“You can’t laugh and be afraid at the same time—of anything. If you're laughing, I defy you to be afraid.”

— Stephen Colbert, Parade interview (23 September 2007)

About Stephen Colbert

Born 1964

American comedian and television host.

“Don't be afraid to be a fool. Remember, you cannot be both young and wise.”

“Cynicism masquerades as wisdom, but it is the farthest thing from it.”

“Cynics always say no. But saying yes begins things. Saying yes is how things grow. Saying yes leads to knowledge.”

“The older I grow, the more I distrust the familiar doctrine that age brings wisdom.”

“If a man could half his wishes he would double his troubles.”

“Wit is cultured insolence.”

“When in doubt, tell the truth.”

“Your race, in its poverty, has unquestionably one really effective weapon—laughter.”

“Do not worry about your difficulties in Mathematics. I can assure you mine are still greater.”