Podcast Summary: The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert
Episode: Billy Crystal (Extended) | Unusual Suspect
Release Date: December 10, 2024
Host: Stephen Colbert (CBS)
Guest: Billy Crystal
Platform: Paramount+
Introduction
In the premier episode of the FBI-themed segment on The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert, host Stephen Colbert masterfully blends sharp political satire with heartfelt conversation. The episode, titled "Billy Crystal (Extended) | Unusual Suspect," features a mix of topical humor, insightful commentary, and an engaging interview with the legendary comedian and actor Billy Crystal. This summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting key discussions, notable quotes, and the natural flow between segments.
Monologue Highlights
Breaking News and Satirical Commentary
Stephen Colbert opens the episode with a humorous take on a high-profile arrest related to the tragic shooting of United Healthcare's CEO. Instead of revealing the suspect's name, Colbert cleverly dubs him "Guido Casserole" [00:48], poking fun at the seriousness of the situation while maintaining a comedic tone.
"Now this event, this thing, this could be the end of the massive manhunt that began last Wednesday just blocks from this theater in midtown Manhattan and led authorities to today's arrest in Altoona, Pennsylvania. Classic bad guy mistake." [00:52]
He continues to mock the suspect's attempt to evade capture by fleeing to a town with an amusing name, emphasizing the inevitability of law enforcement catching up.
International Affairs with a Twist
Transitioning to international news, Colbert addresses the overthrow of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad by rebel forces. He humorously critiques the rebels' actions, such as riding on a torn-down statue of Assad’s father.
"The rebels are a group called Hayat Tahrir Al Sham that was formerly linked to Al Qaeda, but since 2016, has been working to distance itself from its extremist roots." [03:30]
Colbert’s satire extends to pondering the future stability of Syria under new leadership, infusing geopolitical commentary with his signature wit.
Political Satire and Current Events
Colbert delves into President-elect Trump's controversial statements about pardoning insurrectionists involved in the January 6th Capitol attack. He parodies Trump's intentions by imagining a buddy comedy titled "Buffalo Hunter," where the protagonists bond over presidential pardons.
"Buffalo Hunter. Trump explained why it's right for him to pardon the people who tried to overthrow our government." [06:30]
He further lampoons Trump’s visit to Notre Dame Cathedral and the subsequent absurdity of attributing fragrances to political figures.
"Trump doesn't just want to pardon criminals who attacked our government. He also wants to arrest the people who investigated the crime." [07:30]
Domestic Issues and Food Regulations
Addressing domestic topics, Colbert humorously discusses the FDA’s move to ban red food dye, imagining the public's outrage over beloved products like Pez and chewing gum.
"FDA, you can't take away our food dye. For this is America. We fought and died for these freedoms." [10:36]
He playfully ties the color symbolism to national pride, blending humor with a relatable topic.
Interview with Billy Crystal
Warm Welcome and Nostalgia
Stephen Colbert warmly welcomes Billy Crystal back to the show, highlighting his remarkable career spanning nearly five decades.
"Bill Clinton was on here a couple of weeks ago, and I just found out that right after I interviewed him for practically the entire show." [14:15]
Crystal shares an amusing anecdote about guest hosting for Johnny Carson in 1986, describing his nervousness and interactions with legendary figures like Howard Cosell.
"Howard had a variety show called Saturday Night Live before Saturday Night Live with Howard right in this theater." [16:17]
Behind the Scenes of Classic Moments
Billy recounts his first guest appearance, revealing the pressures and unexpected emotional moments of live television. He narrates a heartfelt encounter with Howard Cosell, emphasizing the challenges of maintaining composure under pressure.
"Howard was crying, and he's a little looped. I said, 'Howard, what's wrong?'... He falls into my arms." [17:57]
New Projects and Creative Process
The conversation shifts to Crystal’s latest project, the Apple TV series "Before," a horror drama inspired by his grandmother’s audio tapes and the concept of past lives. Crystal delves into the show's genesis and creative evolution, providing listeners with an intimate look into his artistic process.
"It's a very circuitous route to getting to what Before is. My grandma made these audio tapes about her life and how the family came to America." [25:02]
He discusses collaborating with Oscar-winning writer Eric Roth and the influence of books like Life Before Life and Search for Bridie Murphy on the show's development.
"We weren't getting anywhere with this hundred-year-old guy thing. I said, what if he's not 100? What if he's 8?" [25:47]
Personal Reflections and Shared Experiences
Colbert and Crystal connect over personal stories, particularly the anxieties surrounding parenthood. Crystal shares his fears when his daughter was born, paralleling Colbert’s own experiences.
"When they handed me my daughter when she was first born... I was a substitute teacher and handed this eight-pound, four-ounce baby girl." [22:26]
Colbert empathizes, revealing his own challenges during his daughter's birth.
"I have a similar feeling. When my daughter was born, I was unemployed." [23:05]
Classic Film Discussion
The duo reminisces about Crystal’s iconic film, When Harry Met Sally, debating favorite moments and lines. Crystal highlights memorable scenes, adding depth to his reflections on his illustrious career.
"You made a woman meow. And I just can't believe how dumb that is. And I love it." [29:08]
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
-
Stephen Colbert on Suspect Naming:
"So for the rest of this monologue, just say his name is comically close to Guido Casserole." [00:48] -
Trump's Pardoning Promise Parody:
"We're gonna look at individual cases everywhere." [06:18] -
Billy Crystal on Parenthood Fears:
"I was handed this eight-pound, four-ounce, beautiful little girl... What's my life gonna be like?" [22:26] -
Billy Crystal on Acting Experience:
"This is the most extraordinary experience as an actor. To play because I was him." [28:14] -
When Harry Met Sally Favorite Line:
"You made a woman meow." [29:08]
Conclusion
This extended episode of The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert seamlessly integrates sharp political and social satire with a heartfelt and engaging interview featuring Billy Crystal. Colbert’s ability to navigate between topical humor and sincere conversation provides a well-rounded and entertaining listening experience. Billy Crystal’s reflections on his career and personal insights add depth to the episode, making it a standout installment for both longtime fans and new listeners alike.
For those interested in more clips and exclusive content, Colbert encourages visiting The Late Show YouTube channel and streaming The Late Show with Stephen Colbert on Paramount+.
End of Summary