I wish Colbert would shut up

[kaygore]

He has Naomi Wolf on his show, but rather than letting her speak (what she has to say is very important), he does his normal annoying interrupting and trying one-up-manship. So boring, so annoying, so predictable. I have stopped copying Colbert. Why waste the tape? If I catch it at 11:30 then I watch. If not, so be it. Yawn!

I realize that Colbert is a parody, but the interview section of the show is too often a waste. Either he needs fluff people to interview or at least let his guests get their points across.

No wonder Jon Stewart wins the Emmy year after year and Colbert doesn't.

Jon Stewart needs to have Naomi Wolf on his show so we can hear her message.

[wildhorses]

1. even teletubbies has a serious segment ---

:hide:

[Forkboy]

8. LOL

And I'm pissed that they don't give enough time to the serious one...whichever one that is. :)

[Beelzebud]

2. Buy her book... Thats her message, and that why Colbert put her on his show...

She has a book to sell, and he's helping her sell it.

[kaygore]

60. We don't really get to understand what the book is about

My frustration with so many of the Colbert interviews is that it is as if he is just trying to be an ass and argue and interrupt just to argue and interrupt.

In all fairness, I have never watched O'Reilly or any of the other shows that Colbert supposedly parodies; however, I find it hard to believe that they would still be on TV if all the host does is interrupt and shout over the guest.

But, more to the point, Colbert has the ability to parody but still slyly point out the truth. However, in his interviews most of the time, his genius fails. This may simply be that he is not good at interviews or his staff is not up to the task or they invite the wrong people.

The Daily Show is also comedy; however, Jon Stewart usually makes the interview equal to the genius of the rest of the show.

My frustration with Colbert's interviews may simply be that I want them to live up to the comic genius that is evident in the rest of the show and this includes the interviews that he has with the people who appear at his desk. He usually does a fine job there, so I believe that the actual interview portion at the end of the show could meet the same high standards as the other parts of the show.

I find myself so often yelling at the screen during the Colbert interviews for him to just shut up and last night, my frustration got the best of me.

I find so many of my friends are avid TDS watchers but don't stay tuned for Colbert. In fact, I bet that the Colbert Report does not get the same ratings as TDS. When I ask people why they don't watch CR, most cite the interviews.

My point, not well made either here or last night, is that CR would be a much better show if the writers put the same effort into the interview portion as they do into the rest of the show. Stephen Colbert is a huge talent and it seems a great waste not to leverage that talent in the interview section. In fact, typically when the interview section is bearable are those times when Colbert has a guest with whom he disagrees personally and, therefore, can pretend to agree and in so doing highlights the flaws in the person's position or reasoning.

I guess, in the end, I just want CR to be the truly outstanding show that it has the ability to be.

[OnyxCollie]

113. I watched Stephen Colbert interviewed by Charlie Rose a year ago.

He explained that when is conducting an interview, he is often at odds with his personal interests and the character he plays. He said that he is fascinated by someone who can map out the genome and wishes he could spend a lot of time listening to them talk, but it's a comedy show and he's in character, so he's got to go for the laugh.

[question everything]

3. But his Solitarity was priceless

I could not have said it better myself.. (and I tried)

[OmmmSweetOmmm]

24. It was brilliant. eom

[kaygore]

61. I agree that most of the show is genius or near genius

My frustration with so many of the Colbert interviews is that it is as if he is just trying to be an ass and argue and interrupt just to argue and interrupt.

In all fairness, I have never watched O'Reilly or any of the other shows that Colbert supposedly parodies; however, I find it hard to believe that they would still be on TV if all the host does is interrupt and shout over the guest.

But, more to the point, Colbert has the ability to parody but still slyly point out the truth. However, in his interviews most of the time, his genius fails. This may simply be that he is not good at interviews or his staff is not up to the task or they invite the wrong people.

The Daily Show is also comedy; however, Jon Stewart usually makes the interview equal to the genius of the rest of the show.

My frustration with Colbert's interviews may simply be that I want them to live up to the comic genius that is evident in the rest of the show and this includes the interviews that he has with the people who appear at his desk. He usually does a fine job there, so I believe that the actual interview portion at the end of the show could meet the same high standards as the other parts of the show.

I find myself so often yelling at the screen during the Colbert interviews for him to just shut up and last night, my frustration got the best of me.

I find so many of my friends are avid TDS watchers but don't stay tuned for Colbert. In fact, I bet that the Colbert Report does not get the same ratings as TDS. When I ask people why they don't watch CR, most cite the interviews.

My point, not well made either here or last night, is that CR would be a much better show if the writers put the same effort into the interview portion as they do into the rest of the show. Stephen Colbert is a huge talent and it seems a great waste not to leverage that talent in the interview section. In fact, typically when the interview section is bearable are those times when Colbert has a guest with whom he disagrees personally and, therefore, can pretend to agree and in so doing highlights the flaws in the person's position or reasoning.

I guess, in the end, I just want CR to be the truly outstanding show that it has the ability to be.

[Blashyrkh]

4. That's what you get for watching a comedy show for news.

He's found a niche parodying Repug journalists and the news/comedy crossover is popular, but don't forget he is a performer. He is first and foremost an entertainer. No jokes means no audience.

Besides, if Colbert starting letting left-wing people on his show to promote their points of view WITHOUT the playing the "RW Journo" character, he doesn't have a show.

Furthermore, "Teletubbies" and "serious" should never be used in the same sentence. The only serious thing about Teletubbies is the mental illnesses suffered by the people who make it. You wanna know why kids are fucked up nowadays and I'll show you four blobs of coloured shit.

[Colorado Progressive]

7. Thats asinine. How many people grew up with Sesame Street, and we are just fine. Teletubbies

is not the threat to our society at present, trust me!

[Blashyrkh]

12. Fair point. Unintelligble coloured blobs are clearly the best means to interact with children.

:sarcasm:

[shimmergal]

15. Teletubbies is directed at the

under-2 set; practically the only show that really appeals to this group.

