As the interview began, there was a warm welcome and applause for Nathan Lane. Colbert was quick to remark on how fantastic Lane looked after two years since their last meeting. They reminisced about the time they ran into each other at the star-studded SNL 50th Anniversary event, sharing a few humorous moments about their encounter in the celebrity-packed bathroom.
The conversation then turned to Lane’s experience hosting SNL back in the 90s. Lane humorously referred to himself as a member of the “one-timers Club,” a group of hosts who only hosted the show once. He shared his excitement about being part of such a historic night and even revealed that Metallica was the musical guest when he hosted.
But the highlight of the interview was when the topic shifted to one of Lane’s most cherished memories, working with the legendary Gene Hackman in the film “The Birdcage.” Lane expressed his admiration for Hackman, describing him as his favorite actor. Lane recalled telling Hackman every morning on set that he was his favorite actor, and they even shared conversations about Hackman’s previous works, including “Scarecrow.” Lane praised Hackman’s talent and versatility, saying he could seamlessly transition between comedy and drama, and working with him was a thrill of a lifetime.
The conversation then took a political turn as Colbert brought up the current state of affairs, mentioning Donald Trump‘s return to the White House and his administration’s impact on cultural institutions. Lane didn’t hold back, humorously commenting on Trump’s influence on the Kennedy Center, joking that he couldn’t keep his “teeny tiny baby hands off” it. Lane also shared his thoughts on the cultural changes and productions happening under Trump’s influence, poking fun at a hypothetical youth choir made up of Elon Musk’s children and a musical tribute to Ronald Reagan starring Kanye West.
Lane’s witty remarks continued as he joked about the canceled appearance of the gay men’s chorus and RFK Jr’s preference for an all-unvaccinated audience. He even entertained the idea of hosting a gala for conservative Republicans on Grindr, with a humorous reference to Guantanamo Bay.
The interview wrapped up with laughter and applause as Lane showcased his comedic skills and left the audience wanting more. It was another memorable appearance on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” that reminded viewers of Lane’s immense talent and ability to entertain.
Nathan Lane‘s interview on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” was a delightful mix of humor, nostalgia, and sharp commentary. It’s evident that Lane’s charisma and wit continue to captivate audiences, making him a true legend in the entertainment industry.
