
The Colbert Report — Season 5

Stephen offered his congratulations to John King and the entire media team on their role in Barack Obama's election.

According to Matt Miller, the government bears a responsibility to guarantee fundamental necessities for its citizens, including healthcare and retirement provisions.

Benicio Del Toro recounts his encounter with Fidel Castro, detailing how the meeting served as crucial preparation for his portrayal of the revolutionary icon in the film "Che."

Lawrence Lessig argues that current copyright legislation has inadvertently criminalized a generation of young people.

Anthony Romero considers it a grave error should Barack Obama fail to shut down the Guantanamo Bay facility without delay.

Niall Ferguson elucidates the fundamental nature of money: a relationship built upon the terms of lending and borrowing.

The pervasive presence of Barack Obama in the public eye stands in contrast to Alan Khazei's earnest appeal for civic engagement.

Reflecting on President Bush’s rapport with the press, Stephen contemplates whether tonight marks the moment the controversy surrounding Shepard Fairey’s “Hope” poster will finally resolve, and if its message truly belongs to all.

According to Frank Rich, George W. Bush's rhetoric offers a comforting vision for those content with the commonplace.

Tonight, Stephen welcomes Jabari Asim, Washington Post columnist and author of *The N-Word: Who Can Say It, Who Shouldn't, and Why*.

Elizabeth Alexander elucidated for Stephen the distinction between a metaphor and a falsehood.

Tonight, Stephen welcomes Jon Meacham, the editor of Newsweek and author of *American Lion: Andrew Jackson in the White House*.

With his arrival in the White House, Barack Obama signaled a shift in scientific policy from his predecessor. Meanwhile, Ed Young offered a perspective on marital life, suggesting that increased sexual intimacy benefits those in committed r…

## Man on Wire The documentary film *Man on Wire* chronicles Philippe Petit's audacious 1974 high-wire walk between the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center. Through archival footage and meticulously reconstructed sequences, the film de…


President and Chief Executive Officer, Center for American Progress.

With the Icelandic government fracturing, a simmering anger took hold of Stephen, directed squarely at Dan Zaccagnino.

Henry Louis Gates, Jr. argues that while Abraham Lincoln fundamentally opposed the institution of slavery, his sentiments toward Black people themselves were far from favorable.

The actor appeared in the film "The Pink Panther 2."

Stephen offered a salute to the Boy Scouts, while Jonah Lehrer explored the neurological basis of human choice.

Stephen offered a warm welcome to the band TV On The Radio, who were the evening's musical guests.

The Republican Party faces considerable challenges, and Stephen recently offered a word of acknowledgment to someone who previously worked for him.

## My Genomic Self The New York Times recently featured an article titled "My Genomic Self." It explored the burgeoning field of personal genomics, examining how individuals are increasingly turning to genetic testing to understand their…

Adam Gopnik argues that the forces of faith and fear have lost their dominion over modern existence, a shift he attributes to the influence of both Abraham Lincoln and Charles Darwin.

This evening, Stephen is pleased to host Dr. Helen Fisher, the chief scientific advisor for chemistry.com, as well as an anthropology professor and author of *Why Him? Why Her?: Finding Real Love By Understanding Your Personality Type*.

Cliff Sloan considers the Supreme Court case of Marbury v. Madison to be a landmark decision, fundamentally establishing the principle of the rule of law.

Mayor John Fetterman considers Braddock, Pennsylvania an ideal recipient for a portion of the federal stimulus funds.

Stephen mused on a curious paradox: how a musician as deeply rooted in country tradition as Kris Kristofferson could also hold decidedly liberal views.

In the quiet hours of the night, what is it that David Byrne most fears he becomes?

Driven by the aim of universal healthcare, President Obama has proposed increased taxes on affluent individuals, while South Carolina stands on the precipice of potentially curbing the practice of straw purchases of firearms.