And no, their thought process are _not_ the same as ours, but they do grow up healthily, most of them, and learn to comprehend in other ways too. Don't know what your gripe is with teletubbies--if you've been _forced_ to watch them by babysitting a very small child too much, just learn to
mentally "turn off" on what's on the screen and think about something else.

[ChairmanAgnostic]

30. But teletubbies transmit the GAY DISEASE! THEY ARE EVIL!

surely you know that!

We must stomp out Teletubbies immediately! No more gay roll modules! No More Gay Roll Modules!

[hootinholler]

40. Gay Role Modules

Would that be a float in the Bay to Breakers?

-Hoot

[ChairmanAgnostic]

49. an I Scream float, no doubt.

I best cut off the coffee this AM.

[Blashyrkh]

102. You wanna put anymore words in my mouth?

I don't have any one specific reason I don't like Teletubbies. Maybe it's the fact I'm a 25 year old and find the show condescending beyond belief. Frankly, I'd rather sit my < 2 year old down with a big piece of paper and some pencils or some giant Lego rather than letting television raise my kids. Maybe that's why I hate Teletubbies. Maybe that's why I hate TV.

It most certainly does not have anything to do with homosexuality and you're going to be alerted for your entirely pathetic attempt to paint me as a homophobic lunatic because I don't like Teletubbies.

[nealmhughes]

42. My 4 year old cousin hates the Teletubbies, but her 2 year old sister loves them!

Stewie Griffith said it best "I don't really know what it is about but it has bright colors and they move a lot, so it keeps my attention."

When the 2 year old has eaten and it isn't time for playing or nap time and you are trying to get the breakfast dishes done, it is a Godsend! That and playing with the dogs and Mardi Gras beads!

[yodermon]

86. Blues Clues is still a fantastic show for the 3-6 crowd.

My 3 year old will watch it straight through, for full 1/2 hour episode.. and it's NOT all chopped up like Sesame Street into 5-minute "attention-span friendly" chunks. It has a full fledged story arc, and kids will still pay attention to the whole thing. From wiki:

"I love Sesame Street," said Kessler. "But I always believed that kids didn't have short attention spans, that they could easily sit still for a half an hour."<2> While Sesame Street was originally organized around short, commercial-like segments, each Blue's Clues show is a single extended narrative.

"There was...a theoretical perspective at the time, based in part on Piaget, that a preschool child couldn't follow an extended narrative," according to Daniel Anderson, who helped develop Blue's Clues for Nickelodeon. In the early 1980s, however, research suggestive that narrative was in fact a crucial way that small children organized their experiences.<3>

The show also uses phrase repetition and a minimum of editing in an attempt to avoid confusing its young audience.<1>

[The Vinyl Ripper]

17. I've been watching Sesame Street for about thirty years now..

And I still find it amusing.

Unlike almost all other kids shows they put in stuff to amuse the adults too..

Like Cookie Monster comes on dressed like Alistair Cooke and says Hello, I'm Alistair Cookie and this is Monsterpiece Theater. The kids don't get it but knowledgeable adults do.

[ChairmanAgnostic]

31. the kids get it too, whose parents watch good teevee. nt

[renate]

73. I don't know whether your kids are old enough for Nickelodeon

At least two of its shows--SpongeBob and Fairly Oddparents--are fun for grownups too, and interestingly, those are geared towards littler kids (pre-teens). The other Nickelodeon shows for teenagers that I've seen are endurable once but not more than that. (I guess that's logical, since adults are likelier to be watching with little kids than with older ones.)

[CreekDog]

96. If I ate cookies like he did, I would be thinner

He just kinda smashes them against his mouth and they fall out.

No wonder he is so obsessed with eating cookies!

[CreekDog]

95. Sesame Street is way more advanced than teletubbies

"Kermit the frog here...apparently a cow tried to jump the moon...Mrs. Cow..."

It was damn smart edu-tainment.

[kaygore]

62. Most of his show is genius...just not the formal interview portion typically

My frustration with so many of the Colbert interviews is that it is as if he is just trying to be an ass and argue and interrupt just to argue and interrupt.

In all fairness, I have never watched O'Reilly or any of the other shows that Colbert supposedly parodies; however, I find it hard to believe that they would still be on TV if all the host does is interrupt and shout over the guest.

But, more to the point, Colbert has the ability to parody but still slyly point out the truth. However, in his interviews most of the time, his genius fails. This may simply be that he is not good at interviews or his staff is not up to the task or they invite the wrong people.

The Daily Show is also comedy; however, Jon Stewart usually makes the interview equal to the genius of the rest of the show.

My frustration with Colbert's interviews may simply be that I want them to live up to the comic genius that is evident in the rest of the show and this includes the interviews that he has with the people who appear at his desk. He usually does a fine job there, so I believe that the actual interview portion at the end of the show could meet the same high standards as the other parts of the show.

I find myself so often yelling at the screen during the Colbert interviews for him to just shut up and last night, my frustration got the best of me.

I find so many of my friends are avid TDS watchers but don't stay tuned for Colbert. In fact, I bet that the Colbert Report does not get the same ratings as TDS. When I ask people why they don't watch CR, most cite the interviews.

My point, not well made either here or last night, is that CR would be a much better show if the writers put the same effort into the interview portion as they do into the rest of the show. Stephen Colbert is a huge talent and it seems a great waste not to leverage that talent in the interview section. In fact, typically when the interview section is bearable are those times when Colbert has a guest with whom he disagrees personally and, therefore, can pretend to agree and in so doing highlights the flaws in the person's position or reasoning.

I guess, in the end, I just want CR to be the truly outstanding show that it has the ability to be.

[Sequoia]

84. Stop it, Teletubbies are cute.

Although there aren't any trees to speak of where they live which doesn't appeal to me. If I were a cartoon person I wouldn't want to live there.

[Quantess]

5. It's his schtick.

He's channeling Bill O'Reilly on his show. I love him for it.

