The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert – Episode Summary (June 11, 2025)

In the June 11, 2025 episode of The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert, host Stephen Colbert delivers a vibrant and engaging discussion covering a range of topical issues before delving into an insightful interview with Emmy Award-winning actor Colman Domingo. This summary encapsulates the key points, notable quotes, and overarching themes of the episode, providing a comprehensive overview for those who haven't listened.

I. Stephen Colbert’s Opening Monologue

Stephen Colbert kicks off the episode with his signature wit, addressing current events with sharp humor and incisive commentary.

A. Papal Pop Culture and Celebrity Collaborations

• Pope Leo's White Sox Hat: Colbert humorously notes, "...Pope Leo rocked a White Sox hat at the Vatican, proving that the first American pontiff truly is a Sox fan." ([04:05])

B. Los Angeles Protests and Law Enforcement

• ICE Raids and Protests: Highlighting ongoing protests in Los Angeles due to aggressive ICE raids, Colbert remarks, "Tonight's Soul Chamber music concert has been canceled. Thank goodness. We must keep these chamber musicians off our streets." ([05:20])
• Mayor Karen Bass’s Statement: Colbert quotes Mayor Bass: "When I look at some of the footage... the vandalism and the protest... is taking place in several streets, individual streets, in the downtown area." ([05:20])

C. National Guard and ICE Operations

• Trump’s Military Plans: Addressing President Donald Trump’s assertions, Colbert cites Trump stating, "We're going to have troops everywhere. We're not going to let this happen to our country." ([08:31])
• Critique of Fort Bragg Renaming: Colbert satirizes Trump’s initiative to restore Confederate-named forts, noting, "Same name, but insane. Welcome, troops, to Fort Lee. Not Robert E. Lee, Sara Lee." ([12:07])

D. ICE Raid in Omaha

• Impact on Meat Plant: Detailing a recent ICE raid at Glen Valley meat production plant in Omaha, Colbert comments, "Of the roughly 140 workers... an estimated 75 to 80 people were detained. That's over half their workforce." ([09:32])

II. Interview with Colman Domingo

The episode transitions to a guest segment featuring Colman Domingo, an acclaimed actor recognized for his roles in Euphoria, Rustin, and Sing Sing. The conversation spans his current projects, creative processes, and reflections on historical figures.

A. Discussing “Lights Out, Nat King Cole”

• Play Overview: Domingo describes the play as "a dark night of the soul for Nat King Cole... deconstructing an American icon." ([15:25])
• Colbert’s Inquiry on Emotional Depth: Colbert asks, "Did Nat King Cole have a dark Night of the soul? We all did." prompting Domingo to reflect on universal artistic struggles. ([15:37])

B. Upcoming Film “Unforgettable”

• Biopic Insights: Domingo elaborates on his film "Unforgettable", portraying Nat King Cole, and shares his thoughts on how his voice complements Cole’s legacy. ([16:06])

C. Impact of Angus's Passing on Euphoria Season 3

• Production Delays and Tributes: Addressing the challenges faced during the filming of Euphoria's third season following Angus's death, Domingo states, "It's beautiful and bittersweet because we didn't all come together because we lost Angus." ([19:43])

D. “Four Seasons” Series on Netflix

• Adapting the 1981 Film: Domingo discusses his role in the series "Four Seasons", based on the classic Alan Alda film, highlighting nostalgic elements and modern twists. ([20:19])
• Cameo Appearances: He mentions appearances by legends like Alan Alda and Rita Moreno, enhancing the show's depth and appeal. ([21:07])

E. Directing Philosophy and Organization

• Comparing Directing to Party Planning: Domingo shares his approach to directing, likening it to organizing a successful party: "It's about how do I empower a group of people to go on this journey to create something that was never there before." ([22:04])

III. Concluding Remarks

As the interview wraps up, Stephen Colbert praises Domingo's multifaceted talents and contributions to the arts. He encourages listeners to explore Domingo's current projects, including Four Seasons on Netflix and Lights Out, Nat King Cole at the New York Theater Workshop.

Notable Quotes:

• “We shall never surrender. So just say Nadolf to Adolph.” – Stephen Colbert ([08:16])
• “When you're young and in love, it's beyond your control. You can't help it.” – Colman Domingo ([14:01])
• “Director Colman Domingo knows how to throw a good party. And that's what you need as a good director.” – Stephen Colbert ([22:11])

This episode of The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert skillfully blends humor with poignant discussions, offering listeners both entertainment and thoughtful insights into current events and the creative endeavors of Colman Domingo.