Colbert's Monologue Targets RFK Jr's Surreal Workout and Trump Poll Data
Despite feeling under the weather, Stephen Colbert delivered a sharp monologue on The Late Show, taking aim at Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s unusual workout video with Kid Rock and recent polling data about former President Donald Trump. Colbert joked he was "on enough steroids to be named the secretary of health and human services," setting the tone for a night of political satire.
RFK Jr.'s 'Senior Softcore' Workout Video Draws Scrutiny
Colbert focused heavily on a bizarre clip titled "Rock Out Work Out," featuring RFK Jr. and Kid Rock exercising amidst shark attacks, taxidermied bears, and American flags. He described it as "senior softcore" and quipped, "Why does this make you feel like you dropped acid at a Cracker Barrel?" The host mocked Kennedy's attire, noting he worked out in tight jeans and took a clothed dip in a cold plunge bath.
Colbert questioned the practicality of the jeans, asking if they were permanently attached like action figure legs. He humorously speculated the video resembled "RFK Jr. picking up a drifter at the carnival as he's fattening him up to eat," rather than a friendly workout session. Colbert also critiqued the sauna scene, remarking it was for unintended encounters, not denim workouts.
Lighter Moments: Baby Monkey Punch and Tribute to Jesse Jackson
Shifting to a lighter topic, Colbert discussed Punch, a six-month-old macaque monkey who gained internet fame after being rejected by his mother. The baby monkey found comfort in a Djungelskog orangutan plushie from Ikea, which Colbert purchased for $19.99, citing universal need for comfort. The audience cooed as he presented the stuffed toy.
Colbert also paid tribute to civil rights leader Jesse Jackson, who died at 84, calling him a "compassionate leader" in short supply today. This segment provided a poignant contrast to the evening's comedic critiques.
Poll Reveals Americans' Views on Trump's Character
The monologue returned to politics with a discussion of an Economist/YouGov poll, where 47% of Americans labeled Donald Trump as racist. Colbert noted it was "not a great sign" such a question seemed reasonable in a poll. The data showed:
- 49% described Trump as corrupt
- 46% called him cruel
- 50% said he was dangerous
Colbert joked about the latter statistic, asking if "ladies love a bad boy," eliciting roars of disapproval from the audience. This blend of humor and hard data highlighted ongoing public divisions.
Overall, Colbert's episode masterfully mixed satire with serious commentary, from mocking RFK Jr.'s eccentric video to reflecting on Trump's poll numbers and honoring Jackson's legacy.