In "Let's Talk About Love," Carl Wilson grapples with the enduring appeal of Celine Dion. Meanwhile, a more practical question arises: would NASA consider naming a module of the space station in honor of Stephen if he were to adopt the moni…

In his exploration of scientific history, Steven Johnson illuminates the story of Joseph Priestley, the scientist who first demonstrated the pivotal role of plants in generating the very oxygen that sustains us.

Lisa Hannigan oversaw every detail of her album "Sea Sew," from the cover art to the liner notes and the handwritten lyrics within.

Tonight, Stephen welcomes Dr. Jay Keasling, a microbiologist and a leading figure at the Joint BioEnergy Institute. He will also speak with Bill Gerstenmaier, NASA's associate administrator for space operations, regarding the Kepler Probe a…

Tonight, Stephen welcomes Howard Fineman, Newsweek correspondent and author of *The Thirteen American Arguments: Enduring Debates that Define and Inspire Our Country*.

Peter Singer advocates for Stephen to direct his resources towards alleviating the suffering of the impoverished, rather than indulging in personal gratification.

This evening, Stephen is pleased to host the author of *The Graveyard Book*.

Tonight, Stephen offers a conversation with the author of *The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon*.

This evening, Stephen has the pleasure of hosting the author of "Engaging the Muslim World."

This evening, Stephen is hosting the president of Choose Responsibility.

Tonight, we are honored to welcome Derrick Pitts, Chief Astronomer at The Franklin Institute.

Tonight, Stephen welcomes David Plotz, author of 'Good Book LP,' for a conversation.

Tonight's program welcomes Dambisa Moyo, author of "Dead Aid."

Tonight's program welcomes one of the original architects of Twitter.

This evening, Stephen welcomes Rich Lowry, co-author of *Banquo's Ghosts*.

This evening, Stephen is hosting Queen Noor of Jordan.

