Sheboygan, Wisconsin, has become an unexpected star on late-night television, thanks to its frequent mentions on 'The Late Show with Stephen Colbert'. From jokes about 'funny name towns' to political commentary, the city has been a recurring topic of interest. Here's a breakdown of some of the most notable instances and the commentary that surrounds them.
The 'Funny Name Towns' Joke
In December 2024, Colbert made a joke about Luigi Mangione, a character in the movie 'Home Alone', who was arrested in Altoona, Pennsylvania. Colbert quipped, 'Fleeing to one of America’s funny name towns. Police will always find you right away, whether it’s Altoona, Pennsylvania, Rancho Cucamonga, California, or Sheboygan, Wisconsin.' This joke not only highlighted the city's name but also played on the idea of a town's reputation and the ease of police tracking fugitives.
Trump's 'Horrible City' and 'Jaws' Comments
During the 2024 presidential campaign, Colbert made two jokes about Donald Trump's comments. First, he mocked Trump's dissing of Milwaukee, a city hosting the Republican National Convention. Colbert recalled the time he apologized for making jokes about Milwaukee, leading to an invitation to a Brewers game. Then, in Racine, Trump compared the city to Sheboygan, suggesting it was better than coastal cities due to the absence of sharks. Colbert responded with a Jaws reference, playing a shark attack scene from the movie, implying that Sheboygan is a safer choice.
Bidenomics and Local Pride
In fall 2023, Colbert made a joke about former President Joe Biden's visit to Philadelphia to discuss his 'Bidenomics' agenda. Biden tried to connect with the crowd by mentioning his local roots, but the response was underwhelming. Colbert, in character as Biden, humorously downplayed the crowd's reaction, suggesting that Sheboygan might be a better audience for his jokes, given its proximity and the lack of traffic.
Personal Reflection and Commentary
These mentions of Sheboygan on 'The Late Show' have brought attention to the city, often in a humorous light. Personally, I find it fascinating how a city's name can become a source of comedic material, especially when it's used to mock political figures. It raises questions about the relationship between local identity and public perception, and how a simple name can become a powerful tool in satire.
In my opinion, these jokes not only entertain but also provide a unique perspective on the political landscape. They highlight the human side of politics, where even the most serious topics can be approached with a touch of humor. What's more, they demonstrate how a small town's name can become a part of a larger cultural conversation, influencing public opinion and engagement.