[kaygore]

63. Most of the show is genius just not the interviews most of the time

My frustration with so many of the Colbert interviews is that it is as if he is just trying to be an ass and argue and interrupt just to argue and interrupt.

In all fairness, I have never watched O'Reilly or any of the other shows that Colbert supposedly parodies; however, I find it hard to believe that they would still be on TV if all the host does is interrupt and shout over the guest.

But, more to the point, Colbert has the ability to parody but still slyly point out the truth. However, in his interviews most of the time, his genius fails. This may simply be that he is not good at interviews or his staff is not up to the task or they invite the wrong people.

The Daily Show is also comedy; however, Jon Stewart usually makes the interview equal to the genius of the rest of the show.

My frustration with Colbert's interviews may simply be that I want them to live up to the comic genius that is evident in the rest of the show and this includes the interviews that he has with the people who appear at his desk. He usually does a fine job there, so I believe that the actual interview portion at the end of the show could meet the same high standards as the other parts of the show.

I find myself so often yelling at the screen during the Colbert interviews for him to just shut up and last night, my frustration got the best of me.

I find so many of my friends are avid TDS watchers but don't stay tuned for Colbert. In fact, I bet that the Colbert Report does not get the same ratings as TDS. When I ask people why they don't watch CR, most cite the interviews.

My point, not well made either here or last night, is that CR would be a much better show if the writers put the same effort into the interview portion as they do into the rest of the show. Stephen Colbert is a huge talent and it seems a great waste not to leverage that talent in the interview section. In fact, typically when the interview section is bearable are those times when Colbert has a guest with whom he disagrees personally and, therefore, can pretend to agree and in so doing highlights the flaws in the person's position or reasoning.

I guess, in the end, I just want CR to be the truly outstanding show that it has the ability to be.

[Hoof Hearted]

77. Oh my God. Why do you keep copying and pasting your own post over and over?

It's boring and annoying . If you don't have the mental and physical energy to think of something new to say, or a couple of extra minutes to take the time, even just to paraphrase yourself - spare us all and just skip it o.k.?

Damn.

[Quantess]

115. Colbert does a great job of staying in character! That's what stage personas are expected to do.

"In all fairness, I have never watched O'Reilly or any of the other shows that Colbert supposedly parodies; however, I find it hard to believe that they would still be on TV if all the host does is interrupt and shout over the guest."

LOL, you really have NOT ever seen Bill O'Reilly's show, have you? In the past few years I've turned the channel away quick as soon as Billo's ugly-mug appears, so I can't say whether he has mellowed with age, but in the late 1980s and early 1990s, I remember seeing him get frothy at the mouth interrupting people. O'Reilly was the catapult, vanguard, of TV persona interrupting people during interviews.

Did you ever notice talking heads in the 1990s and early 2000s interrupting with a bastard version of alright? Except it was a fast, slurred, ar'aa't!1!! Then you knew your polite interchange was being cut off quick. That even happened with my co-workers! Well that, was straight from Bill O'Reilly's playbook. Bill O'Reilly had a lot of admirers, which is a sad comment on our nation back in the 90s.

I remember a slick co-worker who constantly used the ubiquitous, annoying "A'rii!!!" Sometimes, "m'rAii!!" When she wanted to seem smart and relevant and assertive, and as an alert that she was going to inject her abrasive opinion. :eyes: :puke:

But, I'm not suggesting you watch any of Bill O Reilly's show. Just know that there is a broken, sad, past of "reporting" that Colbert is satirizing.

[Bitwit1234]

6. I don't care for Colbert

[EFerrari]

9. I think Colbert's interviews are brilliant. n/t

[Coexist]

35. so do I.

he has such a sharp mind, and he is so quick.

[lonestarnot]

46. As do I,

but the OP makes a good point. SC let your guests get a word in to the wise please.

[kaygore]

66. Colbert is a comic genius; however, his interviews too often miss the mark

My frustration with so many of the Colbert interviews is that it is as if he is just trying to be an ass and argue and interrupt just to argue and interrupt.

In all fairness, I have never watched O'Reilly or any of the other shows that Colbert supposedly parodies; however, I find it hard to believe that they would still be on TV if all the host does is interrupt and shout over the guest.

But, more to the point, Colbert has the ability to parody but still slyly point out the truth. However, in his interviews most of the time, his genius fails. This may simply be that he is not good at interviews or his staff is not up to the task or they invite the wrong people.

The Daily Show is also comedy; however, Jon Stewart usually makes the interview equal to the genius of the rest of the show.

My frustration with Colbert's interviews may simply be that I want them to live up to the comic genius that is evident in the rest of the show and this includes the interviews that he has with the people who appear at his desk. He usually does a fine job there, so I believe that the actual interview portion at the end of the show could meet the same high standards as the other parts of the show.

I find myself so often yelling at the screen during the Colbert interviews for him to just shut up and last night, my frustration got the best of me.

I find so many of my friends are avid TDS watchers but don't stay tuned for Colbert. In fact, I bet that the Colbert Report does not get the same ratings as TDS. When I ask people why they don't watch CR, most cite the interviews.

My point, not well made either here or last night, is that CR would be a much better show if the writers put the same effort into the interview portion as they do into the rest of the show. Stephen Colbert is a huge talent and it seems a great waste not to leverage that talent in the interview section. In fact, typically when the interview section is bearable are those times when Colbert has a guest with whom he disagrees personally and, therefore, can pretend to agree and in so doing highlights the flaws in the person's position or reasoning.

I guess, in the end, I just want CR to be the truly outstanding show that it has the ability to be.

[Dervill Crow]

90. Is something wrong with your computer?

I thought there was a problem with the scroll function on mine, but it seems this same text was posted over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over.

[kaygore]

93. Nope

Just wanted to reply to each person as they took the time to post, but am taking care of a friend who just had open heart surgery so I have limited time and felt that I hadn't been really clear on my first frustrated post.

