The Colbert Report
The Colbert Report: Season 8

Air Date

October 3, 2011

Episodes

155 episodes

The Colbert Report

Season 8

Episodes

Jerome Groopman

1. Jerome Groopman

October 3, 2011

Rick Perry's hunting camp once bore a racially charged name, Obamacare heads to the Supreme Court, and Jerome Groopman discusses medical decision-making.

John Lithgow

2. John Lithgow

October 4, 2011

Rick Davis weighs in on Chris Christie fever, ESPN pulls Hank Williams Jr.'s song, and John Lithgow talks drama.

Black Star

3. Black Star

October 5, 2011

Herman Cain gives his take on homosexuality, Mexico City proposes two-year marriage licenses, and Black Star performs.

Jason Amerine

4. Jason Amerine

October 6, 2011

Sarah Palin bows out of the presidential race, Stephen apologizes to Karl Rove, and Lieutenant Colonel Jason Amerine discusses the early days of the Afghanistan War.

Harry Belafonte

5. Harry Belafonte

October 17, 2011

The Occupy Wall Street movement goes global, Stephen unveils Colbert Super PAC's NBA lockout ad, and Harry Belafonte talks political activism.

Steven Pinker

6. Steven Pinker

October 18, 2011

Herman Cain may or may not be joking about an electrified border fence, schools take potatoes off their menus, and Steven Pinker discusses the decline of human violence.

Ali Soufan

7. Ali Soufan

October 19, 2011

Herman Cain blames the unemployed, Republican candidates want to end EPA regulations, and Ali Soufan provides an inside look at the war on terror.

Coldplay

8. Coldplay

October 20, 2011

Libyan rebels kill Muammar al-Gaddafi, Tea Party Nation demands a hiring freeze from its members, and Coldplay perform from "Mylo Xyloto."

Jon Huntsman

9. Jon Huntsman

October 24, 2011

Stephen unveils Colbert Super PAC's message, Frank Luntz conducts a focus group, and GOP presidential candidate Jon Huntsman talks about fixing America.

Susan Saladoff

10. Susan Saladoff

October 25, 2011

Herman Cain's campaign ad gets buzz, Ben & Jerry's endorses Occupy Wall Street, and Susan Saladoff explores the myth of frivolous lawsuits.

Taylor Branch

11. Taylor Branch

October 26, 2011

PETA files a lawsuit to free captive whales, immigrant farm workers flee Alabama, and Taylor Branch discusses the multi-billion dollar college sports industry.

Toby Keith

12. Toby Keith

October 27, 2011

Occupy Wall Street wears out its welcome, Stephen unveils his second NBA lockout Super PAC ad, and Toby Keith performs.

Neil MacGregor

13. Neil MacGregor

October 31, 2011

Stephen joins Occupy Wall Street, Wisconsin allows concealed weapons in its Capitol, and Neil MacGregor tells the history of the world with 100 objects.

Yo-Yo Ma

14. Yo-Yo Ma

November 1, 2011

Herman Cain's sexual harassment controversy unfolds; Stephen returns to Wall Street; and Yo-Yo Ma, Stuart Duncan, Edgar Meyer and Chris Thile perform.

Michael Pollan

15. Michael Pollan

November 2, 2011

Herman Cain discusses the Chinese nuclear threat, the government releases information on Muffingate, and Michael Pollan talks food.

Nathan Wolfe

16. Nathan Wolfe

November 3, 2011

Hans Beinholtz hawks Europe to investors, Colbert Super PAC adopts Herman Cain's fundraising strategy, and Nathan Wolfe examines viral pandemics.

Niall Ferguson

17. Niall Ferguson

November 7, 2011

Make Us Great Again airs its Rick Perry ad, Colbert Super PAC takes on issue advocacy, and Niall Ferguson discusses the end of western dominance.

Seth Meyers

18. Seth Meyers

November 8, 2011

Herman Cain holds a press conference to address sexual harassment charges, Stephen saves Christmas, and Seth Meyers talks "Saturday Night Live."

Father James Martin

19. Father James Martin

November 9, 2011

Herman Cain blames Democrats for his troubles, Michigan Senate Republicans amend an anti-bullying bill, and Father James Martin explores the role of comedy in religion.

Brian Eno

20. Brian Eno

November 10, 2011

Barack Obama plans to station U.S. troops in Australia, Rick Perry bungles another debate, and Brian Eno sings a cappella with Michael Stipe and Stephen.

