On a recent episode of “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” host Stephen Colbert had the audience in stitches with his hilarious take on Thanksgiving Eve, the busiest travel day of the year. With his signature wit and charm, Colbert welcomed his audience and acknowledged the millions of American adults traveling for Thanksgiving.
In a lighthearted manner, Colbert mentioned the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) guidelines for Thanksgiving dishes allowed on planes. While turkey is generally permitted, it’s advised to be cooked. Colbert couldn’t help but joke about making turkey drier and even suggested powdered turkey. As for alcoholic beverages, the TSA clarified that they should be checked.
When it comes to the beloved Thanksgiving sides, the TSA allows passengers to carry on green beans, yams, and even mac and cheese. However, gravy will have to travel by boat, eliciting laughs from the audience.
In a survey sponsored by Ocean Spray, 83% of respondents claimed that Thanksgiving wouldn’t be complete without cranberry sauce. Colbert playfully mentioned the divide between homemade cranberry sauce and the iconic canned version, with only 21% favoring homemade. In a surprising twist, 15% of canned cranberry sauce enthusiasts said they’d be willing to get a tattoo to honor their love for the canned variety.
Colbert then delved into the impact of weight loss drugs on people’s relationships with food during Thanksgiving. New drugs like OIC, which suppress appetite, have raised questions about whether users should inform their family members to avoid hurt feelings due to smaller appetites. Colbert amusingly noted that in America, it’s considered rude to leave the Thanksgiving table alive if you’re capable of staying.
In a satirical segment, Colbert highlighted some side effects of OIC, including one headline that humorously claimed it could “burn off your genitals.” While joking about some of the side effects, Colbert mentioned the potential for intensified experiences like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. His comedic take on the topic had the audience roaring with laughter.
Switching gears, Colbert poked fun at Fox News’ tradition of blaming everything on Joe Biden. Former Congressman Jason Chaffetz lamented the high price of turkeys, blaming it on Biden’s choices. However, Colbert playfully debunked Chaffetz’s claim by presenting data from the Department of Agriculture, showing that the average cost of a frozen turkey is a much more reasonable price per pound.
Colbert couldn’t contain his excitement for the upcoming Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York, which will be covered live on CBS. He shared some hilarious updates on the classic balloons, including a makeover for Snoopy and a slightly worried look for the Pillsbury Doughboy.
In a surprising twist, Colbert mentioned a non-Thanksgiving-related study claiming that magicians are less prone to mental health challenges than other creatives. This led to a sarcastic advertisement from magician Chris Angel, offering his services as a “mind shrink” to those struggling with mental health issues.
In classic Colbert fashion, the host signed off by teasing the guests for the evening, Peter Dage and Tig Notaro, and inviting the audience to join them. With his entertaining commentary and sharp wit, Stephen Colbert certainly made this Thanksgiving-themed episode of “The Late Show” one to remember.
