Summary of "Nathan Lane | Dow In The Dumps" Episode of The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert

Release Date: March 12, 2025
Podcast: The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert
Guest: Nathan Lane
Episode Title: Dow In The Dumps

Introduction and Economic Commentary

Stephen Colbert opens the episode by addressing the current economic turmoil, highlighting the significant decline in the Dow Jones Industrial Average. He humorously attempts to reassure listeners amidst the chaos but quickly pivots to the grim reality:

"Yesterday, the Dow slipped on Trump's tariffs and fell down an elevator shaft. And today, it kept bonking its head on the way down, plunging more than 400 points in the last three weeks. In total, the stock market has lost $4 trillion in value, and experts now say the risk of a recession is 40%."
(00:52)

Colbert criticizes the administration's handling of the economy, particularly targeting former President Donald Trump's tariff policies and their impact on trade with Canada.

Tesla and Elon Musk's Downfall

A significant portion of the episode delves into the struggles of Elon Musk and his company, Tesla. Colbert satirizes Musk's financial losses and public image:

"Yesterday alone, Musk lost more than $16 billion. Come on. Wow."
(06:36)

He mocks Musk's attempts to deflect blame, referencing Musk's use of a Monty Python quote:

"always look on the bright side of life... I fart in your gender direction. Your mother was a hamster."
(10:04)

Colbert also explores the backlash against Tesla owners, including instances of hostility and vandalism, painting a picture of a brand in disarray.

Political Satire: Trump's Intervention

The discussion shifts to Donald Trump's involvement in the Tesla boycott, with Colbert lampooning Trump's efforts to salvage the faltering brand:

"Trump personally fought the Tesla boycott today. He had him line up five Teslas in the White House driveway so Trump and Elon could shoot a car commercial on government property."
(09:39)

Colbert sarcastically praises Trump's commitment, further emphasizing the absurdity of the situation.

Public Health and RFK Jr.'s Misconceptions

Transitioning from economic issues, Colbert addresses RFK Jr.'s misguided statements linking a measles outbreak to poor diet:

"RFK Jr. described vaccination as a personal choice. Yes, public health is every man for himself."
(20:05)

He debunks these claims with factual information about measles transmission and vaccination efficacy, ridiculing the misinformation spread by public figures.

Interview with Nathan Lane

Reunion and Personal Anecdotes

Nathan Lane, the guest of the episode, joins Colbert to discuss his latest projects and reminisce about past experiences. Their friendly banter sets a warm tone for the interview:

"It's always a little odd to run into a big time talk show host like yourself in the real world, you know?"
(16:11)

Discussing Broadway and Acting

Lane shares heartfelt memories of working with the legendary Gene Hackman on The Birdcage, highlighting Hackman's versatility and brilliance:

"He could do comedy or drama beautifully. And he was such a smart actor."
(19:18)

He recounts a specific scene where he and Hackman dance and sing together, emphasizing the camaraderie and professional respect they shared.

Promotion of "Mid Century Modern" Sitcom

A major focus of the interview is Lane's new sitcom, Mid Century Modern, set to premiere on Hulu. Colbert engages Lane in promoting the show, eliciting humorous and enthusiastic responses:

"March 28, all 10 episodes drop. As the kids say, same time. Yes, it's created by the man who created Will and Grace, David Cohan and Max Muchnik."
(25:00)

Lane describes the show as a contemporary take on the "Gay Golden Girls," focusing on a group of older gay men forming a chosen family, providing insight into the show's themes and characters.

Humorous Exchanges and Behind-the-Scenes Insights

Throughout the interview, Colbert and Lane share witty exchanges that offer a glimpse into their rapport and behind-the-scenes moments:

"Matt Bomer smells like the unattainable. Like the fresh baked cookies in first class when you're riding in coach."
(26:32)

These light-hearted moments add depth to the conversation, making the summary engaging and relatable.

Conclusion and Final Remarks

Colbert wraps up the episode by reiterating the premiere date of Mid Century Modern and encouraging listeners to watch the show:

"Mid century modern premieres March 28 on Hulu. It's Nathan Lane, everybody."
(28:04)

He also promotes additional content available on The Late Show YouTube channel, inviting listeners to engage further with the show's offerings.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Stephen Colbert (00:52):
  "Yesterday, the Dow slipped on Trump's tariffs and fell down an elevator shaft... the stock market has lost $4 trillion in value, and experts now say the risk of a recession is 40%."

• Nathan Lane (16:11):
  "It's always a little odd to run into a big time talk show host like yourself in the real world, you know?"

• Stephen Colbert (06:36):
  "Yesterday alone, Musk lost more than $16 billion. Come on. Wow."

• Nathan Lane (19:18):
  "He could do comedy or drama beautifully. And he was such a smart actor."

• Stephen Colbert (25:00):
  "March 28, all 10 episodes drop. As the kids say, same time."

Final Thoughts

This episode of The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert masterfully blends sharp political and economic satire with engaging celebrity interviews. Stephen Colbert's dynamic hosting, combined with Nathan Lane's charm and humor, provides listeners with both insightful commentary and delightful entertainment. The discussion spans serious topics like the economy and public health misinformation while interweaving light-hearted moments and promotions for upcoming television projects. This balanced approach ensures that the episode remains informative, entertaining, and accessible to both regular listeners and newcomers alike.