Tonight, Stephen is hosting Phil Bronstein, the San Francisco Chronicle's editor at large.
This evening, Stephen welcomes Bart Ehrman, a renowned scholar of the Bible and author of *Jesus, Interrupted: Revealing the Hidden Contradictions in the Bible (And Why We Don't Know About Them)*.
Tonight, Stephen welcomes Susie Orbach, psychotherapist and author of *Bodies*. He also speaks with Sunita Williams, NASA's Deputy Chief of the Astronaut Office at the Johnson Space Center, about the naming of a new node on the Internationa…
This evening, Stephen welcomes to the show the anchor of PBS's *NewsHour* and author of *Oh, Jonny, Jim Lehrer*.
Tonight, Stephen welcomes Doug Kmiec, former chief counsel to both President Reagan and George H.W. Bush, and author of *Can a Catholic Support Him?: Asking the Big Questions about Barack Obama*. He’s also joined by Kanishk Tharoor, associa…
Sheriff Joe Arpaio rejects the notion that he places undue emphasis on the issue of illegal immigration.
This evening, Stephen will be speaking with Mike Krzyzewski, the esteemed coach of Duke University's men's basketball team.
This evening, Stephen is speaking with Ira Glass, the host of *This American Life*.
This evening, Stephen is hosting Elizabeth Bintliff, the West Africa Program Officer for Heifer International.
This evening, Stephen will host the band The Decemberists.
Tonight, Stephen welcomes Daniel Gross, journalist and author of *Dumb Money: How Our Greatest Financial Minds Bankrupted the Nation*. He will also speak with war correspondent Richard Engel.
This evening, Stephen hosts David Kessler, the former commissioner of the FDA and author of *The End of Overeating: Taking Control of the Insatiable American Appetite*.
Tonight, Stephen is joined by Ethan Nadlemann, the founder and executive director of the Drug Policy Alliance.
The Prescott Group faces a critical financial juncture, while J.J. Abrams offers subtle hints regarding Stephen’s enigmatic investigation in the Persian Gulf.
Cliff Sloan considers *Marbury v. Madison* a landmark case, asserting its importance in establishing the principle of the rule of law. Meanwhile, Paul Rieckhoff is dedicated to ensuring that veterans returning from service receive adequate …
With his approval rating currently registering at 67%, President Obama is joined by public health authority Laurie Garrett, who will offer insights into the ongoing swine flu outbreak.
On a day dedicated to celebrating faith, Mitchell Joachim contemplates a different kind of salvation: cities designed to exist in balance with the planet. He envisions urban landscapes that produce no net carbon emissions.
This evening, Stephen welcomes actor Jeff Daniels. He will also be speaking with Tamara Draut, the vice president of policy at Demos.org, regarding proposed reforms to credit cards.
Tonight, Stephen welcomes Ron Howard, the producer and director of *Angels & Demons*. He will also be speaking with Julia Sweig, the head of the Council on Foreign Relations’ Latin American Division, about Cuba.
This evening, Stephen hosts Michael Pollan, the author of *In Defense of Food: An Eater's Manifesto*.
President Trump has granted Miss California the retention of her title, the DonorsChoose competition proceeds as planned, and Yusuf will be performing.
Meghan McCain holds a deep affection for the Republican Party and expresses a desire to preserve it from those seeking to push its ideology towards greater extremes.
The Republican party seems adept at regaining public favor, while an individual of considerable influence challenges governmental authority.
John Yoo, the author of the controversial torture memos, has secured a column in a newspaper, while House Speaker Nancy Pelosi alleges that the CIA misled her.
Stephen reported on the majority of the Indian election outcomes, while Green Day discussed their album, "21st Century Breakdown."
The Republican party faces a potential decline in support from Latino voters, a shift mirrored by the view of the Persian Gulf from Sarah Palin's residence.
The Food and Drug Administration has taken issue with health assertions made by Cheerios, while Jim Moran is working to shield children from misleading advertisements for erectile dysfunction medications.
In California, certain same-sex couples are granted the right to remain legally married. Meanwhile, President Obama has extended an invitation to Iran to participate in the celebration of the Fourth of July.
The online encyclopedia Wikipedia has turned its attention to the Church of Scientology, and the newest developments regarding abstinence-only education promise to be well worth observing.

General Ray Odierno is set to host Stephen as his inaugural guest in Iraq.

Stephen extended a welcome to Sergeant Robin Balcom and Specialist Tareq Salha, inviting them to his corner of expertise, where he sought out clarity and genuine understanding.

Tom Hanks and Stephen collaborate on assembling a care package, while Charles H. Jacoby Jr. selects his preferred soldier.

President George W. Bush offered words of commendation to the military personnel, while General Frank A. Grippe instructed his officers to lead a rendition of the Army song.
Stephen offered counsel to the incoming leader of North Korea, and inquired of Austan Goolsbee whether his efforts to address societal issues left him weary.
Surveys indicate that a majority, 120 percent, do not believe the Iranian election was fraudulent, while Jim Rogers is advocating for a reduction in the carbon footprint of Duke Energy.
Sonia Sotomayor occupies a singular position within a select circle of women, a space where commentary is best left to others.
With a reluctant agreement reached regarding the acceptance of detainees from Guantanamo, Stephen secured an interview with the poet Paul Muldoon.
Stephen proposes a strategy of indiscriminate action, a method of striking at will until the hidden adversary is revealed. Meanwhile, Simon Schama has penned a historical account charting the trajectory of America's future.
David Kilcullen wages war through a strategy of localized engagement, effectively countering smaller guerrilla forces.
The Jonas Brothers consistently deliver compelling rock music, while Matthew Crawford finds fulfillment in practical, hands-on labor.
ABC dedicated its broadcast to Barack Obama, while Jim Fouratt sat down with a prominent figure in the movement surrounding gay shame.
Neil deGrasse Tyson strives to make the wonders of science approachable, inviting anyone curious enough to explore its depths.
Stephen pondered the question of whether the United States should fully embrace soccer, while Kevin Mattson argued that Jimmy Carter's contributions often went unnoticed.
With the Supreme Court now in recess, Nicholas Kristof offers his perspective on "It's Time to Learn From Frogs," following a journey that involved navigating five lanes of heavy traffic.
A new bill supporting renewable energy has been approved by Congress, while mountaineer Ed Viesturs confronts the inflated self-importance of Stephen.
With the commencement of Justice Sotomayor's confirmation hearings, economist and New York Times columnist Paul Krugman offers considerable insight on matters of finance.
Stephen proposed seeking a shift within Barney Frank's approach, then inquired of Leymah Gbowee regarding the location of Liberia.
A troubling development has emerged for individuals with port-wine stains, while Douglas Rushkoff offers a degree of absolution to both Jewish people and Freemasons.

