The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert

Episode: David Oyelowo | Constitu-Shunned
Release Date: April 16, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert, host Stephen Colbert engages in a thoughtful and engaging conversation with acclaimed actor and producer David Oyelowo. The discussion delves into Oyelowo's portrayal of historical figures, his latest projects, and his perspectives on current societal issues. Interwoven with Colbert's characteristic humor and sharp commentary, the episode offers listeners both insightful dialogue and entertaining moments.

Monologue and Social Commentary

Constitutional Crisis and Immigration Enforcement

Stephen Colbert opens the episode with a satirical monologue addressing the ongoing constitutional crisis related to immigration enforcement under the Trump administration. He highlights the controversial case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland father wrongfully deported to El Salvador despite a Supreme Court order preventing his deportation.

Stephen Colbert [04:14]: "There you see the Trump administration defying the Supreme Court. And there, there, there's your constitutional crisis. It's a failure of checks and balances."

Colbert criticizes the administration's actions as an blatant disregard for judicial authority and underscores the gravity of sending American citizens abroad without due process.

Harvard's Defiance Against Government Mandates

Colbert shifts focus to the Trump administration's attempts to impose restrictive measures on private universities, specifically targeting Harvard. He humorously outlines the administration's demands, such as shutting down diversity programs and conducting exhaustive plagiarism checks on faculty.

Stephen Colbert [08:05]: "The demands the government made of Harvard were ridiculous... Any students registered for Power to the People, Black power, radical feminism, and gay liberation will now find themselves enrolled into Intro to Sudoku."

He commends Harvard's steadfast refusal to comply, emphasizing the institution's commitment to maintaining academic independence and constitutional rights.

Stephen Colbert [09:52]: "Now you've just got the rest of us because you just got rejected by Harvard."

Reflection on Authoritarianism

Colbert uses humor to reflect on the broader implications of authoritarian governance, drawing parallels to historical and fictional dictatorships. He emphasizes the importance of institutions like the Supreme Court and the United States Marshals Service in upholding the rule of law.

Stephen Colbert [07:55]: "We’re not on our way to a dictatorship. We’re on the ship with old tater Dick."

Interview with David Oyelowo

Revisiting Selma and Personal Reflections

David Oyelowo joins Colbert to discuss his iconic role as Martin Luther King Jr. in the film Selma. Reflecting on the 60th anniversary of the Selma marches, Oyelowo shares his emotional journey revisiting Selma ten years after filming.

David Oyelowo [13:42]: "It was bittersweet, to be honest. It was 10 years ago since we shot the film... One of the things that really broke my heart was the state of the Voting Rights Museum... which felt symbolic of certain things that we're dealing with."

He describes a poignant moment where he watched the film with Martin Luther King III, highlighting the full-circle experience and the enduring legacy of King's work.

David Oyelowo [15:27]: "We did. Yeah. Yeah."

Meeting Civil Rights Icons

Oyelowo recounts his unforgettable encounter with legends Sidney Poitier and Harry Belafonte at the Governor's Awards in Los Angeles. He reflects on the significance of meeting these figures who have profoundly influenced civil rights and his own career.

David Oyelowo [19:05]: "I was terrified about this, because my character actually disparages Sidney Poitier in the film... But he was just so complimentary, and he was like, Harry, come over. And then they were taking this photograph with me."

Breaking Barriers in Shakespearean Theatre

The conversation shifts to Oyelowo's groundbreaking role as Henry VI with The Royal Shakespeare Company, where he became the first Black actor to portray an English king in a major Shakespearean production. He shares personal insights about his family's initial skepticism and the proud moment when his father witnessed his performance alongside Prince Charles.

David Oyelowo [20:47]: "We started at 10:30 in the morning with part one and went through to 10:30 at night for Henry VI, part three... He was so blown away by these circumstances."

Exploring Government Cheese

Oyelowo introduces his new Apple TV series, Government Cheese, where he plays Hampton Chambers, a man reintegrating into society after incarceration. The show navigates themes of redemption, family dynamics, and personal growth.

David Oyelowo [22:37]: "I play Hampton Chambers in Government Cheese... His manifests in really surreal ways. And God has given him this invention which is a self sharpening drill."

A clip from the show illustrates Hampton's attempts to reconnect with his family during a fishing trip, showcasing the blend of humor and emotional depth that the series promises.

David Oyelowo [23:22]: "Wow."

Closing Remarks

As the interview concludes, Colbert and Oyelowo share light-hearted moments, reinforcing the camaraderie and mutual respect between host and guest. Oyelowo expresses gratitude for the opportunity to discuss his work and the importance of storytelling in addressing societal issues.

Stephen Colbert [24:09]: "Gotta win, gotta win, gotta win."

David Oyelowo [24:15]: "Always great to see you."

Conclusion

This episode of The Late Show Pod Show masterfully balances Stephen Colbert's incisive political commentary with a meaningful and engaging interview featuring David Oyelowo. Through discussions on constitutional matters, educational independence, and Oyelowo's illustrious career, listeners are treated to a rich tapestry of humor, insight, and inspiration. The episode serves both as an entertaining and enlightening listen for fans of the show and newcomers alike.

Notable Quotes:

• Stephen Colbert [04:14]: "There you see the Trump administration defying the Supreme Court. And there, there, there's your constitutional crisis. It's a failure of checks and balances."

• Stephen Colbert [08:05]: "The demands the government made of Harvard were ridiculous... Any students registered for Power to the People, Black power, radical feminism, and gay liberation will now find themselves enrolled into Intro to Sudoku."

• David Oyelowo [13:42]: "It was bittersweet, to be honest. It was 10 years ago since we shot the film... One of the things that really broke my heart was the state of the Voting Rights Museum..."

• David Oyelowo [19:05]: "I was terrified about this, because my character actually disparages Sidney Poitier in the film... But he was just so complimentary, and he was like, Harry, come over."

• David Oyelowo [22:37]: "I play Hampton Chambers in Government Cheese... His manifests in really surreal ways. And God has given him this invention which is a self sharpening drill."

This summary encapsulates the essence of the episode, providing a comprehensive overview while highlighting key moments and quotes for a well-rounded understanding of the content.