In a refreshing departure from the relentless scrutiny surrounding his tell-all book, Prince Harry appeared on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert for an interview that was both revealing and light-hearted.
Taped in New York City on Monday night and aired on Tuesday, the segment saw Colbert playfully teasing the 38-year-old royal on multiple occasions.
The interview began with Colbert jokingly thanking Harry for bringing in the crowd.
This unexpected comment set the tone for a candid conversation that would unfold throughout the show.
However, Harry faced backlash from fans after it was revealed that he had chosen to film the interview earlier and would not be making a live appearance.
Colbert explained to his audience that the decision to pre-record the interview was due to security concerns.
This left some attendees at the Ed Sullivan Theatre disappointed and angry, especially those who had traveled from various parts of the state to see the Duke of Sussex in person.
The program, which typically runs for two hours, ended after just one hour, leaving some disgruntled audience members feeling shortchanged.
The show’s opening skit added to the playful atmosphere as Colbert rolled out a backstage red carpet accompanied by trumpet heralds.
However, it soon became clear that the grand entrance was not intended for Harry but for the previous night’s guest, Tom Hanks.
Colbert humorously redirected Harry, telling him to step aside as Hanks received a military salute.
Acknowledging the potential nerves Harry may have had, Colbert offered him a glass of tequila, which the Prince gladly accepted.
This gesture aimed to ease Harry into discussing the controversial topics explored in his memoir.
Some viewers found this contradictory, as Harry had previously shared his struggles with alcohol and substance abuse as coping mechanisms for his mental health issues.
Critics argue that this move by Colbert may exploit Harry’s mental health problems and send a negative message to those facing similar challenges.
They question the appropriateness of using alcohol to promote a book that delves into inherited genetic trauma.
However, others speculate that Colbert may have been playing along with a joke or comment Harry made about needing tequila shots during his press tour.
Despite the debate surrounding the tequila moment, the interview shed light on Harry’s ongoing battle with mental health and his journey of personal growth.
Since stepping away from the royal family, he has been vocal about his struggles and the importance of mental health awareness.
Some see Colbert’s decision to let Harry be himself as a smart move, allowing the audience to witness the real Prince Harry.
Stephen Colbert, known for his social and political consciousness, has consistently positioned himself as a different kind of celebrity.
By providing a platform for Harry to discuss his experiences, Colbert continues to demonstrate his commitment to engaging in meaningful conversations.
In conclusion, Prince Harry’s interview on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert was a mix of lighthearted banter and serious discussions about mental health.
While some criticized the use of alcohol as a promotional tool, others saw it as an opportunity for Harry to authentically share his story.
Regardless of opinions, this interview offered viewers a glimpse into the real Harry and showcased Colbert’s dedication to thought-provoking content.