A profound numbness resides within Stephen, a hollowness that seems impervious to feeling. Perhaps Ed Andrews would find a path to solvency by exploring the world of adolescent vampires in his writing.

Geoffrey Canada struggles to identify any community where white men experience disproportionate victimization, while Bob Park remains perplexed by the necessity of space exploration, arguing that robots offer a more efficient solution.

When Stephen delves into the matter of Acorn, he will embody the strength and enduring presence of an oak tree. Meanwhile, Aaron Carroll maintains that a universal healthcare system, funded by a single payer, would be the most appropriate m…

The clandestine history of the CIA's assassination program comes to light, alongside Chris Anderson's vision of an economy built on universal access.
The British government has revealed intentions to withdraw from a particular undertaking. Meanwhile, Tom Vilsack has withdrawn his candidacy from the presidential election. And Zev Chafets is maneuvering for a desired outcome by the holiday…

A recent examination of tasers might prove startling, while the Swedish band Movits! lends a hand to Stephen as he assembles his Ikea futon.

Born in the United States, Arianna Huffington deliberately developed an accent to project an image of belonging to a minority group.

In the grueling Tour de France, Lance Armstrong secured a third-place finish. Meanwhile, Kevin Baker has offered a commentary, suggesting that Barack Obama is emerging as a figure akin to Herbert Hoover.

Despite the absence of typical war movie trappings – the explosions, the deafening sound – Kathryn Bigelow’s *The Hurt Locker* is receiving widespread critical acclaim.

With considerable effort, President Obama secured funding for healthcare reform, while General Anthony Zinni offered praise for Stephen's efforts.

Kurt Andersen suggests that the current economic and health upheavals offer Americans a fleeting opportunity to reshape their priorities.

Kris Kobach advocates for addressing illegal immigration at the local level, while simultaneously proposing incentives for those who choose to enter the country through legal channels.

Stephen examines the films currently undermining the spirit of America, and he sits down with Meryl Streep to discuss her portrayal of Julia Child.

With Vladimir Putin once again commanding attention, Stephen conducts an interview with Barbara Boxer, his gaze marked by a palpable skepticism.

As Afghanistan braces for a day of defiant celebration – a "Bring Your Rocket Launcher to Work Day," as some are calling it – Jonathan Cohn offers an insightful analysis of the mounting healthcare crisis in the United States.

At gatherings across the country, Americans voice the sentiments of Glenn Beck, while Mark Johnson cultivates harmony through his music.

Glenn Beck has recently lost his corporate sponsors, while Mark Devlin has been employing enormous balloons to propel telescopes to unprecedented altitudes, nearing the edge of space.

The relentless pursuit of a story can drive individuals to any means, even accepting employment by a newspaper. In a different vein, Bill McKibben achieves a remarkable feat of environmentalism simply by minimizing his respiration during co…


In *Taking Woodstock*, Ang Lee finds a poignant beauty in the resilience of young people, their spirits undimmed by hardship. He portrays them with a hopeful optimism that shines through even in the midst of grime and weariness.

