The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert
Episode: Hugh Jackman | Winter Blunderland
Release Date: December 19, 2025
Episode Overview
This festive episode of The Late Show Pod Show features host Stephen Colbert with special guest Hugh Jackman, promoting his new film Song Sung Blue. The conversation blends Colbert’s razor-sharp political satire with Jackman’s trademark charm and reflections on his career, creative inspiration, and love of theater. The show takes a humorous look at current events, pop culture, and the enduring power of holiday traditions. The episode ends on a musical high, with Jackman delivering a heartwarming version of “Sweet Caroline” with a twist.
Key Discussion Points & Insights
1. Stephen Colbert's Opening Monologue: Political Satire & Trump Coverage
[03:55–13:20]
- Trump’s Uninspired Speech:
- Colbert lampoons Donald Trump’s latest public address, comparing it to historic presidential moments and mocking its lack of substance and charisma.
- Quote:
“I think we’ll all remember where we were when we did not watch Donald Trump’s speech last night.” — Stephen Colbert [03:57]
- Trump’s speech is described as a retread of his “greatest hits,” focusing on hot-button issues without new substance.
- Even Trump supporters decried the speech as “panicked” and lacking energy.
- Trump Kennedy Center Scandal:
- Breaking news: Trump’s hand-picked board has reportedly renamed the Kennedy Center after himself, causing backlash and confusion.
- Colbert jokes about the absurdity and impossibility of the move:
“He can't have his name on a memorial. He’s alive. Or so his doctors claim.” — Stephen Colbert [08:57]
- Epstein Files Release:
- Colbert notes the looming legal deadline for the DOJ to release the Epstein files, poking fun at the idea of accountability for the powerful.
- Quote:
“Don’t forget to leave Santa some cookies and a barf bag.” — Stephen Colbert [10:41]
- Oscars Move to YouTube:
- Satirical announcement about the Oscars shifting to YouTube from traditional TV.
- Quote:
“Back then the show was famously hosted by cocaine.” — Stephen Colbert [12:17]
2. Hugh Jackman Interview: Holiday Traditions, Theater, and Music
[15:30–19:17; 20:31–29:46]
a. Holiday Traditions and Upbringing
- Jackman fondly recalls Australian Christmases, “hot” weather, and his tradition of watching Elf, Home Alone, and Singin’ in the Rain.
- Colbert shares his own family tradition of watching Iron Giant.
- Quote:
“I was given the VHS of Singing in the Rain on Christmas when I was 18. So I watch that every year. ‘Cause it’s a perfect movie.” — Hugh Jackman [17:14]
b. Together Theater Company & Accessibility in the Arts
- Jackman explains the mission of his new theater company, “Together,” which aims to make theater intimate and affordable.
- Performances are held in a small venue, focusing on the craft with minimal sets and affordable tickets (quarter of tickets free, another quarter at $35).
- Shows are recorded for Audible, increasing accessibility.
- Quote:
“We do it in a relatively small space... It’s really focusing on the word, the play, and the actor. And I wanted to take away all the obstacles, so I really wanted to make it affordable for people.” — Hugh Jackman [17:57]
c. Transformative Haircuts for Roles
- The duo laugh over Jackman’s iconic hair in various films (e.g., Chappie, Pan, Van Helsing, and Wolverine).
- Jackman’s favorite: shaving his head for Pan.
- Colbert shares his own shaved head story (on air, for the troops in Baghdad).
- Memorable Moment:
“My favorite of that was Pan. Everyone should do that once in your life—jump in the ocean with a shaved head.” — Hugh Jackman [22:15]
d. New Film: Song Sung Blue
- Jackman stars in Song Sung Blue, a film based on the real-life story of Milwaukee performers Lightning and Thunder—a Neil Diamond interpreter and a Patsy Cline impersonator.
- The film is about working-class dreams, resilience, and enduring love.
- Quote:
“...for all the left turns, they show up for each other, they rescue each other, and their whole community comes together. It’s just a beautiful true love story... hopefully this time of year in the holidays, gives everyone a lift.” — Hugh Jackman [24:22]
e. Love of Neil Diamond & Karaoke with the Legend
- Jackman relives meeting Neil Diamond, who granted full catalog rights for the film and even sang karaoke with Jackman and Kate Hudson.
- Quote:
“I will never forget it—Neil Diamond is sitting at the head of this family, he goes, ‘You want to do karaoke?’ I’m like, hell yeah.” — Hugh Jackman [26:46]
f. What Makes "Sweet Caroline" So Universal
- Colbert and Jackman discuss the song’s international appeal across sports and generations.
- Quote:
“You go to Germany, you go to the races in Australia, 120,000 people are singing it as though they’ve made it up... you can’t even say the words without wanting to sing it.” — Hugh Jackman [27:34]
Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments
- “You monologue the best.” — Hugh Jackman (singing to Colbert, during “Sweet Caroline” sendup) [28:52]
- Jackman changes lyrics for Colbert in a musical tribute, blending sincerity with playful humor.
- The episode ends with festive camaraderie and Jackman’s enthusiasm for Song Sung Blue.
Important Timestamps
| Timestamp | Segment/Highlight | |-----------|---------------------------------------------------------------| | 03:55 | Colbert opens political monologue & Trump’s awkward speech | | 09:29 | Trump Kennedy Center renaming ridicule | | 10:38 | Upcoming DOJ Epstein files deadline satirized | | 12:11 | Oscars moving to YouTube, broadcast nostalgia | | 15:30 | Hugh Jackman introduction and interview begins | | 17:00 | Holiday movie traditions | | 17:47 | “Together” Theater Company—affordable, accessible theater | | 20:43 | The Internet buzz about Jackman’s film roles, hair | | 22:15 | Jackman on shaving his head for a role | | 23:21 | Discussion of Song Sung Blue: the story and inspiration | | 24:46 | Neil Diamond’s influence and granting music rights | | 25:51 | Jackman on karaoke night at Neil Diamond’s house | | 27:31 | Why “Sweet Caroline” resonates globally | | 28:52 | Jackman’s “Sweet Caroline” homage to Colbert |
Tone & Style
The episode’s tone is lively, witty, and festive—balancing political satire, celebrity banter, and end-of-year warmth. Colbert’s irreverence meets Jackman’s affable energy, delivering a feel-good exploration of performance, tradition, and universal songs as a balm for complicated times.