It’s not every day that Stephen Colbert, a notorious critic of Donald Trump, shares the stage with the former U.S. president. Yet, this rare event happened on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, marking a significant moment in late-night television. Colbert, known for his sharp wit and unapologetic commentary, hosted Trump in a one-time interview that left a lasting impression—not just on the audience, but on Colbert himself.
Behind the Persona: Trump’s Unexpected Behavior
Stephen Colbert’s experience with Donald Trump during and after the interview sheds light on the multifaceted nature of the former president. Known for his candid critiques, Colbert didn’t hold back in his description of Trump’s demeanor during the show. “He didn’t even make eye contact — he sat there like a bad schoolboy being lectured,” Colbert remarked on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen. This behavior starkly contrasted with Trump’s usual public appearances, where he often dominates the conversation.
However, it was backstage where Colbert encountered a different side of Trump. Away from the cameras and the critical eyes of the public, Trump appeared surprisingly “clubbish” and “innocuous,” akin to someone you might encounter at a country club—not a disco. This revelation by Colbert portrays Trump as a chameleon, capable of shifting his demeanor based on his surroundings, a trait not commonly highlighted in public discourses.
A One-Time Experience: No Encore Desired
Despite the intriguing backstage interaction, Colbert expressed no interest in repeating the experience. His takeaway from the interview was clear and somewhat disappointing. Trump, who often oscillates between personas—from the “rallying populist” to the “reasonable man”—seemed to have left a bland impression on the seasoned talk show host. “I did once. I wouldn’t want to anymore,” Colbert declared, underscoring a sentiment of finality in his decision not to host Trump again.
The Impact of a Singular Interview
Colbert’s recount of his encounter with Trump offers a unique glimpse into the complexities of hosting a controversial political figure. While the interview was a one-time event, the insights gained from it continue to fuel Colbert’s critiques and comedic sketches, contributing to the ongoing dialogue around Trump’s political and public persona.
As the landscape of American politics and media evolves, interactions like these serve as poignant reminders of the power dynamics at play in televised interviews. They not only entertain but also reveal underlying truths about the figures who shape public opinion and policy. For Colbert, the encounter with Trump was more than just a segment on his show—it was a moment of revealing contrasts that continues to resonate with his audience.