As the global population approaches seven billion, Chris Matthews offers insights into his documentary, "The Kennedy Brothers."

The contentious discussion surrounding healthcare persists, the MTV Video Music Awards provided a moment of startling revelation, and Cory Booker, in a notable instance of candor, acknowledged his role as the mayor of Newark.

With her CNN program, "Amanpour," Christiane Amanpour possesses a rare ability to draw American attention to global affairs. She has a knack for fostering a sense of connection to the wider world within her audience.

Tucker Carlson reported on the alleged indoctrination of American schoolchildren by Barack Obama, while also highlighting the influence of Muslim perspectives within educational textbooks. In other news, The Flaming Lips delivered a perform…

Stephen has revived a long-dormant U.S. military practice: the focused observation of goats. Meanwhile, Frank Bruni reflects on his journey to managing a tendency toward overeating, a challenge he confronts as a food critic for the New York…

Following the Senate's decision to permit firearms on trains, Shai Agassi advocates for a widespread shift to electric vehicles.

Amongst the various explorations of life undertaken by AJ Jacobs are journeys into devout adherence to biblical law, a persistent pursuit of logical reasoning, and a commitment to unflinching honesty.

Accusations of racism dog the Republican Party, a traditional holiday faces renewed scrutiny, and Ken Burns has turned his lens toward the nation's parks in a new documentary.

Sheryl WuDunn advocates for empowering women through access to loans and education as a crucial path toward alleviating poverty in developing countries.

A novel tobacco offering has emerged, prompting Matt Latimer to reflect on his time crafting speeches for the Bush administration.

Stephen reports progress on his space treadmill project, and intends to reduce Richard Dawkins' book to fragments of paper.

Francis explained to Stephen that the development of stem cell research needed time, and that the prospect of regrowing his crab claws was still distant.

President Obama advocated for an extended academic year, a proposition that seemingly culminated in Arne Duncan’s appointment as a mere administrative assistant.

The Mountain Goats deliver a rendition of "Psalms 40:2," taken from their album, *The Life of the World to Come*.

A groundbreaking surgical procedure has been developed by medical professionals, while cognitive scientist Alison Gopnik proposes that infants hold key insights into profound philosophical inquiries.

Glenn Beck faces a barrage of criticism from the press; Rush Limbaugh is reportedly considering a purchase of a professional football franchise; and Colin Beavan's work leaves virtually no discernible mark on the environment.

Stephen addressed the awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize to Barack Obama by the Norwegian committee, engaged in a game of tennis with James Blake, and discussed zombies with Sanjay Gupta.

Stephen fills his Twitter feed with observations on Miley Cyrus, engages in discussions about fetuses with David Javerbaum, and poses questions to Sylvia Earle regarding the importance of ocean conservation.

Stephen found himself increasingly incensed by the debate surrounding healthcare reform. He also engaged in a conversation about obesity with Amy Farrell, and sought counsel on matters of wisdom from the RZA.

Stephen asserted the superiority of mayonnaise as a condiment, inquired of Jerry Mitchell regarding the duties of a newspaper reporter, and presented his latest portrait.

Stephen voiced his reservations regarding Washington State, offering his support for your application while simultaneously expressing disagreement with the entirety of Cornel West's philosophical positions.

The Catholic Church extends a hand to those who have departed from its embrace, while Gail Collins offers her perspective on the contemporary American woman.

Stephen discovered the cause of the catastrophic failure in the world's largest particle accelerator and, in preparation for his upcoming interview with Brian Cox, spent time reviewing "Baby Einstein" tapes.

Stephen discussed his controversial methods of interrogation with Rosanne Cash, specifically detailing the use of music against detainees. He also recently shared insights on the popular television series "Teen Wolf" during a conversation w…

Stephen provides support for the American speedskating team, dissects Arnold Schwarzenegger’s morning meal, and engages in a debate with Nicholas Thompson regarding the conclusion of the Cold War.

