The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert Stephen Presents: The Butterball Turkey Talk-Line
Nov 29, 2025
Join a delightful journey as Stephen Colbert dives into the Butterball Turkey Talk-Line, exploring what makes it a holiday favorite. He hilariously addresses chaotic calls about a turkey missing thighs and navigates the playful confusion of stuffing versus dressing. From thawing concerns to the millionth caller surprise, Stephen combines practical advice with absurd humor. Expect stories of loneliness and marital quirks, all wrapped in his signature self-deprecation and improvisational style, making Thanksgiving prep both entertaining and memorable!
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Peaking With The Turkey Talk-Line
- Stephen describes recording the Butterball Turkey Talk-Line as his improvisational peak and remembers it as a highlight with producer Liz Levin.
- He admits he actively hindered callers seeking real turkey advice and felt no regrets for creating chaos on Thanksgiving.
Comedy Eases Holiday Cooking Anxiety
- The Turkey Talk-Line segment thrives because it balances genuine holiday anxiety with absurdist humor to entertain listeners.
- Stephen's role as a 'chaos agent' reveals how comedy can relieve stress around ritualized family duties.
Dry-Brine Then Stuff For Juicy Turkey
- Stephen recommends dry-brining a turkey for 24 hours and then rinsing it for optimal moisture.
- He advises stuffing the turkey so the stuffing soaks up the drippings and becomes savory and moist.