Evelyn McGee-Colbert: 5 Surprising Facts About The Powerhouse Behind Stephen Colbert

Evelyn McGee-Colbert is far more than just the wife of late-night television host Stephen Colbert; she is a formidable force in the arts, a dedicated independent film producer, and a pivotal figure in the New Jersey cultural scene. As of December 18, 2025, her professional life is currently centered on her leadership role at Montclair Film and her work with the high-profile production company, Spartina Industries, marking her as a true powerhouse in the entertainment and non-profit worlds.

Her career trajectory from a promising actress to a key executive and philanthropic leader demonstrates a commitment to storytelling and community that often flies under the radar. This article delves into the most current and essential details of Evelyn McGee-Colbert’s life, highlighting her significant contributions outside of her famous marriage.

Evelyn McGee-Colbert: Complete Biography and Professional Profile

Evelyn McGee-Colbert, often affectionately called "Evie," has built a respected career that spans acting, producing, and arts administration. Her life story is one of dedication to the arts, community, and family.

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• Full Name: Evelyn McGee Colbert (or Evelyn McGee-Colbert)
• Birth Place: Charleston, South Carolina, United States
• Education:
  • University of Virginia (UVA) College of Arts and Sciences (Graduated 1985, majored in English and Drama)
  • Circle in the Square Theater School
• Spouse: Stephen Colbert (Married 1993)
• Children: Madeline Colbert, Peter Colbert, and John Colbert
• Residence: Montclair, New Jersey
• Primary Professions: Independent Film Producer, Vice President/Principal at Spartina Productions/Industries, Actress, Arts Administrator
• Key Roles:
  • President of the Board of Trustees for Montclair Film
  • Principal/Vice President of Spartina Industries (a production company with a first-look deal at CBS Studios)

The Montclair Film Movement: Leading a Cultural Renaissance

Evelyn McGee-Colbert’s most publicly active and current role is her profound involvement with Montclair Film, a non-profit organization based in Montclair, New Jersey. She is not only a founding board member but currently serves as the influential President of the Board of Trustees.

The Bellevue Theatre Reopening and $1 Million Campaign

The most recent and significant update regarding her work is her leadership in a major community project: the official reopening of the historic Bellevue Theatre. This initiative is a cornerstone of Montclair Film’s mission to foster a vibrant film culture in the area. In her capacity as President, she played a pivotal role in the public launch of a $1 million Capital Campaign to support the theatre's restoration and operational costs.

This work extends far beyond simple fundraising; it represents a commitment to preserving and cultivating a local space for independent film and arts education. Her tireless efforts have transformed the Montclair Film Festival into a major cultural event, showcasing over 120 exciting new films annually, with the 2024 festival being a notable success under her guidance.

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Behind the Scenes: Spartina Productions and Independent Film

While her work in New Jersey is highly visible, Evelyn McGee-Colbert maintains a powerful presence in the national entertainment industry through her executive roles. She is a principal and the Vice President of Spartina Productions, also known as Spartina Industries, the production company she co-founded with her husband, Stephen Colbert.

Spartina Industries has secured a first-look deal with CBS Studios, a major partnership that positions the company to develop and produce a wide range of streaming content and television projects. This role as a film producer and company executive demonstrates her business acumen and influence in shaping media content, moving from her early career as an actress to a key decision-maker in the industry.

From Acting to Producing

Evelyn McGee's journey into the arts began with her education in English and Drama at the University of Virginia and further training at the Circle in the Square Theater School. Early in her career, she earned a few small acting credits, including a cameo in the popular comedy film Strangers with Candy, a project she shared with her husband. However, her professional focus shifted to the demanding world of production and arts administration, where she has truly excelled and built her reputation as a luminary in the arts scene.

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5 Surprising Facts About Evelyn McGee-Colbert

Despite her high-profile marriage, Evelyn McGee-Colbert maintains a relatively private life. However, several fascinating details highlight her unique background and powerful influence:

1. She Met Stephen Colbert at a Show About Failure: The couple's famous meet-cute occurred in 1990 at the Spoleto Festival in Charleston, South Carolina. Stephen Colbert, who was considering quitting comedy, saw her in the crowd while watching a performance of his own play, which was about a man who couldn't commit. They have been inseparable ever since, marrying three years later in 1993.
2. She is a Charleston, South Carolina Native: Evelyn was born in Charleston, a fact that connects her to the location of her first meeting with her future husband. This Southern background is a core part of her identity, contrasting with her current life in Montclair, New Jersey.
3. She is a UVA Drama and English Graduate: Her academic background is strong, holding a degree from the prestigious University of Virginia. This foundation in both literary analysis and performance has been instrumental in her transition to a successful producer and arts administrator.
4. She is the Driving Force Behind Montclair Film’s Success: While Stephen Colbert often lends his celebrity to the Montclair Film Festival, Evelyn is recognized by local and national media as the primary luminary and organizational force. Her professional life is devoted to helping artists thrive, with the festival's growth and the recent Bellevue Theatre project being direct results of her hands-on leadership.
5. She is an Executive at a CBS First-Look Deal Company: Her role as a principal at Spartina Industries is a significant executive position. The first-look deal with CBS Studios means she is directly involved in pitching, developing, and greenlighting major television and streaming projects, giving her substantial behind-the-scenes influence in Hollywood.

Evelyn McGee-Colbert’s dedication to her family, her community, and the broader world of film and arts makes her a truly inspiring figure. Her current work as the President of the Montclair Film Board of Trustees and her executive role at Spartina Industries solidify her standing as a powerful and highly influential professional in her own right, continually shaping the cultural landscape of New Jersey and the entertainment industry.