Stephen finds himself at the forefront of a significant moment with the U.S. Speedskating team, reports on the apprehension of a gay couple on Mormon property, and urges Andrew Sullivan to acknowledge a misjudgment.

Stephen asserted Barack Obama's defeat, only to be drenched by Al Gore and then inquire of Harold Evans whether a career as a chimney sweep was on the cards for him.

Stephen addressed Canada directly with Joey Cheek's presence, unveiled Vaxaconda, and engaged in conversation with William Bratton regarding McGruff the Crime Dog.

Stephen posed the question to Mike Castle: why the impossibility of a marriage between man and fowl? He then lent his considerable influence to Katherine Reutter, securing her a gold medal. And in quiet conversation, he discussed art with T…

Stephen voiced his support for Barney Frank's stance on marijuana, expressed appreciation for a Taser XREP advertisement, and shared ice cream with Maria Shriver.

Stephen held a conviction that bankers were essentially divine representatives. He voiced sharp criticism of programs like "Sesame Street," and posed pointed questions to Christopher Caldwell, inquiring about the whereabouts of a Muslim pop…

Stephen acquired mayonnaise with funds derived from his Miracle Whip venture, reportedly capturing the viewership of Lou Dobbs and even shaving the head of Woody Harrelson.

Stephen offered Barack Obama guidance on diplomatic greetings, proposed a musical collaboration with Aerosmith, and engaged in architectural discourse with Paul Goldberger.

Stephen engaged in conversation with Marc Kielburger regarding the issue of child labor, later sharing a skateboarding session with Jackie Speier. He also sought an explanation from Malcolm Gladwell concerning a cartoon published in *The Ne…

Sarah Palin's 400-page memoir, "2012," has captivated global attention, while Norah Jones offers a glimpse into her renowned father, Indiana.

A bill proposing a tax on cosmetic surgery has been introduced in the Senate, while elsewhere, Elvis Costello performed "Cheap Reward" alongside Stephen.

Stephen engages in conversation with Dan Esty regarding the issue of global warming, then playfully challenges Joseph Cirincione with a game of "Sanction, Bomb, Marry?". He further draws comparisons between the experience of schooling and …

Stephen delves into the intricacies of a fictional neighborhood, engages in conversation about extraterrestrial interpretations of Jesus with Guy Consolmagno, and offers assistance to Sherman Alexie in preserving an element of Western herit…

Stephen offered a sharp critique of President Obama’s recent address, unveiled a novel device promising on-demand bowel relief, and voiced doubts regarding Craig Watson’s culpability.

Stephen reported on Tiger Woods’ car accident, attempted to qualify for the U.S. skeleton team, and interviewed Janet Napolitano regarding the color-coded national security threat levels.

Bill T. Jones recounts the ways in which Fela Kuti challenged the Nigerian government through his music.

Stephen provides Bernie Sanders with an opportunity to confront the malicious socialist narratives circulating about him, and engages in a conversation about the merits of public figures with Andy Schlafly.

Stephen cultivates an audience drawn to the peculiar, finds himself unexpectedly visited by Krampus, and engages in a pointed critique of Goldman Sachs alongside Matt Taibbi.

Stephen outlined Russia’s strategy for its campaign in Afghanistan, auditioned for a spot on the American bobsled team, and fabricated quotes for Lara Logan.

Stephen conducted an interview with a cardboard likeness of President Obama, signed a book on the leg of Katherine Reutter, and preemptively edited material intended for Snoop Dogg.

John Slattery deals in gold; Stephen recounts the tale of Treesus; and Alicia Keys delivers her celebrated song.

Stephen found himself offering encouragement to Tiger Woods, a fleeting image of Stephen King superimposed on his thoughts, and a vivid recollection of the playfully eccentric years spent with Tom Brokaw.

