The recent appearance of former Vice President Kamala Harris on CBS’s “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” quickly became a viral moment, sparking amusement and headlines across the entertainment news landscape. This highly anticipated interview marked a significant return to the public eye for Harris, offering insights into her life post-White House.
Kamala Harris, known for her prominent role in the 2024 presidential campaign, chose Colbert’s renowned late-night platform to promote her new book, “107 Days.” The interview was particularly notable as it represented her first significant media engagement since the election, drawing considerable attention from political observers and general audiences alike.
Stephen Colbert, a host celebrated for his sharp wit and often outspoken political commentary, especially regarding figures like Donald Trump, set the stage for an intriguing dialogue. His dynamic with Harris was a key element of the broadcast, as viewers anticipated a candid exchange given Colbert’s history of critical political discourse.
During a segment discussing her husband, Doug Emhoff’s, activities since her departure from the Vice Presidency, Harris shared, “Doug is really well, he back practicing law, and he’s great…” What seemed a straightforward update quickly devolved into a humorous misunderstanding, as Colbert famously misheard “back practicing” as “backpacking.”
The gaffe instantly became a highlight, with Stephen Colbert playfully teasing Harris about the imagined scenario. “You said he’s ‘back practicing law,’ for a second I thought you said, he’s ‘backpacking,'” Colbert quipped, leading to laughter from Harris and the studio audience. He further joked, “He’s in the Himalayas. He hasn’t turned on the news yet either,” amplifying the lighthearted confusion.
This televised political interview was more than just a comedic interlude; it signified Kamala Harris’s strategic re-engagement with the public after a period largely out of the political limelight. Her decision to discuss personal life elements, even leading to a TV gaffe, added a relatable dimension to her persona.
The timing of this high-profile appearance also coincided with significant news regarding “The Late Show” itself, as CBS announced the cancellation of the long-running talk show after a decade on air, citing financial considerations. This context added another layer of interest to Harris’s interview, making it one of the final significant moments on the show.
Harris also revealed during the political interview that she hadn’t watched the news “for months” when Donald Trump initially took office, a comment that underscored her past detachment from the daily political churn and her renewed public presence. The episode underscored the often unpredictable nature of live television and political figures interacting with entertainment media.
The exchange between Harris and Colbert underscored the human element in high-stakes political life, showcasing a moment of levity and genuine humor amidst the usual seriousness. This memorable appearance will undoubtedly be remembered as a unique blend of politics, entertainment, and an unforgettable TV gaffe.