Thomas Thwaites

21. Thomas Thwaites

November 14, 2011

Michele Bachmann gets an e-mail snub, Bill McKibben opposes construction of the Keystone XL pipeline, and Thomas Thwaites talks toasters.

Elijah Wood

22. Elijah Wood

November 15, 2011

The NYPD dismantles Occupy Wall Street, investors accuse Goldline International of theft, and Elijah Wood talks Middle-earth and penguins.

Chris Matthews

23. Chris Matthews

November 16, 2011

Newt Gingrich defends his Greek cruise, Ron Paul supporters publish a pin-up calendar, and Chris Matthews discusses John F. Kennedy's elusive heroism.

Susan Orlean

24. Susan Orlean

November 17, 2011

People Magazine picks its sexiest man, the congressional super committee eyes veterans' healthcare benefits, and Susan Orlean discusses the life of Rin Tin Tin.

Siddhartha Mukherjee

25. Siddhartha Mukherjee

November 28, 2011

Barack Obama omits God from his online Thanksgiving address, CNN lays off staffers in favor of user-generated content, and Siddhartha Mukherjee researches cancer.

Tinariwen

26. Tinariwen

November 29, 2011

Herman Cain rethinks his candidacy, Pope Benedict XVI gets caught breaking the law, and Malian musical group Tinariwen performs.

Stephen Sondheim

27. Stephen Sondheim

November 30, 2011

Newt Gingrich denies lobbying, conservatives bid Barney Frank farewell, and Stephen Sondheim ponders the artist life.

Richard Branson

28. Richard Branson

December 1, 2011

Senator Lori Klein defends Herman Cain, Bret Baier grills Mitt Romney, and Richard Branson explains why he wants to screw business as usual.

Jimmie Johnson

29. Jimmie Johnson

December 5, 2011

Herman Cain abandons his campaign, William Tapley studies apocalyptic signs, and Jimmie Johnson reveals NASCAR racing details.

The Black Keys

30. The Black Keys

December 6, 2011

Iran claims to have captured an American drone, Donald Trump organizes his own GOP debate, and The Black Keys perform.

David Hallberg

31. David Hallberg

December 7, 2011

Stephen sets the date for his GOP debate, Dick Harpootlian helps Colbert Super PAC with its referendum, and ballet dancer David Hallberg performs.

Jack Abramoff

32. Jack Abramoff

December 8, 2011

Rick Perry puts out a controversial ad, doctors perform fecal transplants, and Jack Abramoff exposes the truth about Washington corruption.

Samuel L. Jackson

33. Samuel L. Jackson

December 12, 2011

Newt Gingrich alerts America to electromagnetic threats, Norway faces a butter crisis, and Samuel L. Jackson considers Martin Luther King Jr.'s personal life.

Mark Whitaker

34. Mark Whitaker

December 13, 2011

Donald Trump backs out of his debate, Madison charges protesters for the right to protest, and Mark Whitaker pays tribute to his parents with his memoir.

Raymond Odierno

35. Raymond Odierno

December 14, 2011

Christine O'Donnell backs Mitt Romney, Michele Bachmann frets over military bestiality, and Ray Odierno celebrates the troops homecoming from Iraq.

Daniel Craig

36. Daniel Craig

December 15, 2011

Nat Geo Wild pulls out their lion humping footage and Animal Planet sends honeydew melons to get in on Stephen's debate. Megyn Kelly clarifies that Mitt Romney and Barack Obama are not the same person. Daniel Craig reveals his technique for staying sexy and arm-wrestles Stephen.

Sen. Bernie Sanders

37. Sen. Bernie Sanders

January 3, 2012

Rick Santorum rises in the polls, Stephen remembers the late Kim Jong-il, and Bernie Sanders strives to overturn the Citizens United decision.

John Heilemann

38. John Heilemann

January 4, 2012

Mitt Romney qualifies his Iowa caucus victory with a familiar speech, Newt Gingrich calls Mitt Romney a liar, and John Heilemann weighs in on the GOP frontrunners.

Steve Case

39. Steve Case

January 5, 2012

George Will thinks that Rick Santorum is fun, Pat Robertson gets a message from God, and Steve Case explores the benefits of sharing.

Melissa Harris-Perry

40. Melissa Harris-Perry

January 9, 2012

Back-to-back New Hampshire GOP debates unfold, Rick Santorum offends African Americans, and Melissa Harris-Perry considers American history from a black female perspective.

