A dream lineup on Colbert’s show
The first week’s guests announced for the “Late Show With Stephen Colbert” make it clear that Colbert is bringing his eclectic taste to his new home on CBS. In the spirit of pure speculation, here’s a schedule that would put the host’s interview skills to good use while providing potential for watercooler chatter.
Monday: Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Rodham Clinton, comedian Jon Stewart, plus interview with and performance by singer-songwriter Courtney Barnett.
Why: The Democratic front-runner could use the boost a good-natured appearance on late-night TV could provide, and Colbert’s just the man to get to the bottom of that email business. As for Stewart, it’s never not a good time to reunite with Colbert. Barnett’s debut album, “Sometimes I Sit and Think, and Sometimes I Just Sit,” was widely acclaimed.
Tuesday: GOP presidential candidate Donald Trump, comedian Tig Notaro, plus interview with and performance by Beyoncé.
Why: Colbert has gone on the record about how desperate he is to discuss Trump on the show, so one can imagine what might transpire with Trump sitting across the desk. Only incisive comedian Notaro could follow Trump. Beyoncé’s inclusion seems selfexplanatory.
Wednesday: Tennis star Serena Williams, composer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim, plus an interview with and musical performance by John Legend.
Why: Williams is arguably the most dominant athlete in any given sport now. Colbert appeared in the 2011 New York Philharmonic production of Sondheim’s “Company” and is a musical theater fan. Legend is a magnetic performer.
Thursday: Supreme Court Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Antonin Scalia, plus an interview with and musical performance by Taylor Swift.
Why: The justices have come to represent the yin and yang of politics. Taylor Swift’s neutral, inoffensive musicality would be the palette cleanser.
Friday: Pope Francis, comedian Bill Cosby, plus an interview with and musical performance by Sleater-Kinney.
Why: Colbert, a practicing Catholic, would likely find a lot to discuss with the pope. As for Cosby, it’s only a matter of time before the embattled comedian tries to rehabilitate his image after accusations of sexual assault. Sleater-Kinney is back after a long hiatus.