I really appreciate Colbert's genius and just find it lacking in the interview section most time.

I do applaud you for taking the time to read each of my reply to reply posts. You must really care. As an FYI, I have a break while my friend is sleeping so I am going back to posting the "stutter" reply as you so aptly noted.

Very clever.

Do at least give me credit for changing the subject line. ;-)

[CreekDog]

97. That is a lame excuse for posting the same thing over and over

Egads.

Plus Colbert is playing a character based on that show you "never" watch. The character he is playing is always the center of attention, always interrupts and would never let a guest like Wolf make her point.

I think you should have gotten the idea when Colbert had Barry Manilow on and COLBERT performed "I write the songs".

And Jon Stewart is not playing a character. The Daily Show is all characters except for Jon Stewart who represents the viewer and is sort of the straight man in the joke.

[Dervill Crow]

106. Ah, didn't notice you had written the original post . . . Sorry!

I read through the post a couple of times before I realized it was pretty much the same thing. I thought MY computer was messing with me. Or DU was burping. I did notice the subject line changed, and that was confusing to me.

That's what happens when I read DU at lunch time and try to buzz through a lot of posts quickly.

I do agree with you, by the way, and you expressed it very well.

Good health to your friend.

:hi:

[kaygore]

109. Thank you

By the way, I love Portland and miss Stumptown Coffee and New Seasons (as well as so many friends).

[Quantess]

116. FYI, my dear...

there are more readers than posters on DU, by far. People notice your posts. ;-)
A long time ago, a friend said to me, "You think you're invisible. You're not."

[kaygore]

65. He is a genius but his interviews too often fall flat

My frustration with so many of the Colbert interviews is that it is as if he is just trying to be an ass and argue and interrupt just to argue and interrupt.

In all fairness, I have never watched O'Reilly or any of the other shows that Colbert supposedly parodies; however, I find it hard to believe that they would still be on TV if all the host does is interrupt and shout over the guest.

But, more to the point, Colbert has the ability to parody but still slyly point out the truth. However, in his interviews most of the time, his genius fails. This may simply be that he is not good at interviews or his staff is not up to the task or they invite the wrong people.

The Daily Show is also comedy; however, Jon Stewart usually makes the interview equal to the genius of the rest of the show.

My frustration with Colbert's interviews may simply be that I want them to live up to the comic genius that is evident in the rest of the show and this includes the interviews that he has with the people who appear at his desk. He usually does a fine job there, so I believe that the actual interview portion at the end of the show could meet the same high standards as the other parts of the show.

I find myself so often yelling at the screen during the Colbert interviews for him to just shut up and last night, my frustration got the best of me.

I find so many of my friends are avid TDS watchers but don't stay tuned for Colbert. In fact, I bet that the Colbert Report does not get the same ratings as TDS. When I ask people why they don't watch CR, most cite the interviews.

My point, not well made either here or last night, is that CR would be a much better show if the writers put the same effort into the interview portion as they do into the rest of the show. Stephen Colbert is a huge talent and it seems a great waste not to leverage that talent in the interview section. In fact, typically when the interview section is bearable are those times when Colbert has a guest with whom he disagrees personally and, therefore, can pretend to agree and in so doing highlights the flaws in the person's position or reasoning.

I guess, in the end, I just want CR to be the truly outstanding show that it has the ability to be.

[kaygore]

64. I disagee (and I usually agree with you!!!) Hmmm...

My frustration with so many of the Colbert interviews is that it is as if he is just trying to be an ass and argue and interrupt just to argue and interrupt.

In all fairness, I have never watched O'Reilly or any of the other shows that Colbert supposedly parodies; however, I find it hard to believe that they would still be on TV if all the host does is interrupt and shout over the guest.

But, more to the point, Colbert has the ability to parody but still slyly point out the truth. However, in his interviews most of the time, his genius fails. This may simply be that he is not good at interviews or his staff is not up to the task or they invite the wrong people.

The Daily Show is also comedy; however, Jon Stewart usually makes the interview equal to the genius of the rest of the show.

My frustration with Colbert's interviews may simply be that I want them to live up to the comic genius that is evident in the rest of the show and this includes the interviews that he has with the people who appear at his desk. He usually does a fine job there, so I believe that the actual interview portion at the end of the show could meet the same high standards as the other parts of the show.

I find myself so often yelling at the screen during the Colbert interviews for him to just shut up and last night, my frustration got the best of me.

I find so many of my friends are avid TDS watchers but don't stay tuned for Colbert. In fact, I bet that the Colbert Report does not get the same ratings as TDS. When I ask people why they don't watch CR, most cite the interviews.

My point, not well made either here or last night, is that CR would be a much better show if the writers put the same effort into the interview portion as they do into the rest of the show. Stephen Colbert is a huge talent and it seems a great waste not to leverage that talent in the interview section. In fact, typically when the interview section is bearable are those times when Colbert has a guest with whom he disagrees personally and, therefore, can pretend to agree and in so doing highlights the flaws in the person's position or reasoning.

I guess, in the end, I just want CR to be the truly outstanding show that it has the ability to be.

[Coexist]

78. he acts a perfect parody for right wing interviewers -

lets them try to make a point - and jumps in with his "gut" feeling. Its right on!

[EFerrari]

81. The thing is, it's an anti-interview. So, if you are watching it

as an interview and you are frustrated, you are watching it right. :)

I love watching Colbert respond in character and maintain the pace of the show, which would be really difficult for even the most skillful improviser, imho. Sort of like tap dancing while your hair is on fire. lol

[Missy Vixen]

85. One thing's for sure -- this is one of the more interesting threads I've ever seen in six years

Either state another point, or stop repeating yourself. We got your point the first time.

Julie

[Hoof Hearted]

110. You are like a fucking Twilight Zone episode.

COPY AND PASTE is not, I repeat, NOT, a debate strategy.