Bill Moyers

41. Bill Moyers

January 10, 2012

Mitt Romney takes heat for a firing gaffe, conservative pundits attack White House celebrations, and Bill Moyers considers corporate personhood a threat to democracy.

George Stephanopoulos

42. George Stephanopoulos

January 11, 2012

Mitt Romney wins in New Hampshire, a Russian spacecraft threatens the Earth, and George Stephanopoulos weighs in on the GOP frontrunners.

Mike Allen

43. Mike Allen

January 12, 2012

Jon Stewart adopts the Colbert Super PAC, Stephen makes a monumental announcement, and Mike Allen anticipates Stephen's possible South Carolina results.

Scott Douglas

44. Scott Douglas

January 16, 2012

Jon Stewart puts out an attack ad, Jon Huntsman withdraws from the presidential race, and Scott Douglas takes a stand against Alabama's anti-immigrant law.

Jennifer Granholm

45. Jennifer Granholm

January 17, 2012

A controversial Colbert Super PAC ad surfaces, pastor Ed Young leads a sexperimental crusade, and Jennifer Granholm confesses secrets from her past.

David Frum

46. David Frum

January 18, 2012

Mitt Romney faces questions about his tax rate, Stephen announces his South Carolina rally, and David Frum shares his hopes for the Republican Party.

Carrie Rebora Barratt

47. Carrie Rebora Barratt

January 19, 2012

Rick Perry drops out of the GOP race, Newt Gingrich's ex-wife exposes his controversial marital request, and Carrie Rebora Barratt discusses historical American art.

Bruce Bueno De Mesquita

48. Bruce Bueno De Mesquita

January 23, 2012

Newt Gingrich wins South Carolina, Stephen recalls the South Cain-olina Primary Rally with Herman Cain, and Bruce Bueno de Mesquita explores the applications of game theory.

Andrew Sullivan

49. Andrew Sullivan

January 24, 2012

Rick Santorum panders to the elderly, Maurice Sendak discusses his literary work, and Andrew Sullivan praises Barack Obama's greatest accomplishments.

Terry Gross

50. Terry Gross

January 25, 2012

Barack Obama delivers his State of the Union address, Maurice Sendak gives Stephen a storybook ending, and Terry Gross provides a fresh perspective on Bill O'Reilly.

Drew Barrymore

51. Drew Barrymore

January 26, 2012

Newt Gingrich and Mitt Romney woo Florida; John Harwood, Katrina vanden Heuvel and David Cassidy answer hard-hitting questions; and Drew Barrymore considers an "E.T." prequel.

Laurence H. Tribe

52. Laurence H. Tribe

January 30, 2012

Stephen repossesses the Colbert Super PAC, Newt Gingrich and Mitt Romney compete for the Hispanic vote in Florida, and Laurence Tribe explores constitutional law.

Björk

53. Björk

January 31, 2012

Sarah Palin spitefully endorses Newt Gingrich, Tennessee Tea Partiers strive to remove slavery from school textbooks, and Björk explores new methods for creating music.

Ameena Matthews

54. Ameena Matthews

February 1, 2012

Mitt Romney beats Newt Gingrich in Florida, Stephen announces Americone Dream's 2012 election edition packaging, and Ameena Matthews strives to end gang violence.

Christiane Amanpour

55. Christiane Amanpour

February 2, 2012

Stephen unveils GOP super PACs' biggest donors, Newt Gingrich faces a copyright infringement lawsuit, and Christiane Amanpour examines Iran's political environment.

Bill McKibben

56. Bill McKibben

February 13, 2012

The New York Knicks' Jeremy Lin seduces America, Stephen writes a love letter to Jimmy Fallon, and Bill McKibben fights the Keystone XL pipeline.

William J. Broad

57. William J. Broad

February 14, 2012

Catholics oppose the Obama administration's birth control mandate, a Seattle woman marries a building, and William Broad considers the effects of yoga on the mind and body.

Ann Patchett

58. Ann Patchett

February 20, 2012

Mitt Romney deploys Donald Trump in Michigan, Rick Santorum attacks environmentalists, and Ann Patchett fights to revive bookstores.

Robert Kagan

59. Robert Kagan

February 21, 2012

Prince Pierre Casiraghi of Monaco sustains a beating, Nancy Pelosi slams Colbert Super PAC, and Robert Kagan examines Iran's potential nuclear threat.

Nancy Pelosi

60. Nancy Pelosi

February 22, 2012

Stephen gives up something he truly enjoys for Lent, Target knows when customers miss their periods, and Nancy Pelosi objects to super PACs.

