The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert: Episode Featuring Alan Ritchson and Tamara Tunie

Release Date: February 24, 2025

Introduction and Arm Wrestling Fun

The episode kicks off with a playful interaction between host Stephen Colbert and guest Alan Ritchson. Alan engages in an arm-wrestling challenge with a partner, showcasing his friendly competitive spirit. This light-hearted segment sets an engaging tone for the episode.

• Alan Ritchson (02:04): "Please. Welcome to the Late Show. Alan Ritchson."
• Arm Wrestling Partner (02:15): "Just your strength against mine. Let's do this."

Deep Dive into "Reacher" and Its Global Appeal

Alan Ritchson delves into his role in the globally acclaimed series "Reacher," discussing why the character resonates with audiences worldwide. He attributes the show's success to its universal themes of justice and the satisfying portrayal of the protagonist taking swift action against wrongdoing.

• Alan Ritchson (02:37): "So good to be here. I enjoy the Reacher. It's a global hit."
• Arm Wrestling Partner (03:00): "We all want to kill bad guys, don't we?"

The conversation highlights how "Reacher" serves as a form of wish fulfillment for viewers, allowing them to envision a world where justice is immediate and effective.

• Arm Wrestling Partner (03:41): "It's wish fulfillment. We see what we want to see in the world through the lens of Reacher."

Stunt Work and Physical Demands

Alan and his arm-wrestling partner discuss the rigorous demands of performing stunts for the show. Alan shares insights into his commitment to performing his own stunts, emphasizing the collaborative process with his stunt double, Ryan Taran.

• Alan Ritchson (04:45): "Do you do your own stunts?"
• Arm Wrestling Partner (04:46): "I do. It's a process people don't understand."

They touch upon the physical toll of stunt work, with Alan admitting to injuries sustained over the years.

• Alan Ritchson (05:43): "Have you hurt yourself doing this?"
• Arm Wrestling Partner (05:45): "I've broken bones, yeah."

Personal Life and Balancing Fame

The discussion transitions to Alan’s personal life, including his family and how he balances his acting career with fatherhood. Alan humorously recounts how his children perceive his roles, often underestimating his on-screen toughness.

• Alan Ritchson (06:18): "What are you now?"
• Arm Wrestling Partner (06:20): "240 pounds. So I was, you know..."

He also touches on his long-term marriage, sharing light-hearted anecdotes about his relationship.

• Alan Ritchson (07:01): "What about your wife?"
• Arm Wrestling Partner (07:02): "She, too, doesn't care."

Introducing Tamara Tunie: A Journey Through Television and Theater

The episode smoothly transitions to introducing Tamara Tunie, a distinguished actress known for her roles in "Law & Order: SVU," "Better Call Saul," and the new CBS series "Beyond the Gates." Alan welcomes her to the show, and the conversation moves into her impressive career trajectory.

• Alan Ritchson (11:54): "Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome Tamara Tunie."

Tamara Tunie’s Broadway Beginnings

Tamara shares her first foray into Broadway, recounting her experience performing alongside the legendary Lena Horne. She narrates a challenging moment when an unexpected tonsil abscess jeopardized her debut, only to bounce back and secure her role, demonstrating resilience and passion for her craft.

• Tamara Tunie (13:12): "I was on the stage with the legendary Lena Horne when I was 22 years old."
• Tamara Tunie (14:30): "My mother was sitting front row center. We were having a good time."

Impact of "Law & Order: SVU" on Viewers and Career

Tamara discusses the profound impact her role as a medical examiner on "Law & Order: SVU" has had on viewers, particularly inspiring African American women to pursue careers in forensic science. She attributes this influence to the power of representation on television.

• Tamara Tunie (15:59): "My daughter is studying forensic science because of your role on the show."
• Tamara Tunie (16:27): "That's the power of television. That's the power of what we do."

Behind the Scenes: Growing Up in a Funeral Home

Drawing parallels between her upbringing and her role on "SVU," Tamara reveals that she grew up in a funeral home, which provided her with unique insights and comfort in handling prop bodies and forensic scenes on the show.

• Tamara Tunie (16:37): "I grew up in a funeral home. Both of my parents were morticians."
• Tamara Tunie (17:01): "By the time I reached my teenage years, I was actually helping in the funeral home."

"Beyond the Gates": Breaking Barriers in Daytime Television

Tamara expresses her enthusiasm for "Beyond the Gates," highlighting its significance as the first daytime drama in 25 years to center around an affluent African American family. She emphasizes the show's role in breaking the color barrier and shattering glass ceilings in the industry.

• Tamara Tunie (17:35): "It is the first daytime drama where the central family is African American."
• Tamara Tunie (17:38): "It's a glass ceiling-breaking show, and I'm so proud to be a part of it."

Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

As the episode wraps up, both Alan and Tamara reflect on their journeys in the entertainment industry, acknowledging the challenges and triumphs they've experienced. Tamara shares her gratitude for returning to daytime television and her network, CBS, reinforcing the importance of representation and diversity on screen.

• Tamara Tunie (18:14): "I used to watch with my mom back in the day."
• Tamara Tunie (18:41): "I'm returning to daytime, which is fantastic."

Alan extends his appreciation to Tamara for joining the show, concluding the episode on a high note with anticipation for the exciting developments in their respective projects.

• Alan Ritchson (19:10): "Well, I look forward to the mess. Thank you so much for being here."
• Tamara Tunie (19:12): "Thank you for having me."

Key Takeaways

• Representation Matters: Both Alan and Tamara highlight the importance of diverse representation in media, with Tamara specifically noting the inspiration her role has provided to young African American women.

• Behind the Scenes: The discussion sheds light on the physical demands of acting, particularly in action-packed roles like "Reacher," and the dedication required to perform stunts safely.

• Personal Resilience: Tamara’s story about overcoming a medical setback to perform on Broadway underscores the resilience needed in the entertainment industry.

• Breaking Barriers: "Beyond the Gates" marks a significant milestone in daytime television, emphasizing the ongoing effort to break racial and gender barriers in media.

This episode offers listeners an in-depth look into the lives and careers of Alan Ritchson and Tamara Tunie, blending humor, personal anecdotes, and insightful discussions about the entertainment industry and the impact of their work on audiences.