The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert

Episode: Anthony Carrigan | 'Superman'

Date: August 16, 2025

Episode Overview

This episode features Anthony Carrigan, celebrated for his role as NoHo Hank in HBO's "Barry" and now starring as Metamorpho in the new "Superman" film. The conversation explores Carrigan’s breakthrough in "Barry," his journey navigating Hollywood with alopecia, and his enthusiasm for joining the DC Universe. With Stephen Colbert’s signature mix of humor and warmth, the two discuss acting, personal challenges, comic book lore, and memorable behind-the-scenes stories.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

Anthony Carrigan’s Breakout and "Barry" Fame

• Carrigan recalls his first on-set moment on "Barry," realizing the character's catchphrase had caught on instantly:
  • “My first line was, you know, ‘hey, man.’…before I knew, I just heard people around the set just being like, ‘hey, man.’…so yeah, I was like. I was like, okay, this is cool. Maybe I'm not getting fired today.”
    — Anthony Carrigan (05:04–05:32)
• The joy of working with Bill Hader: Carrigan reflects on making Hader “break” during scenes:
  • “Bill wouldn't, like, he wouldn't be able to look at you… you would just see his shoulders go like that. And I knew I got him.”
    — Anthony Carrigan (06:03–06:24)
• Encountering devoted fans and peer recognition: Carrigan shares the surreal experience of meeting fans, including celebrities like Jeff Bridges:
  • “When Bill told me that [Jeff Bridges] was a fan of the show, I was so—I mean, I was, like, over the moon. And the way he said it, too…‘yeah, where'd you get that bald guy, man?’”
    — Anthony Carrigan (06:56–07:22)

Navigating Hollywood with Alopecia

• Facing industry prejudice and embracing self-acceptance:
  • “I found something within myself, this kind of self acceptance that I’d never had as a kid. And now, I mean, that's like my superpower.”
    — Anthony Carrigan (08:10–08:28)
  • Colbert expresses admiration, leading to a segue about superpowers and Carrigan’s new DC role.

Bringing Metamorpho to Life in "Superman"

• Introducing Metamorpho: Carrigan discusses playing the “element man,” a DC hero never before seen on screen:
  • “He can change himself into any element. Right. Including kryptonite…he’s got super power.”
    — Anthony Carrigan (09:42–09:50)
• Comic fandom and cast camaraderie: Carrigan shares being gifted Metamorpho’s first comic appearance by actor Steven Root:
  • “Right here is the first appearance of Metamorpho. And this was actually gifted to me by…Steven Root…when he found out that I booked the part.”
    — Anthony Carrigan (08:58–09:24)
• Teasing his movie introduction: The segment briefly describes the on-screen powers of Metamorpho and his complex heroism:
  • “He's a good guy in a compromised position, though.”
    — Anthony Carrigan (09:51–09:53)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

| Timestamp | Quote | Speaker | |-----------|-------|---------| | 05:04 | “My first line was, you know, ‘hey, man.’…before I knew, I just heard people around the set just being like, ‘hey, man.’” | Anthony Carrigan | | 06:24 | “Bill wouldn't… be able to look at you… you would just see his shoulders go like that. And I knew I got him.” | Anthony Carrigan | | 06:56 | “You don't know what to do. Jeff Bridges. Got to meet Jeff Bridges, you know…‘yeah, where'd you get that bald guy, man?’” | Anthony Carrigan | | 08:10 | “Fully get out. Yeah. You’re never gonna act again. You're not attractive anymore. You should stop. And this was when my hair was just really going.” | Anthony Carrigan | | 08:28 | “I found something within myself, this kind of self acceptance that I'd never had as a kid. And now, I mean, that's like my superpower…” | Anthony Carrigan | | 09:42 | “He can change himself into any element. Right. Including kryptonite.” | Anthony Carrigan | | 09:51 | “He's a good guy in a compromised position, though.” | Anthony Carrigan | | 10:26 | “We got hydrogen and deuterium and we got helium and…” | Anthony Carrigan (Joking in character) | | 10:31 | “Hey, bro.” | Anthony Carrigan (Joking in character) | | 10:36 | “He's doing something!” | Sidekick/Co-host (comic moment) |

Timestamps of Key Segments

• [04:02] – Introduction of Anthony Carrigan
• [05:04] – Carrigan on his first day on "Barry" and instant character catchphrases
• [05:48] – Working with Bill Hader & set anecdotes
• [06:35] – Experiencing fan reactions (and peer fandom)
• [07:26] – Discussing living and acting with alopecia
• [08:36] – Segue to playing Metamorpho in "Superman"
• [08:58] – Gift of Metamorpho’s comic by Steven Root
• [09:37] – What to expect from Metamorpho in the new film
• [10:26] – Comic on-air roleplay between Colbert and Carrigan

Episode Tone & Style

True to The Late Show’s ethos, the conversation is brisk, witty, and underscored by mutual respect and lighthearted banter. Carrigan’s candor about overcoming industry hardships with alopecia is both moving and empowering, while his infectious enthusiasm for comic books and new roles elevates the conversation with humor and authenticity.

For Listeners

This episode provides an engaging, behind-the-scenes look at breaking into Hollywood, thriving through personal adversity, and the fun of superhero storytelling. Carrigan’s relatable humor and Colbert’s deft hosting ensure a memorable, meaningful, and frequently hilarious episode for fans and newcomers alike.