Placido Domingo

61. Placido Domingo

February 23, 2012

Mitt Romney wins the Arizona GOP debate, Elie Wiesel protests the Mormon conversion of dead Jews, and Placido Domingo discusses his operatic performances.

Peggielene Bartels

62. Peggielene Bartels

February 27, 2012

The Oscars' liberal clusterfarce unfolds, Rick Santorum criticizes Barack Obama's promotion of higher learning, and Peggielene Bartels talks about her kingship.

Ross Eisenbrey

63. Ross Eisenbrey

February 28, 2012

The Colbert Report airs its 1000th episode, rising oil prices threaten Barack Obama's approval rating, and Ross Eisenbrey examines the problem of unpaid labor.

William Shatner

64. William Shatner

February 29, 2012

Mitt Romney takes Michigan, researchers develop a male birth control pill, and William Shatner revels in his own beauty.

Claire Danes

65. Claire Danes

March 1, 2012

Republicans eye Jeb Bush as a potential GOP candidate, researchers discover a 3500-year-old "Yo Mama" joke, and Claire Danes discusses mental health.

Audra McDonald

66. Audra McDonald

March 5, 2012

Host Stephen Colbert interviews Audra McDonald and discusses the day's news and important topics.

Jonathan Safran Foer

67. Jonathan Safran Foer

March 6, 2012

Stephen prepares a Super Tuesday tailgating party, Attorney General Holder redefines due process, candy bars shrink, and Jonathan Safran Foer talks Passover traditions.

Willem Dafoe

68. Willem Dafoe

March 7, 2012

Stephen prepares for Super Tuesday results, CNN visits a virtual Republican National Convention, Iran poses a new threat, and Willem Dafoe goes Martian for "John Carter."

Don Fleming, Elvis Costello, & Emmylou Harris

69. Don Fleming, Elvis Costello, & Emmylou Harris

March 8, 2012

Stephen prank calls Eric Bolling, is inspired by Herman Cain's avant-garde ad, and talks folk music with Elvis Costello, Emmylou Harris and Don Fleming.

Katherine Boo

70. Katherine Boo

March 12, 2012

The Republican Southern primary leads to blue collar pandering, Dave "Mudcat" Saunders talks Southern strategy, and Katherine Boo discusses poverty and Mumbai's slums.

Andrew Bird

71. Andrew Bird

March 13, 2012

Seattle's Pop Conference overlooks Stephen's dissertation; Pat Robertson and Muslim-American reality shows pose threats; and Andrew Bird performs "Eyeoneye."

Mark McKinnon

72. Mark McKinnon

March 14, 2012

Greg Smith is a "Banker-dict Arnold," Rick Santorum condemns teleprompters, Kermit the Frog weighs in on the GOP primary race, and Mark McKinnon talks about reforming Congress.

Dexter Filkins

73. Dexter Filkins

March 15, 2012

Stephen is suspicious of geriatric jihadists, Rick Santorum speaks from his heart, and Dexter Filkins tells Stephen why we need other countries.

David Page

74. David Page

March 26, 2012

Geraldo Rivera blames the Trayvon Martin shooting on hoodies, Mitt Romney boosts Etch a Sketch sales, and biomedical researcher Dr. David Page defends the Y chromosome.

Charles Murray

75. Charles Murray

March 27, 2012

Host Stephen Colbert interviews Charles Murray and discusses the day's news and important topics.

Mark Ruffalo

76. Mark Ruffalo

March 28, 2012

The Supreme Court weighs in on Obamacare, a new magazine targets conservative teens, and Mark Ruffalo discusses the dangers of fracking.

Peter Beinart

77. Peter Beinart

March 29, 2012

Stephen involves college students with Colbert Super PAC, Mitt Romney tries comedy, and Peter Beinart discusses Israel.

Gary Johnson

78. Gary Johnson

April 2, 2012

College students order up Colbert Super PAC's Super Fun Pack, beef state governors defend pink slime, and Governor Gary Johnson runs as the 2012 Libertarian candidate.

Nikki Haley

79. Nikki Haley

April 3, 2012

Colbert Super PAC Super Fun Pack adds not-legal advice, Colbert Super PAC SHH! faces scrutiny, Rick Santorum speaks from his heart, and Governor Nikki Haley challenges Stephen.

