Podcast Summary: The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert – Episode Featuring Fred Armisen

Episode Information:

• Title: Fred Armisen
• Release Date: August 9, 2025
• Host: Stephen Colbert
• Guest: Fred Armisen
• Description: Stephen Colbert engages in a lively conversation with Fred Armisen, exploring his recent projects, including his role in the hit Netflix series "Wednesday," and his unique creative endeavors, such as releasing an album of sound effects.

1. Welcome and Opening Remarks

Timestamp: [02:34 - 02:35]

Stephen Colbert warmly welcomes Fred Armisen back to "The Late Show Pod Show." He highlights Fred's impressive resume, including his work on "Saturday Night Live," "Portlandia," and his current role in Netflix's "Wednesday." Fred responds with enthusiasm, expressing his excitement to be back after his last appearance in 2016.

Notable Quote:

• Stephen Colbert: "The last time you were on was in 2016. This is like nine years ago." [02:35]
• Fred Armisen: "Wow. Yeah, yeah. I've just been kind of waiting in the wings." [02:39]

2. Recent Travels and Work in Ireland

Timestamp: [02:53 - 03:08]

Fred shares his recent experiences filming "Wednesday" in Ireland, specifically near Dublin. He expresses his love for the country and its culture, mentioning his fondness for dark beer and traditional Irish songs. The conversation touches on the challenges and perks of driving on the left side of the road, a nod to Fred's adaptability and sense of humor.

Notable Quotes:

• Fred Armisen: "We shot this Show Wednesday in Ireland." [02:54]
• Stephen Colbert: "Do you enjoy dark beer and songs about hard labor?" [03:05]
• Fred Armisen: "Yes. It's the only kind of music I like, but I taught myself to drive there a little bit on the left side of the road." [03:08]

3. Reflections on Sketch Comedy and "Portlandia"

Timestamp: [03:32 - 04:19]

Stephen reminisces about Fred's eight-season tenure on "Portlandia," applauding the longevity and success of the sketch show. Fred discusses his ongoing passion for sketch comedy, sharing ideas for new sketches involving characters like Kath and Dave. These characters exemplify propriety and attentiveness, particularly in settings like airplane safety demonstrations, blending humor with everyday scenarios.

Notable Quotes:

• Stephen Colbert: "That the last time you were here, it was for Portlandia... for how many seasons did you do that for?" [03:32]
• Fred Armisen: "We did eight. Eight seasons." [03:43]
• Fred Armisen: "There was one I was thinking we had these characters called Kath and Dave who did everything right. They're just really proper about everything." [03:53]

4. Introduction of Fred’s Sound Effects Album

Timestamp: [05:01 - 08:36]

Stephen brings up a unique headline from People magazine about Fred releasing an album of 100 sound effects. Initially skeptical, Stephen appreciates the added clarity in the headline and delves into the concept behind the album. Fred explains his inspiration, aiming to go beyond traditional Halloween sound effects by incorporating everyday sounds like bottles breaking and doors closing. Together, they humorously demonstrate a few sound effects from the album, including "Romanian rock audience stomping for an encore" and "car door closing at a car rental."

Notable Quotes:

• Stephen Colbert: "Fred Armisen is releasing an album of 100 sound effects. Yes. You read that, right?" [05:07]
• Fred Armisen: "Yeah, that's not a prop. I was thinking about those Halloween sound effect albums, then I sort of missed them." [05:55]
• Stephen Colbert: "We are done. This is so useful. I can see putting this album on at a party." [07:11]
• Fred Armisen: "Yes, September. It's available in September. Make a great Christmas present... Make a great Halloween present, actually." [08:21]

5. Discussion on "Wednesday" and Playing Uncle Fester

Timestamp: [08:36 - 10:02]

The conversation shifts to Fred's role as Uncle Fester in the Netflix series "Wednesday." Stephen inquires about Fred's approach to developing the character, given Uncle Fester's mysterious and beloved status within the Addams Family universe. Fred shares his preparation process, including watching the original TV shows and studying Christopher Lloyd's portrayal to honor the character's legacy. He also delves into his personal interpretation of Uncle Fester, highlighting the character's adventurous spirit, love for mischief, and enjoyment of life "in the underground."

Notable Quotes:

• Stephen Colbert: "Is like, I never thought of the Addams Family as having, like, backstories. They're just. The Addams Family." [09:08]
• Fred Armisen: "I really did do this on my phone. I watched the original TV show with Jackie Coogan... I just tried to honor the tradition of the role." [09:12]
• Fred Armisen: "I like that he's got, like, all these passports. He just sort of travels everywhere... He's enjoying life in the underground." [09:38]

6. Closing Remarks and Season Tease

Timestamp: [10:02 - 10:26]

As the episode wraps up, Stephen teases the upcoming second season of "Wednesday," slated to premiere the following day on Netflix. He playfully mentions Fred's hidden talent as a drummer, hinting at a possible performance that doesn't materialize during the episode. The hosts exchange light-hearted banter, emphasizing the camaraderie and mutual respect between them.

Notable Quotes:

• Stephen Colbert: "Season 2 of Wednesday premieres tomorrow on Netflix." [10:08]
• Stephen Colbert: "He's gonna take us out. We'll be right back with J.B. Pritzker." [10:26]
• Fred Armisen: "I'll do it." [10:26]

7. Conclusion

Throughout the episode, Stephen Colbert and Fred Armisen engage in a dynamic and entertaining dialogue, seamlessly transitioning between discussions of Fred's current projects and his creative side ventures. The conversation is enriched with humor, personal anecdotes, and insightful reflections on the craft of comedy and acting. Notable highlights include Fred's innovative approach to sound design and his dedication to embodying iconic characters with depth and authenticity.

For listeners who haven't tuned in, this episode offers a comprehensive glimpse into Fred Armisen's multifaceted career, his passion for creativity, and his contributions to contemporary comedy and television.

Additional Information:

• Exclusive Offer: Late Show Pod Show listeners can use discount code "TLS20” for 20% off all The Late Show with Stephen Colbert products on ParamountShop.com.
• Watch Live: "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" airs weeknights at 11:35/10:35c on CBS and is available for streaming on Paramount+.