The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert Episode: Daniel Craig | "Discount Your Blessings"
Release Date: December 3, 2024

Overview

In this engaging episode of The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert, host Stephen Colbert delves into a mix of current events, political satire, and an insightful interview with acclaimed actor Daniel Craig. The episode seamlessly blends humor with sharp commentary, offering listeners a comprehensive view of topical issues and the entertainment industry.

Opening Monologue: Current Events and Political Satire

Thanksgiving and TSA Operations

Stephen Colbert kicks off the episode by referencing the aftermath of Thanksgiving, highlighting the record-breaking travel day managed by the TSA. He humorously critiques the TSA's focus on liquid restrictions, mocking the confiscation of items like ranch dressing.

"[00:59] Stephen Colbert: ...kids, you get to work on the Thousand Island. Does anyone have any celery?"

Joe Biden's Pardon of Hunter Biden

Colbert shifts to political satire, discussing President Joe Biden's controversial decision to pardon his son, Hunter Biden. He humorously speculates on the implications of such a broad pardon.

"[03:15] Stephen Colbert: ...This pardon proves that with less than two months to go, Joe is officially out of malarkeys. And by malarkeys, I mean I say he should go."

He further jabs at Biden's reversal on pledges not to use presidential powers for personal protection, questioning the trustworthiness of his promises.

Donald Trump's Cabinet Appointments

Transitioning to former President Donald Trump, Colbert critiques Trump's nomination of Cash Patel as FBI Director, highlighting Patel's lack of relevant experience and his antagonistic stance towards the FBI.

"[05:25] Stephen Colbert: ...Petal is a true Trump loyalist with very little management or law enforcement experience. And judging from what he said on this podcast, he's no fan of the FBI."

Colbert mocks Patel's comments about shutting down the FBI and turning it into a "museum of the deep state," emphasizing the irony and potential chaos such an appointment could entail.

"[05:16] Cash Patel: I'd shut down the FBI Hoover building on day one and reopening the next day as a museum of the deep state."

Pete Hegseth's Controversies

The monologue continues with a satirical take on Trump's pick for the Department of Defense, Pete Hegseth. Colbert humorously recounts Hegseth's alleged misconduct and personal issues, painting a picture of incompetence and scandal.

"[07:50] Stephen Colbert: ...a former employee complained that on an official tour he found Hegseth at a bar in the early morning hours, drunkenly chanting kill all Muslims. That is horrendous."

He also shares a mockery of Hegseth's mother's email, further lampooning the controversies surrounding the nominee.

"[08:48] Daniel Craig: Wow. Wow."

Guest Interview: Daniel Craig on "Queer" and "Knives Out"

Introduction and Banter

After a brief ad break, Stephen Colbert welcomes Daniel Craig, known for his roles in the James Bond franchise and the Knives Out series. The initial interaction is filled with playful banter, showcasing Colbert's comedic style.

"[12:23] Stephen Colbert: ...Ladies and gentlemen, my first guest tonight is an actor. You know, from the Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Knives out, and his five James Bond films."

Discussion on Daniel Craig's New Film "Queer"

Colbert delves into Craig's latest project, the film Queer, based on William S. Burroughs' novella. Craig discusses his approach to the character and his admiration for literary figures like Burroughs, Ginsberg, and Kerouac.

"[20:36] Daniel Craig: I did, but not really with Burroughs. Sort of Ginsberg and Kerouac were kind of like the. My ends there."

He explains his method for developing the character's accent, striving for authenticity without resorting to direct impressions.

"[22:21] Daniel Craig: I mean, you just pick some voices. He's Midwest, so I just picked a few famous people and listened to them."

Insights into the "Knives Out" Series

The conversation shifts to the Knives Out series, with Craig sharing his experiences working on the third installment. He praises the cast and the fun environment on set, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that makes the films enjoyable.

"[23:36] Stephen Colbert: ...you have as much fun as it looks like? Yeah, yeah, yeah."
"[23:57] Daniel Craig: You have to."

Colbert commends the old-fashioned fun of the series, noting Craig's ability to maintain a light-hearted atmosphere amidst complex narratives.

Personal Anecdotes and Light-Hearted Moments

Throughout the interview, Colbert and Craig engage in humorous exchanges, including a playful mishap with Craig's surname pronunciation and Colbert's exaggerated apology.

"[18:28] Stephen Colbert: That is subtle. That is a subtle difference. And I. And I. And I apologize."
"[19:11] Stephen Colbert: You can call me Colbert if you want."

These moments highlight the chemistry between host and guest, adding a relatable and entertaining layer to the discussion.

Final Thoughts on "Queer" and Upcoming Projects

As the interview wraps up, Craig encourages listeners to watch his new film and shares his enthusiasm for the theater production Oedipus he attended in London. Colbert wraps up the conversation by promoting the film's release and thanking Craig for his time.

"[25:30] Stephen Colbert: Queer is in theaters now. Daniel Craig, everybody."

Conclusion

This episode of The Late Show Pod Show masterfully balances topical humor with an engaging celebrity interview. Stephen Colbert's sharp wit and personable interviewing style provide listeners with both laughter and insightful commentary, making it a must-listen episode for fans and newcomers alike.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Stephen Colbert on TSA Restrictions:

  "[00:59] ...kids, you get to work on the Thousand Island. Does anyone have any celery?"

• Colbert on Joe Biden's Pardon:

  "[03:15] ...Joe is officially out of malarkeys."

• Cash Patel's FBI Comment:

  "[05:16] Cash Patel: I'd shut down the FBI Hoover building on day one..."

• Daniel Craig on Character Accent:

  "[22:21] I just picked a few famous people and listened to them."

• Colbert's Playful Apology:

  "[18:29] Daniel Craig: Yes, Daniel Craig."
  "[18:32] Stephen Colbert: Ooh, I hear the difference. That is subtle."

Additional Information

• Discount Offer: Late Show Pod Show listeners can use the discount code "TLS20" for 20% off all The Late Show with Stephen Colbert products on ParamountShop.com.
• Watching the Show: The Late Show with Stephen Colbert airs weeknights at 11:35/10:35c on CBS or can be streamed on Paramount+.

This detailed summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting key discussions, humorous exchanges, and the insightful interview with Daniel Craig. Whether you're a fan of late-night comedy, current events, or Hollywood interviews, this episode offers a rich and entertaining listening experience.