Robert Ballard

80. Robert Ballard

April 4, 2012

Colbert Super PAC segments earn a Peabody award, Mitt Romney must appeal to Latino voters, Quaker Oats gets a facelift, and deep sea explorer Robert Ballard talks Titanic.

Anne Rice

81. Anne Rice

April 5, 2012

Unemployment drops, Colbert's Very Wanted tracks a mailbox mutilator, a biker brightens Stephen's commute, and Anne Rice deals with werewolf psychology in "The Wolf Gift."

Bob Lutz

82. Bob Lutz

April 9, 2012

The Easter Bunny meets competition down under, Mitt Romney reaps a potential running mate, Germany's elderly gymnast depresses Stephen, and Bob Lutz talks car business.

Richard Hersh

83. Richard Hersh

April 10, 2012

Rick Santorum drops his presidential campaign, the EPA sets coal industry regulations, Stephen honors male "Lady Heroes," and Richard Hersh examines higher education.

Michelle Obama

84. Michelle Obama

April 11, 2012

Troops and their families face unique economic challenges, Stephen trains a Marine to be a pundit, and Michelle Obama voices support for military families.

James Cameron

85. James Cameron

April 12, 2012

Mitt Romney flips the "war on women" script with the help of Hilary Rosen, survivalist singles embrace online dating, and director James Cameron talks "Titanic 3D."

Bonnie Raitt

86. Bonnie Raitt

April 16, 2012

The Secret Service commits a sex scandal, Newt Gingrich endorses global gun rights, and blues performer Bonnie Raitt sings from her album "Slipstream."

Jonah Lehrer

87. Jonah Lehrer

April 17, 2012

Mitt Romney reveals his prankster side, insects add color to Starbucks drinks, GSA spending sparks outrage, and Jonah Lehrer explores creativity.

Arianna Huffington

88. Arianna Huffington

April 18, 2012

Mitt Romney seeks a bland running mate, Tennessee outlaws "gateway sexual activity" education, survivalists plan for the unthinkable, and Arianna Huffington talks journalism.

Tavis Smiley & Cornel West

89. Tavis Smiley & Cornel West

April 19, 2012

Cory Booker saves one of his constituents, bologna smuggling is on the rise, Time Magazine honors Stephen, and guests Tavis Smiley and Cornel West talk poverty in America.

Don McLeroy

90. Don McLeroy

April 23, 2012

Steve Doocy reports on Barack Obama's subtext, Arizona redefines pregnancy, Mitt Romney insults a Pittsburgh bakery, and Don McLeroy discusses textbook standards.

Magnus Carlsen

91. Magnus Carlsen

April 24, 2012

Super Tuesday II goes live, Stephen plugs his children's book, Julie Andrews discusses fairy tales, Canada creates a bioluminescent coin, and Magnus Carlsen talks chess.

Michael Sandel

92. Michael Sandel

April 25, 2012

NASA shuts down its "Spacebook" site, some blame immigrants for global warming, feeding tube diets gain popularity, and Michael Sandel considers market ethics.

Jack White

93. Jack White

April 26, 2012

Republicans attack Barack Obama's slow jam, Stephen releases the first Super Fun Pack treasure hunt clue, and Jack White discusses his solo album and rare marketing ploy.

Diane Keaton

94. Diane Keaton

April 30, 2012

Chen Guangcheng escapes house arrest, Missouri wants to outlaw sexuality dialogue in schools, companies offer "concealed carry" clothing, and Diane Keaton promotes her memoir.

Carne Ross

95. Carne Ross

May 1, 2012

Barack Obama makes an Osama bin Laden ad, Paul Ryan plans cuts to poor people, Rev. Thomas Reese contests Paul Ryan's budget, and Carne Ross recommends leaderless democracy.

Jonathan Haidt

96. Jonathan Haidt

May 2, 2012

Designers craft a Richard Branson ice mold, debt collectors infiltrate hospitals, Germany censures Kermit the Frog, and Jonathan Haidt discusses conflict and politics.

Lena Dunham

97. Lena Dunham

May 3, 2012

Newt Gingrich suspends his campaign and backs Mitt Romney, Stephen tracks a Super PAC rival, Buzz Aldrin presents a space award, and writer Lena Dunham talks "Girls."

Andy Cohen

98. Andy Cohen

May 7, 2012

L.A. teens drink Purell, Joe Biden supports same-sex marriage, Eric McCormack plays a straight man, bears hijack broadcasting, and TV host Andy Cohen talks entertainment.

