Stephen Colbert has shown a consistent fascination with Canada in his late-night comedy shows, portraying the country as a beloved subject of his humorous affection. Throughout his tenure on CBS’s “Late Show with Stephen Colbert” and Comedy Central’s “The Colbert Report,” he playfully teased Canadian currency, politics, and culture, treating Canada like a cherished crush that he enjoys poking fun at publicly while secretly admiring.
Last July, Colbert announced that the upcoming season would be the final one, citing financial reasons amid challenges in the late-night landscape. Interestingly, this announcement followed closely after Colbert criticized Paramount Global, CBS’s parent company, for settling a lawsuit with then-U.S. President Donald Trump over a “60 Minutes” story.
As the show approaches its final episode on May 21, let’s revisit some of Colbert’s most memorable Canadian-themed segments. In a surprising twist, genealogical research revealed Colbert’s ancestral ties to Canada, with his great-great-grandparents hailing from Ireland and settling in Frontenac County near Kingston, Ontario.
Colbert’s comedic take on Canada extended to its national anthem, as he humorously suggested revisions when a bill to amend the anthem passed in Parliament. His rendition included nods to Canadian heartthrobs like Ryan Gosling and Ryan Reynolds, adding a touch of humor to the patriotic tune.
In a lighthearted segment, Colbert playfully tackled a Canadian citizenship test, showcasing his wit by humorously interpreting Canadianisms like the proper use of “u” in words and the mandatory inclusion of Gordon Lightfoot songs at karaoke. His jesting portrayal of Canadian politeness, particularly in response to political tensions, became a recurring theme in his comedic repertoire.
Colbert’s interactions with Canadian guests, including former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, revealed his genuine curiosity about Canadian culture and politics. From discussing the Canadian mosaic to bantering about Canadian bacon, Colbert’s interviews showcased his interest in and affection for all things Canadian.
Additionally, Colbert welcomed numerous Canadian celebrities on his show, expressing admiration for icons like Catherine O’Hara and Eugene Levy. His musical duet with Michael Bublé and playful banter with Sandra Oh highlighted his appreciation for Canadian talent and cultural quirks.
Not one to shy away from controversy, Colbert once sparked a playful feud with Windsor, Ontario, jokingly dubbing the city as the “Earth’s rectum” in a comedic segment. Despite the light-hearted ribbing, Colbert’s interactions with Canadian cities and news outlets added a touch of humor to his satirical commentary.
As Stephen Colbert bids farewell to his late-night show, his comedic legacy intertwined with Canadian themes will surely be remembered fondly by fans on both sides of the border.