[Kelly Rupert]

10. Quite frankly, I love Colbert.

I think he's the sharpest political commentator in America today. He never breaks character on camera. Ever. If he were to let up, even for a minute, it would kill his character. Col-bert is not going to sit back and politely let his left-wing hosts talk like a normal host does, because that's not what Col-bear does. If you don't like his shtick, don't watch--and don't go on about how you think he ought to change. Seriously, demanding that Colbert politely let his guests talk is like demanding Ali G politely let his guests talk.

He isn't a political activist. He's a satirist. Letting people hear a message isn't his thing; punching holes in American political discourse is. Though, I might add, he usually does let a guest get their message through, even in a roundabout fashion. Unless you act like you don't get the joke, you'll walk away with a successful interview.

[OKDem08]

11. Bravo!...very well stated

I, too, think Colbert is brilliant & hilarious. He gets the message across to a younger audience, too, who does get it (never a bad thing).

[kaygore]

68. Yes, Colbert is a comic genous, but he too often misses the mark on the interviews

The interviews typically lack the subtlety and genius of the other segments.

My frustration with so many of the Colbert interviews is that it is as if he is just trying to be an ass and argue and interrupt just to argue and interrupt.

In all fairness, I have never watched O'Reilly or any of the other shows that Colbert supposedly parodies; however, I find it hard to believe that they would still be on TV if all the host does is interrupt and shout over the guest.

But, more to the point, Colbert has the ability to parody but still slyly point out the truth. However, in his interviews most of the time, his genius fails. This may simply be that he is not good at interviews or his staff is not up to the task or they invite the wrong people.

The Daily Show is also comedy; however, Jon Stewart usually makes the interview equal to the genius of the rest of the show.

My frustration with Colbert's interviews may simply be that I want them to live up to the comic genius that is evident in the rest of the show and this includes the interviews that he has with the people who appear at his desk. He usually does a fine job there, so I believe that the actual interview portion at the end of the show could meet the same high standards as the other parts of the show.

I find myself so often yelling at the screen during the Colbert interviews for him to just shut up and last night, my frustration got the best of me.

[OKDem08]

88. Point well taken

I do recall wishing we could have heard more from Naomi. If I remember correctly, she only got through to point #4 of her argument. Maybe that's the intent. It makes me want to go buy her book & read more.

[Mad_Dem_X]

48. Exactly

He is playing a character, for Heaven's sake.

[kaygore]

69. A character yes but also a parody

and the interviews too often lack the subtlety and genius of the other segments.

My frustration with so many of the Colbert interviews is that it is as if he is just trying to be an ass and argue and interrupt just to argue and interrupt.

In all fairness, I have never watched O'Reilly or any of the other shows that Colbert supposedly parodies; however, I find it hard to believe that they would still be on TV if all the host does is interrupt and shout over the guest.

But, more to the point, Colbert has the ability to parody but still slyly point out the truth. However, in his interviews most of the time, his genius fails. This may simply be that he is not good at interviews or his staff is not up to the task or they invite the wrong people.

The Daily Show is also comedy; however, Jon Stewart usually makes the interview equal to the genius of the rest of the show.

My frustration with Colbert's interviews may simply be that I want them to live up to the comic genius that is evident in the rest of the show and this includes the interviews that he has with the people who appear at his desk. He usually does a fine job there, so I believe that the actual interview portion at the end of the show could meet the same high standards as the other parts of the show.

I find myself so often yelling at the screen during the Colbert interviews for him to just shut up and last night, my frustration got the best of me.

[kaygore]

67. Colbert is able to balance the character and the comedy in most of the show

but the interviews too often lack the subtlety and genius of the other segments.

My frustration with so many of the Colbert interviews is that it is as if he is just trying to be an ass and argue and interrupt just to argue and interrupt.

In all fairness, I have never watched O'Reilly or any of the other shows that Colbert supposedly parodies; however, I find it hard to believe that they would still be on TV if all the host does is interrupt and shout over the guest.

But, more to the point, Colbert has the ability to parody but still slyly point out the truth. However, in his interviews most of the time, his genius fails. This may simply be that he is not good at interviews or his staff is not up to the task or they invite the wrong people.

The Daily Show is also comedy; however, Jon Stewart usually makes the interview equal to the genius of the rest of the show.

My frustration with Colbert's interviews may simply be that I want them to live up to the comic genius that is evident in the rest of the show and this includes the interviews that he has with the people who appear at his desk. He usually does a fine job there, so I believe that the actual interview portion at the end of the show could meet the same high standards as the other parts of the show.

I find myself so often yelling at the screen during the Colbert interviews for him to just shut up and last night, my frustration got the best of me.

I find so many of my friends are avid TDS watchers but don't stay tuned for Colbert. In fact, I bet that the Colbert Report does not get the same ratings as TDS. When I ask people why they don't watch CR, most cite the interviews.

My point, not well made either here or last night, is that CR would be a much better show if the writers put the same effort into the interview portion as they do into the rest of the show. Stephen Colbert is a huge talent and it seems a great waste not to leverage that talent in the interview section. In fact, typically when the interview section is bearable are those times when Colbert has a guest with whom he disagrees personally and, therefore, can pretend to agree and in so doing highlights the flaws in the person's position or reasoning.

I guess, in the end, I just want CR to be the truly outstanding show that it has the ability to be.

[Trajan]

13. Yawn ......

Not every aspect of life is dark and foreboding .....

[cui bono]

14. You realize it's a comedy show. So sit back and enjoy it.

I find it quite entertaining.

[kaygore]

70. The frustration is that most of the show is more than entertainment: It's genius!

but the interviews too often lack the subtlety and genius of the other segments.

My frustration with so many of the Colbert interviews is that it is as if he is just trying to be an ass and argue and interrupt just to argue and interrupt.

In all fairness, I have never watched O'Reilly or any of the other shows that Colbert supposedly parodies; however, I find it hard to believe that they would still be on TV if all the host does is interrupt and shout over the guest.