Michelle Alexander

99. Michelle Alexander

May 8, 2012

Billionaires need donor anonymity, Claire McCaskill opposes secret money, Stephen honors the late Maurice Sendak, and Michelle Alexander examines racial inequality.

Anna Wintour

100. Anna Wintour

May 9, 2012

An ex-Playmate jolts Mexico's debate, North Carolina snubs gay marriage as Barack Obama backs it, Jon McNaughton paints socialist America, and Anna Wintour talks fashion.

Dr. Francis Collins

101. Dr. Francis Collins

May 10, 2012

Stephen salutes Mother's Day, Barack Obama rejects Jesus, gay strokes and monkeys threaten America, Republicans forge identities, and Francis Collins examines obesit

Charlize Theron

102. Charlize Theron

May 29, 2012

Donald Trump makes a contentious claim, Egypt kicks off its presidential elections, and Charlize Theron discusses her film "Snow White and the Huntsman."

Alan Alda

103. Alan Alda

May 30, 2012

A Mexican cartel burns down PepsiCo, gay bars target bachelorettes, Mitt Romney breaks into iPhone apps, Robert Mugabe heads global tourism, and Alan Alda talks science.

Jack Hitt

104. Jack Hitt

May 31, 2012

"I Am a Pole (And So Can You!)" gains Best Seller status, the Obama administration redefines "combatants," Michael Bloomberg confronts soda, and Jack Hitt talks amateurism.

John Lewis

105. John Lewis

June 4, 2012

America's leaders talk like teens, North Carolina bans climate change models, Represent-O-Map 6000 fuels BKAD bookings, and John Lewis describes the civil rights movement.

Jill Biden

106. Jill Biden

June 5, 2012

The CDC denies the zombie apocalypse, America exports the most sperm, a North Dakota woman marries herself, and Dr. Jill Biden reflects on teaching and troops.

Neil Patrick Harris

107. Neil Patrick Harris

June 6, 2012

The private sector plans Mars reality TV, Scott Walker prevails in Wisconsin, an Arkansas town bans bingo, Neil Patrick Harris talks theater, and Stephen honors Ray Bradbury.

Regina Spektor

108. Regina Spektor

June 7, 2012

Pakistan's "Sesame Street" faces corruption, Mitt Romney's house meets critique, a pig divides America, and singer Regina Spektor talks about music and Russia.

Martin Sheen

109. Martin Sheen

June 11, 2012

Neil deGrasse Tyson wrecks movies, the Church scorns a nun's sex book, Simone Campbell explores service, the Banana Bunker prevents bruising, and Martin Sheen talks acting.

Will Allen

110. Will Allen

June 12, 2012

Mitt Romney owns a competition horse, the U.S. leaks anti-terror info, Barack Obama blunders, Stephen seeks Sweden's Twitter, and Will Allen talks urban farms.

Greg Allman

111. Greg Allman

June 13, 2012

Niagara Falls welcomes a stuntman, cafeteria workers demand expired food, orangutans operate iPads, and Gregg Allman recalls his rock 'n' roll past.

Steve Coll

112. Steve Coll

June 14, 2012

Marijuana legalization can win elections, Super PACs raise more money than ad space, Xiaflex treatment corrects curved penises, and Steve Coll examines ExxonMobil.

Paul Krugman

113. Paul Krugman

June 18, 2012

Barack Obama changes immigration policy, Neil Munro interrupts the president, Sweden confronts Stephen's Twitter-control crusade, and Paul Krugman talks economic strategy.

Olivia Wilde

114. Olivia Wilde

June 19, 2012

John Kerry plays Mitt Romney in practice debates, Stephen invents a dressage tradition, PooPrints tracks suburban dog waste, and Olivia Wilde talks Maxim and politics.

Daniel Klaidman

115. Daniel Klaidman

June 20, 2012

Asians outnumber Mexican immigrants, the "Fast and Furious" scandal proves complex, a gun control ad causes controversy, and Daniel Klaidman examines the war on terror.

Lawrence Krauss

116. Lawrence Krauss

June 21, 2012

Officials delay Egypt's presidential election, penguins engage in erotic sex, Stephen sings to Sweden's Twitter executives, and Lawrence Krauss discusses the universe.

Frank Deford

117. Frank Deford

June 25, 2012

The Supreme Court postpones Obamacare rulings, Mitt Romney asks Florida to limit good jobs news, teens abuse drugs to study better, and Frank Deford explores sports writing.

