Podcast Summary: The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert Featuring Sabrina Carpenter (Extended) Release Date: December 16, 2024

Introduction

In this extended episode of The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert, host Stephen Colbert welcomes Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Sabrina Carpenter. Colbert sets the stage by highlighting Sabrina's impressive six Grammy nominations, including Best New Artist, Best Pop Vocal Album, Best Pop Solo Performance, Record of the Year, and Song of the Year.

Grammy Nominations and Sabrina's Reactions

Stephen Colbert opens the conversation by congratulating Sabrina on her six Grammy nominations, stating, “You got all the Grammy nominations. As I said, I thought we should kick off with a little toast to that” ([02:40]). He offers her an espresso martini to celebrate, initiating a lighthearted and engaging dialogue.

Sabrina shares her excitement and gratitude about attending the Grammys for the first time:

“I always told myself that I never wanted to go until I was nominated, and I didn't think it would be for all those categories, which is really special. So I'm excited.” ([04:00])

Colbert emphasizes the rarity of Sabrina's experience, noting the importance of enjoying such milestones:

“Are you taking the time? Are you taking the time? Enjoy what's happening with you this year because some people and very few people get to go through what you're going through right now.” ([04:09])

Sabrina reflects on her journey and the emotions tied to her success:

“Singing is all I've ever wanted to do. Writing songs is my favorite thing in the world. So the fact that I could do it and people listen is sentimental, but it's a gift, so I'm very grateful.” ([04:46])

Musical Influences and Paul McCartney Anecdote

Delving into her musical inspirations, Sabrina shares a heartfelt story about her admiration for Paul McCartney and the Beatles:

“When I was very, very young, my dad played me Rocky Raccoon for the first time. I was so mesmerized by that song and the songwriting of it that I fell in love with Paul McCartney.” ([06:10])

She reminisces about meeting McCartney:

“He was so normal and casual and was so charming, and it just felt like I was kind of entering, like, an alternate universe, like the upside down vibes.” ([06:58])

Sabrina highlights McCartney's impact on her:

“Every room that he enters, he makes everyone feel seen and heard. It was such a beautiful experience for me to see that from someone that I admired so much.” ([07:16])

Discussing Current Albums: "Espresso" and "Short and Sweet"

Colbert transitions to Sabrina's recent musical projects, addressing her albums "Espresso" and "Short and Sweet":

“Espresso came out in April. You released your album here, Short and Sweet, in August.” ([07:34])

Sabrina appreciates the unique approach of releasing a double album:

“You don't see this. You don't see the double album very often.” ([07:49])

They discuss the artistry involved in creating music videos and Sabrina's comfort with incorporating humor:

“Do you ever think you'd ever want to be a comedian? Cause you're funny?” ([08:06])

Sabrina responds thoughtfully, expressing her focus on singing and song-writing:

“I sing mostly.” ([08:35])

Comedy and On-Stage Banter

Stephen and Sabrina engage in playful banter, including a light-hearted chugging contest:

Stephen Colbert: “Should we do a chugging contest?” ([03:09])

Sabrina Carpenter: “Sure.” ([03:11])

Stephen Colbert: “I win.” ([03:22])

This segment showcases Sabrina's ability to engage humorously on stage, enhancing the rapport between host and guest.

"A Nonsense Christmas" Special and Collaboration with Sean Astin

The discussion shifts to Sabrina's new Netflix special, "A Nonsense Christmas":

Stephen Colbert: “One of the things I love about your special is you got one of my favorite actors to play Santa. This is, you were sitting on the lap of none other than Samwise Gamgee. Sean Astin, right there.” ([10:50])

Sabrina shares her positive experience working with Sean Astin:

“He was just so professional. Every guest that was a part of the special, we had so many incredible musicians, so many incredible comedians, artists, our writers, our director, Everyone was just. And we shot it in two days, like a miracle.” ([12:20])

She expresses her admiration for creating a variety show feel inspired by icons like Cher and Dolly Parton:

“I really wanted it to feel like a variety special. Like, I was in love with the Cher show. And you know, Dolly Parton's one of my idols, so growing up, I just watched them and I just felt like, why not make a new one for the kids for Christmas?” ([12:25])

Closing Remarks

As the interview wraps up, Colbert highlights Sabrina's Grammy-nominated album "Short and Sweet":

“Her Grammy nominated album, short and Sweet is out now.” ([13:29])

Sabrina concludes by promoting her work and upcoming projects, maintaining the engaging and upbeat tone of the conversation.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Sabrina Carpenter on Gratitude:

  “Singing is all I've ever wanted to do. Writing songs is my favorite thing in the world. So the fact that I could do it and people listen is sentimental, but it's a gift, so I'm very grateful.” ([04:46])

• Sabrina Carpenter on Meeting Paul McCartney:

  “He was so normal and casual and was so charming, and it just felt like I was kind of entering, like, an alternate universe, like the upside down vibes.” ([06:58])

• Stephen Colbert on Sabrina's Grammy Nominations:

  “Are you taking the time? Are you taking the time? Enjoy what's happening with you this year because some people and very few people get to go through what you're going through right now.” ([04:09])

Conclusion

This episode offers an intimate glimpse into Sabrina Carpenter's artistic journey, her inspirations, and her reflections on recent successes. Through candid conversations and humorous exchanges, Stephen Colbert and Sabrina provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of her work and personal experiences in the music industry.

For more clips and exclusives, visit The Late Show YouTube channel. Stream "A Nonsense Christmas" and Sabrina Carpenter's albums on Paramount+.