But, more to the point, Colbert has the ability to parody but still slyly point out the truth. However, in his interviews most of the time, his genius fails. This may simply be that he is not good at interviews or his staff is not up to the task or they invite the wrong people.

The Daily Show is also comedy; however, Jon Stewart usually makes the interview equal to the genius of the rest of the show.

My frustration with Colbert's interviews may simply be that I want them to live up to the comic genius that is evident in the rest of the show and this includes the interviews that he has with the people who appear at his desk. He usually does a fine job there, so I believe that the actual interview portion at the end of the show could meet the same high standards as the other parts of the show.

I find myself so often yelling at the screen during the Colbert interviews for him to just shut up and last night, my frustration got the best of me.

[and-justice-for-all]

16. Yeah, it is Comedy Central after all...

easy there tex.

[kaygore]

71. My frustration is that most of the show is sheer genius

but the interviews too often lack the subtlety and genius of the other segments.

My frustration with so many of the Colbert interviews is that it is as if he is just trying to be an ass and argue and interrupt just to argue and interrupt.

In all fairness, I have never watched O'Reilly or any of the other shows that Colbert supposedly parodies; however, I find it hard to believe that they would still be on TV if all the host does is interrupt and shout over the guest.

But, more to the point, Colbert has the ability to parody but still slyly point out the truth. However, in his interviews most of the time, his genius fails. This may simply be that he is not good at interviews or his staff is not up to the task or they invite the wrong people.

The Daily Show is also comedy; however, Jon Stewart usually makes the interview equal to the genius of the rest of the show.

My frustration with Colbert's interviews may simply be that I want them to live up to the comic genius that is evident in the rest of the show and this includes the interviews that he has with the people who appear at his desk. He usually does a fine job there, so I believe that the actual interview portion at the end of the show could meet the same high standards as the other parts of the show.

I find myself so often yelling at the screen during the Colbert interviews for him to just shut up and last night, my frustration got the best of me.

[Hoof Hearted]

111. Holy shit on a stick! You can't stop yourself. Did you just learn Ctrl+C and Ctrl+V this week?

'Cause you're like a novice with a new skill gone out of control.

Do you believe this skill improves your credibility?

[The Vinyl Ripper]

18. I think the funniest part

Was when Naomi said something about creeping fascism and Colbert exclaimed "I know, it's taking *forever*"

I about busted a gut laughing..

[shance]

19. Jon Stewart has nothing over Stephen Colbert.

Jon Stewart could not have done one thousandth of what Colbert said at the Press dinner. He doesn't have the composition, the courage or the intellect.

He likes too much to be liked and plays it safe behind the safe curtain of marginal humor.

Stewart plays it safe, not to mention his protection of Israeli interests at the expense of what is actually happening in the Middle East.

Stewart doesn't necessarily condemn the war as being "immoral" just as either "a mess, badly managed" all the other typically safe misinformation.

Colbert goes for the real truth, come what may.

Mind you I didn't see tonight, however to compare Stewart to Colbert is akin to comparing Fred Astaire's dancing to Red Buttons.

No contest.

Stewart doesn't have it. He has his own agenda, not necessarily the truth.

[Exiled in America]

57. Oh for god's sake.

:eyes:

[Canuckistanian]

20. His interview with Garrison Keillor was bizarre

They talked about nothing, not even Keillor's devastating anti-* articles. It was painful to watch.

Colbert is NOT an interviewer. His interviews are just part of his schtick.

[Coexist]

36. I loved that interview and Keillor seemed to be having fun.

[OwnedByFerrets]

59. I loved that interview.....

after it was over, I told my wife "you can just see the admiration in Colberts eyes and hear it in his voice for his hero." He wasnt going to trash him like his character does so many of this guests.

[Canuckistanian]

76. Oh, yes, I agree with you

Colbert clearly seemed to respect and admire Keillor, but nothing of substance was talked about.
It was mostly about the weather in Minnesota.

To me, there seemed to be too many uncomfortable silences and silly looks on Colbert's face.

It just wasn't what I call a particularly riveting interview.

[OwnedByFerrets]

82. And, I agree completely with YOU......

I just dont know what they could have discussed without it getting into politics.....and in doing so, Colbert would have had to show disrespect for Garrison.

[girl gone mad]

21. I love his show..

but I think both he and Jon Stewart could use some tips on interviewing their guests.

[mac56]

26. I couldn't disagree more.

I think Jon Stewart is an excellent interviewer.

Colbert is playing a character. No comparison there.

[spooky3]

45. Stewart is an extraordinary interviewer--making

nearly every guest interesting, getting into some depth in such a sort time, challenging people who need to be challenged while being amusing and cordial, and of course being really well-informed.

[Radio_Lady]

92. I agree, in general, and I'm glad he got rid of that HOT SEAT gimmick.

I saw him with somebody in which he injected himself too much, but that's always a temptation in a discussion.

I was accused of doing this on call-in radio occasionally, but the problem is that there are breaks in these commercial shows and the host has to keep time, formulate his/her own thoughts after the guest speaks. It really is a talent to get it all right.

[Dervill Crow]

91. Years ago when I was in love with Scott Bakula I watched Jon interview him.

It was the first time I had ever even heard of Jon Stewart and he was great.

[WildEyedLiberal]

22. If Naomi Wolf wants to go on a show to make points, she shouldn't go on a comedy show

Everyone knows Colbert's schtick, and they know what they're getting into. I think Wolf probably knew what she was signing up for when she agreed to do the Colbert Report.

[kaygore]

72. It's not just Wolf

but the interviews in general too often lack the subtlety and genius of the other segments.

My frustration with so many of the Colbert interviews is that it is as if he is just trying to be an ass and argue and interrupt just to argue and interrupt.

In all fairness, I have never watched O'Reilly or any of the other shows that Colbert supposedly parodies; however, I find it hard to believe that they would still be on TV if all the host does is interrupt and shout over the guest.

But, more to the point, Colbert has the ability to parody but still slyly point out the truth. However, in his interviews most of the time, his genius fails. This may simply be that he is not good at interviews or his staff is not up to the task or they invite the wrong people.