Richard Ford

118. Richard Ford

June 26, 2012

Arizona pursues state immigration laws, Pixar flaunts its gay agenda, Dish Network's AutoHop removes all TV ads, and writer Richard Ford talks about his novel "Canada."

Melinda Gates

119. Melinda Gates

June 27, 2012

Democrats lack money for the national convention, Mike Turzai sparks Voter ID controversy, Oreo cookies come out of the closet, and Melinda Gates explores family planning.

Aaron Sorkin

120. Aaron Sorkin

June 28, 2012

Obamacare passes as constitutional, Republicans slam John Roberts, Emily Bazelon explains the Obamacare tax, and Aaron Sorkin romanticizes TV journalism in "The Newsroom."

Anne-Marie Slaughter

121. Anne-Marie Slaughter

July 16, 2012

Katie Holmes divorces Tom Cruise, Mitt Romney retroactively retires from Bain Capital, Starbucks hits funeral homes, and Anne-Marie Slaughter talks career choice and family.

Nas

122. Nas

July 17, 2012

Nevada's presidential ballot threatens Mitt Romney, Texas Republicans reject critical thinking education, the Rosenbach Museum honors Stephen, and Nas talks hip-hop.

Mayor Annise D. Parker

123. Mayor Annise D. Parker

July 18, 2012

Mitt Romney spotlights struggling waiters, tablet computers go Christian, Def Leppard covers its songs, and Houston Mayor Annise Parker talks business and gay marriage.

Lisa Jackson

124. Lisa Jackson

July 19, 2012

Police bust Fred Willard for lewd conduct, Dave Leonhardt explores the Libor scandal, Canadians out-earn Americans, and Lisa Jackson talks green standards.

Vikram Gandhi

125. Vikram Gandhi

July 23, 2012

Mike Tyson bails on The Report, liberal shills love Shepard Smith, pundits speculate about James Holmes' political ties, and filmmaker Vikram Gandhi explores made-up philosophy.

James Fallows

126. James Fallows

July 24, 2012

Late night television causes depression, America faces a disastrous drought, NASA schedules vegan meals, and James Fallows explores China's aerospace business.

Dan Gross

127. Dan Gross

July 25, 2012

Mitt Romney values his Anglo-Saxon heritage, Barack Obama discusses entrepreneurship, "Fifty Shades of Grey" reaches hotels, and Dan Gross shares his gun control campaign.

Peter Westmacott

128. Peter Westmacott

July 26, 2012

Engineers enhance Olympic sounds, Mitt Romney offends England, Chick-Fil-A opposes gay marriage, and Peter Westmacott discusses the summer Olympic games.

Joan Rivers

129. Joan Rivers

July 30, 2012

Danny Boyle directs the 2012 Olympics opening ceremony, Mitt Romney lacks dressage expertise, Tony Robbins' fire stunt burns participants, and Joan Rivers shares her memoir.

Jeff Koons

130. Jeff Koons

July 31, 2012

Mitt Romney's press secretary lashes out, Rafalca delays Mitt's VP announcement, Colbert Nation plans for StePhest Colbchella '012, and Jeff Koons explores arts education.

John Grunsfeld

131. John Grunsfeld

August 1, 2012

Obamacare mandates birth control coverage, Democrats pass a Democratic tax bill, U.S.women's gymnastics wins Olympic gold, and John Grunsfeld shares NASA's plan for Mars.

Chris Hayes

132. Chris Hayes

August 2, 2012

Rafalca finishes one round of Olympic dressage, Russ Carnahan touts Missouri's redistricted district, plants talk to each other, and Chris Hayes describesbe U.S. elitism.

Pete Seeger

133. Pete Seeger

August 6, 2012

NASA's Curiosity rover reaches Mars, Mike Huckabee's "Chick-fil-A Appreciation Day" boosts sales, and activist Pete Seeger discusses his music career and upbringing.

Mark Shriver

134. Mark Shriver

August 7, 2012

Alisyn Camerota criticizes U.S. patriotism, Wikipedia writers sway elections, Steve King defends dogfighting, and Mark Shriver highlights his father's civic influence.

Liza Mundy

135. Liza Mundy

August 8, 2012

Obamacare increases Papa John's pizza rates, digital pills hold seniors accountable, General Mills backs same-sex marriage, and Liza Mundy examines women in the workforce.

Woody Harrelson

136. Woody Harrelson

August 9, 2012

Michele Bachmann dabbles in McCarthyism, Representative Keith Ellison turns down Mitt Romney, scientists analyze truthiness, and Woody Harrelson talks theater.

fun.

