Stephen Colbert Answered Charleston’s Call, And Now the Dolphins Are Having a Moment
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Kristina Martz, ex******************@**mf.org
The National Marine Mammal Foundation’s viral billboard campaign earns a mention in Stephen Colbert’s final Late Show monologue, bringing national attention to dolphin conservation efforts in Charleston.
CHARLESTON, S.C. | SAN DIEGO, C.A. — What began as a playful hometown invitation has officially become a national conservation moment.
The National Marine Mammal Foundation and its viral Charleston billboard campaign was featured as the closing bit during the final monologue of Stephen Colbert’s final episode of The Late Show. This marks a surreal and celebratory milestone for the nonprofit’s marine mammal conservation efforts, and most importantly, for the dolphins.
Dr. Cynthia Smith, President & CEO of the National Marine Mammal Foundation, said this: “A few years ago, we heard Stephen Colbert mention on the Strike Force Five podcast that, as a child, he dreamed of becoming a marine biologist. Our team immediately started imagining creative ways to invite him to join us as an advocate for marine mammals in his home state of South Carolina, where we have our Charleston Field Station. When news broke that The Late Show was ending and he would be heading home, we knew it was time to go big with our outreach – billboard big.”
The campaign, launched in partnership with Charleston-based Adams Outdoor Advertising, invited the James Island native and longtime late-night host to fulfill his childhood dream of becoming the next Jacques Cousteau by helping shine a spotlight on Charleston’s dolphins and the critical conservation work happening in his hometown waters.
The billboard message quickly gained traction online:
WANTED:
ONE FORMER LATE SHOW HOST
BURDENED BY UNRESOLVED WHALE-RELATED AMBITION
EAGER TO BECOME UNUSUALLY USEFUL TO CHARLESTON DOLPHINS
From their field station in Charleston, the National Marine Mammal Foundation’s scientists conduct critical studies focused on dolphin health and environmental change, and are on call 24/7 to respond to marine mammals in distress. As sentinel species, dolphins are important indicators of the health of our coastal communities. The organization is also helping inspire the next generation of marine scientists through hands-on STEM education opportunities and real- world conservation experiences.
While the campaign embraced humor and local charm, its mission remains deeply serious, protecting marine life and the ecosystems we all depend on.
“The ocean needs good storytellers too,” said Kristina Martz, Executive Operations Officer at the National Marine Mammal Foundation. “And if this has proven anything, it’s that people are eager to rally around science, conservation, and a story that brings a little joy and optimism into the world.”
The National Marine Mammal Foundation is now inviting the public to “Join Stephen’s Team (Hopefully)” by supporting marine mammal conservation and education efforts in Charleston and beyond.
To read the open letter to Stephen Colbert and learn more about the campaign, visit: NMMF.org/Colbert
About the National Marine Mammal Foundation
The National Marine Mammal Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the health and conservation of marine mammals and their ecosystems through science, service, and education. Through groundbreaking research, veterinary expertise, conservation initiatives, and STEM outreach programs, the NMMF works to protect marine life, support thriving coastal communities, and inspire future generations of ocean leaders.
About Adams Outdoor Advertising
Adams Outdoor Advertising turns spaces into stories. As one of the nation’s leading out-of-home media companies, they specialize in delivering high-impact billboard campaigns that connect brands with real people—right where they live, work, and drive. With strategic locations, creative flexibility, and deep market knowledge, they help their partners stand out and get results. Whether you’re launching a new brand, promoting an event, or expanding your reach, their mission is simple: To make advertising more powerful, more personal, and more effective.