The Daily Show is also comedy; however, Jon Stewart usually makes the interview equal to the genius of the rest of the show.

My frustration with Colbert's interviews may simply be that I want them to live up to the comic genius that is evident in the rest of the show and this includes the interviews that he has with the people who appear at his desk. He usually does a fine job there, so I believe that the actual interview portion at the end of the show could meet the same high standards as the other parts of the show.

I find myself so often yelling at the screen during the Colbert interviews for him to just shut up and last night, my frustration got the best of me.

[OmmmSweetOmmm]

23. Naomi Wolf got a venue to discuss her book and it was seen and will be seen by

millions. Even though she got only up to the 4th stage of a totalitarian take-over, Stephen was excellent at reinforcing what she said with his own style. She didn't have the time to get through all 10 of the blueprint, but she said enough to get some people to think and possibly go out and purchase her book.

[ima_sinnic]

27. that was my sense, too. in fact, I though SC was letting her get in more

than he usually does. I thought it was great, first of all, that he had her on at all, which in and of itself draws attention to her book, and also that he did let her make several points, which is more than he sometimes does, as mentioned above re Garrison Keillor. He has a talent for seeming to detract from a guest while at the same time putting even more attention on them. The guests' reactions to him make them very human and interesting. I think many many people came away from the show (1) with the knowledge that a book is out there about "the end" of America and (2) curious to know more. It would be interesting to find out whether there is any reflection of this "interview" in book sales.

[The Vinyl Ripper]

51. The killer comment came before Naomi

In the intro to the the show, SC said Naomi was coming on to talk about creeping fascism and then said "I know, it's taking *forever*".

I almost split my sides laughing..

[kaygore]

75. He let her make points, yes; but his reactions are not on par with the rest of the show

The interviews too often lack the subtlety and genius of the other segments.

My frustration with so many of the Colbert interviews is that it is as if he is just trying to be an ass and argue and interrupt just to argue and interrupt.

In all fairness, I have never watched O'Reilly or any of the other shows that Colbert supposedly parodies; however, I find it hard to believe that they would still be on TV if all the host does is interrupt and shout over the guest.

But, more to the point, Colbert has the ability to parody but still slyly point out the truth. However, in his interviews most of the time, his genius fails. This may simply be that he is not good at interviews or his staff is not up to the task or they invite the wrong people.

The Daily Show is also comedy; however, Jon Stewart usually makes the interview equal to the genius of the rest of the show.

My frustration with Colbert's interviews may simply be that I want them to live up to the comic genius that is evident in the rest of the show and this includes the interviews that he has with the people who appear at his desk. He usually does a fine job there, so I believe that the actual interview portion at the end of the show could meet the same high standards as the other parts of the show.

I find myself so often yelling at the screen during the Colbert interviews for him to just shut up and last night, my frustration got the best of me.

[kaygore]

74. No, the interviews are the weakest part if the show

The interviews too often lack the subtlety and genius of the other segments.

My frustration with so many of the Colbert interviews is that it is as if he is just trying to be an ass and argue and interrupt just to argue and interrupt.

In all fairness, I have never watched O'Reilly or any of the other shows that Colbert supposedly parodies; however, I find it hard to believe that they would still be on TV if all the host does is interrupt and shout over the guest.

But, more to the point, Colbert has the ability to parody but still slyly point out the truth. However, in his interviews most of the time, his genius fails. This may simply be that he is not good at interviews or his staff is not up to the task or they invite the wrong people.

The Daily Show is also comedy; however, Jon Stewart usually makes the interview equal to the genius of the rest of the show.

My frustration with Colbert's interviews may simply be that I want them to live up to the comic genius that is evident in the rest of the show and this includes the interviews that he has with the people who appear at his desk. He usually does a fine job there, so I believe that the actual interview portion at the end of the show could meet the same high standards as the other parts of the show.

I find myself so often yelling at the screen during the Colbert interviews for him to just shut up and last night, my frustration got the best of me.

[CreekDog]

101. What's your next rant? Caffeine in Starbucks?

Talk about not getting it and not getting it...OVER AND OVER.

[Red Zelda]

25. Colbert long ago jumped the shark

[bedazzled]

28. i discovered Richard Dawkins because he was on Colbert

colbert has very interesting guests, some of whom you might
not have heard before. this invites you to look into their
work yourself, which is colbert's point...

the guests seem to expect him to goof around, which is, after all,
his job... i adore colbert.

[rucky]

29. It's like a badge of honor for the guests.

They expect it. I know you want to hear her speak - she's captivating. That just wasn't the venue for it.

[frustrated_lefty]

32. Wow.

Guess you shouldn't watch? This same schtick is the venue where he had a rightwing congressman explain just why he used cocaine and then had a bible thumper able to list a total of 3 of the 10 commandments. It is a schtick, but he catches people with it sometimes.

Of all of the people to wish to shut up, your choice seems peculiar.

[CreekDog]

104. Or when he asked the Colorado congresswoman about the Mile High Club

I am sure she had heard of it, but she was smart and feigned total ignorance.

Great moment as Colbert tried to jog her memory.

[annabanana]

33. (clearly,, not an "it" getter)

Irony impairment is a terrible disease.

[Coexist]

38. where's the gut check?

btw- my teenage son wears his Saginaw Spirit shirt to school, and those who 'get it' love it!

[Bassic]

34. I agree. I rarely watch past the solitary part anymore.

But he fucking kicks ass in that part.

[Orsino]

37. That's strange. I thought he did a fine job...

...of propping up Wolf's points with his own ridiculous counterpoints. Sure, he didn't let her get through the whole long list, but she seemed to get the last word at every turn.

[Subdivisions]

39. This sort of thing is exactly why I now turn the channel after

John Stewart. Colbert had someone on I really wanted to hear from and he did his normal schtick and ruined any chance I had at hearing the guest. So, I have grown weary of his routine.