137. fun.

August 13, 2012

StePhest Colbchella '012 gets underway, Mitt Romney picks Paul Ryan as his running mate, and fun. reviews their history and hygiene.

Grizzly Bear

138. Grizzly Bear

August 14, 2012

Colbchella '012 launches into night two, Mitt Romney's foreign experience comes into question, celebrities simulate soldiers, and Grizzly Bear describes their indie style.

Santigold

139. Santigold

August 15, 2012

StePhest Colbchella '012 embarks on night three, U.S. gymnastics' Fierce Five stops by The Report, Stephen visits the USS Intrepid, and Santigold discusses her music.

The Flaming Lips

140. The Flaming Lips

August 16, 2012

Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan connect over policy, GOP Senate candidates challenge the 17th Amendment, and The Flaming Lips' Wayne Coyne shares his latest album.

Andrew Sullivan

141. Andrew Sullivan

August 28, 2012

Hurricane Isaac hits the 2012 GOP convention, Stephen hosts Colbert Super PAC's Convention, Rep. Todd Akin blunders on rape pregnancy, and Andrew Sullivan talks U.S. politics.

Jennifer Burns

142. Jennifer Burns

August 29, 2012

The "Mitt Romney story" storms the GOP convention, Ann Romney tries to reach women voters, Paul Ryan breaks from Ayn Rand, and Jennifer Burns explores Ayn Rand's objectivism.

Jon Huntsman

143. Jon Huntsman

August 30, 2012

Mitt Romney struggles to attract African American voters, Paul Ryan lies in his GOP convention speech, and Jon Huntsman examines campaign finance and the Republican Party.

James Carville

144. James Carville

August 31, 2012

Mitt Romney wraps up the GOP convention, Clint Eastwood's empty chair joins Stephen, Neil Armstrong passes away, and James Carville talks about the middle class.

Reihan Salam

145. Reihan Salam

September 4, 2012

The DNC convention begins, Congresswoman Yvette Clarke praises Brooklyn's diversity, Paul Ryan lies about marathon times, and Reihan Salam explores election politics.

Michael Grunwald

146. Michael Grunwald

September 5, 2012

Brit Hume critiques the DNC convention noise level, Michelle Obama rakes in record tweet numbers during her speech, and Michael Grunwald explores the Recovery Act.

Bill Richardson

147. Bill Richardson

September 6, 2012

Storms disrupt the Democratic National Convention, Bill Clinton delivers a charming speech, Democrats reinstate "God" language, and Bill Richardson talks Hispanic outreach.

Ed Rendell

148. Ed Rendell

September 7, 2012

A catchy message indulges young voters, Barack Obama accepts the Democratic nomination, Stephen analyzes both conventions, and Ed Rendell examines government leadership.

Drew Faust

149. Drew Faust

September 17, 2012

Rick Santorum errs at a conservative summit, Mitt Romney misconstrues Obama's handling of Libya, Ira Glass calls the Atone Phone, and Drew Faust reviews Civil War history.

Jeffrey Toobin

150. Jeffrey Toobin

September 18, 2012

USA Today redesigns its logo, Mitt Romney responds to secret fundraiser footage, Apple wins a patent lawsuit, and Jeffrey Toobin details Supreme Court cases.

Itzhak Perlman

151. Itzhak Perlman

September 19, 2012

Fox News slams Barack Obama's secret video, Mitt Romney explains what he won't do in office, a papyrus scrap mentions Jesus' wife, and violinist Itzhak Perlman performs live.

Errol Morris

152. Errol Morris

September 20, 2012

Vladimir Putin glides with cranes, Mitt Romney tries to sway Hispanics, an amateur painter botches Jesus, and Errol Morris talks Jeffrey MacDonald and filmmaking.

Claressa Shields

153. Claressa Shields

September 25, 2012

Barack Obama leads Mitt Romney in the polls, Peggy Noonan gives Mitt advice, the NFL lockout bumps up ratings, and boxer Claressa Shields describes a satisfying punch.

Jim Holt

154. Jim Holt

September 26, 2012

The world faces an unavoidable bacon shortage, President Obama restores the Ottoman Empire, churchgoers pray for Mitt Romney, and Jim Holt ponders the universe.

Vince Gilligan

155. Vince Gilligan

September 27, 2012

Stephen promotes "America Again," Mitt Romney ignores discouraging polls, Fox News doubts the election forecast, and Vince Gilligan explores his series "Breaking Bad.