully.

Topics

• (00:56 ): Stephen Colbert's cancellation
• (01:41 ): Media lawsuits and settlements
• (06:08 ): Financial troubles in late night
• (10:26 ): The future of late night TV
• (15:55 ): The theology of Israel
• (25:03 ): Theological perspectives on Israel and the church
• (27:37 ): Praying for peace and rejecting antisemitism
• (30:41 ): Fun and games: Movie stars still matter
• (34:55 ): Check-in: Recent news and updates across culture

Resources

• Mailbag: culturebrief@denisonforum.org
• Culture Brief Instagram
• Sign-up for Denison Forum’s daily newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribe

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Stephen Colbert responds to cancellation of The Late Show
• Is the conflict in Israel a sign of the end times?
• Are the Jews still God’s chosen people?
• The Coldplay Couple Did Something Bad. The Internet Did Something Worse.

Other articles on this week’s top headlines:

• Morning Brew: Colbert’s show got canceled and TV may never be the same
• Politico:  Trump’s Epstein evolution
• Monday, July 21, 2025 - The Flyover
• Why Colbert got canceled - by Nate Silver
• Canceling ‘The Late Show’ Is Bad News for Late-Night TV, not Stephen Colbert - The New York Times
• All-star roster of comedians show solidarity with Stephen Colbert in first ‘Late Show’ after cancellation | CNN Business
• CNN Newsletter: Reliable Sources with Brian Stelter
• "He's a madman": Trump's team frets about Netanyahu after Syria strikes
• Financial Times: Mike Johnson shuts US House early to avoid Jeffrey Epstein vote

About Conner Jones

Conner Jones is the Director of Performance Marketing at Denison Ministries and Co-Hosts Denison Forum's "Culture Brief" podcast. He graduated from Dallas Baptist University in 2019 with a degree in Business Management. Conner passionately follows politics, sports, pop-culture, entertainment, and current events. He enjoys fishing, movie-going, and traveling the world with his wife and son.

About Micah Tomasella

Micah Tomasella is the Senior Advancement Officer at Denison Ministries and co-hosts Denison Forum's "Culture Brief" podcast. A graduate of Dallas Baptist University, Micah is married to Emily, and together they are the proud parents of two daughters. With an extensive background in nonprofit work, finance, and real estate, Micah also brings experience from his years in pastoral church ministry.

About Denison Forum

Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.