Stephen Colbert has a penchant for poking fun at Canada, which he has showcased through his late-night shows on CBS and Comedy Central. Despite his playful jabs at Canadian currency, politics, and culture, it’s evident that Colbert holds a soft spot for the Great White North.
The decision to end “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” after this season was attributed to financial considerations by Paramount and CBS executives. However, eyebrows were raised when the announcement followed Colbert’s public criticism of Paramount Global, CBS’s parent company, settling a legal dispute with former U.S. President Donald Trump just days earlier.
Colbert’s final episode is scheduled to air on May 21, marking the conclusion of his long-running stint on late-night television. As a tribute to his Canadian-themed segments, we revisit some of his most memorable moments involving Canada.
In a 2014 revelation by Ancestry.ca, it was uncovered that Colbert’s family history traces back to Canada, specifically to Frontenac County near Kingston, Ontario. This connection shed light on his alleged passion for hockey, stemming from his great-great-grandfather, James Quinn, who settled in Canada.
Colbert’s comedic take on Canada’s national anthem in 2016, following a legislative change, added a touch of humor to his portrayal of Canadian stereotypes. His parody lyrics, including references to Canadian celebrities like Ryan Gosling and Ryan Reynolds, showcased his playful yet affectionate perspective on the country.
A notable segment involved Colbert humorously undertaking a mock Canadian citizenship test in 2019, showcasing his wit and satire. His unconventional responses to questions about Canadian governance and cultural quirks added to the entertainment value of the show.
The late-night host’s interviews with Canadian politicians, such as former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, provided amusing insights into Canadian-American relations and cultural differences. Colbert’s lighthearted banter with Trudeau over topics like Canadian bacon highlighted his ability to blend humor with diplomacy.
Colbert also welcomed Canadian celebrities on his show, expressing admiration for icons like Eugene Levy and Catherine O’Hara, whom he revered as comedy legends. His interactions with Canadian stars like Michael Bublé and Sandra Oh further showcased his appreciation for Canadian talent and culture.
One of Colbert’s more controversial moments involved a jest about Windsor, Ontario, being labeled as the “Earth’s rectum.” This playful dig at the Canadian city sparked a humorous exchange with Windsor’s mayor and even led to Colbert referencing a CBC News poll on the matter.
As Colbert bids farewell to his late-night hosting duties, his comedic legacy intertwined with Canadian themes will be remembered fondly by fans and viewers alike.