[OmmmSweetOmmm]

41. IMHO, the OP is very wrong. It's sad that you didn't watch Colbert last night and his

interview with Wolf was excellent.

[OmmmSweetOmmm]

50. If you have the time and inclination, I recommend that you view Colbert's

The Word from last night "Solitarity" It's at http://comedycentral.com right side of page under recent videos.

I recommend it because you have a thread on protests and I think you'll find it worth watching.

[Stinky The Clown]

43. What have we become when we complain that the news we want from a COMEDY show is 'stifled' for ....

...... actual comedy.

Don't complain about Colbert. He's doing his job. The target of your ire needs to be the actual news shows he parodies, dontcha think?

Here's a guide to how this might compare to other facets of the broadcast teevee industry:

Colbert = Comedy = Shtick = Parody = Meaninglessness

Actual News Show = Seriousness = Straight Faced Newsreader = Actual Broadcast for Grownups = Meaningful Inofrmation

[spooky3]

44. I'm a big fan (note my avatar) but agree with you sometimes

I think he can stay in character while interrupting less. Mimicking the most obnoxious O'Reilly mannerisms to the same degree--even in hilarious parody--can make one, well, obnoxious. And as you say, in the interviews, he sometimes prevents viewers from hearing a short message from someone we would really like to hear. I think he needs to dial it down a little.

[mondo joe]

47. Colbert's show isn't about saying "very important" things - it's comedy.

Yo might be well advised to just stop watching it altogether.

[YOY]

52. Colbert and his giant balls have earned the right to talk as much as he wants

Or did his roast of Preznit Dippy to his face irk you that much?

[femrap]

53. I've stopped watching as well.....

you're right. I want to hear what these people have to say.

[tammywammy]

54. Darn that comedy show not providing enough news!

:eyes:

[Beelzebud]

55. Just be thankful, as I am, that we have a sense of humor.

It must suck to go through life not being an it-getter.

[tammywammy]

56. I agree

:)

Laughter is always good.

[Exiled in America]

58. Yeah! You'd think he was running a comedy show instead of a news show!!

:eyes:

[CreekDog]

100. The OP probably buys Playboy for the articles

[DrunkenMaster]

79. Here's an Idea

Don't like it? Don't watch it! But don't tell him to "shut up" -- he can say whatever the f**k he feels like saying.

I really adore all the "stop saying that!" posts here at DU -- stop being "mean" to Hillary, stop being mean to the cops, Moveon can't say "Betray Us", etc, etc. I'm raising a finger in salute to you poor, abused wanna-be censors -- can you tell which one?

[durrrty libby]

80. It was a very good interview. She got all her points in.

[Sequoia]

83. I noticed that the other day when he was interviewing someone else.

He's been annoying me for months and I just don't care to watch him anymore. He gets on my nerves with all his carrying on about nothing. Shut up is right.

[TNOE]

87. I will just say this:

I had not heard of this book - even though I try to be very involved on political boards and in all political matters. Perhaps info about this book or author were posted and I missed it.

However, after seeing the show last night - I thought to myself - (1) I must get that book and (2) we need to try to get this woman on CSPAN, KO, and any and every other show possible. It was truly scary hearing what she had to say.

If I felt that way - I'm thinking at least quite a few others felt the same.

Mission Accomplished.

[Initech]

89. Colbert is hilarious, but I agree that he is a terrible interviewer.

[tomreedtoon]

94. Colbert is just showing why progressives lose!

His bit is comic - as noted, he tells everyone in advance that he's playing an asshole on television and that's the interviews he gives.

But the point is that if these people, like this tree-hugger referred to in the OP, ever faced a REAL asshole - an O'Reilly, a Coulter, a Limbaugh - they'd be just as screwed. They don't know how to argue. They don't know how to debate. They don't know how to handle hecklers. They, like the OP, expect politeness and when their inquisitioners aren't polite they're flummoxxed.

In fact, only one person within memory was able to flummox Colbert - when Jane Fonda sat on his lap and smooched him. Did anything this outside-the-box occur to this Wolf character? If faced with Bill O'Reilly's hate screed, would she pull a piece of falafel out of her purse and gently rub him all over the face with it?

Be angry at Colbert if you wish, but be honest; you're really angry at progressives because they lack the wit and intelligence and courage to get their messages across.

[XOKCowboy]

98. I thought she did great and Steven actually helped cement her points

with his pseudoRW comebacks. She made her points and then Steven gave her the last word and she ended the interview brilliantly IMHO.

It's a fake Faux News comedy format. Even if Steven hadn't interrupted her she'd barely had time to outline all of the points in her book and nobody watches Colbert exclusively for facts. Now some of his audience will go buy her book (I know that I will) and read all of what she had to say. See it's comedy with a point.

Sometimes people really need to lighten up and enjoy the fact that Dems/Progressives have a sense of humor. How are those Fox comedy shows doing???

[CreekDog]

99. You're the one who was complaining that Crank Yankers

Just call people to make fun of them.

[Lord Helmet]

103. Colbert is the man.

you just don't get him. Just turn your tv off.

[Name removed]

105. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[EFerrari]

107. I didn't know Skinner had hired Thought Police. n/t

[Quantess]

117. Are you just being mean to the newb? Stop it!

[Dervill Crow]

108. What's wrong with Lutherans?

I'm an agnostic turned Missouri Synod turned pagan, but I still cook like a Lutheran and raised my kids in the faith.

I was going to also ask what's wrong with dogs that are too funny, then I put on my glasses and read your post again. Never mind.

:rofl:

edited for typing BEFORE putting on glasses resulting in uncaught errant punctuation

[Manifestor_of_Light]

112. It wasn't PC but I enjoyed watching Jane Fonda molest him.

And compliment him endlessly.

:evilgrin:

[On the Road]

114. He's Painted Himself Into a Corner

by adopting that personality as the premise of the show. It really allows him no room to do the kind of interview that would be more educational.