Stephen Colbert has bravely opened up about the devastating plane crash that took his father and two brothers when he was just 10 years old. The tragedy, which occurred on September 11, 1974, shaped his life in profound ways.

In an emotional interview with Oprah’s Next Chapter, Colbert described how losing his father, James Colbert Jr., and brothers Peter and Paul became the defining experience of his childhood. The three were aboard an Eastern Air Lines flight heading to enroll the boys in school when the crash occurred.

“For years, I thought that loss was my secret name—like it was who I was,” Colbert confessed. “The grief became part of my identity.” He revealed that the full weight of the tragedy didn’t hit him until years later. “I didn’t really feel it until college. Then, I was in bad shape… I was just so sad.”

Looking back now at 48, Colbert reflected on how time has changed his perspective. “When you’re young, eight years feels like forever. Now, it seems like the blink of an eye.” Despite the pain, he has found ways to cope, including keeping a meaningful quote on his desk: “Joy is the most infallible sign of the presence of God.”

Earlier this year, Colbert faced another family health scare when his mother, Lorna, suddenly fell ill. He temporarily stepped away from The Colbert Report to be by her side. When he returned, he paid a touching tribute to her strength: “Evidently, having 11 children makes you tough as nails. Confidential to a lovely lady!”

Through both laughter and loss, Colbert’s resilience shines. His ability to find joy—even after unimaginable heartbreak—is a testament to his enduring spirit.