Diane Keaton’s Wildly Unscripted Interview on The Colbert Report Still Has Fans Laughing Years Later
When two icons of wit and unpredictability collide, the result is television gold. Such was the case during Diane Keaton’s unforgettable 2012 interview on “The Colbert Report,” an appearance that has since become legendary for its delightful chaos, irreverent banter, and genuine warmth. With Stephen Colbert paying tribute to Keaton following her recent passing, fans are revisiting one of late-night TV’s most entertaining and heartfelt moments.
Stephen Colbert opened his tribute by sharing his lifelong admiration for Diane Keaton, humorously recalling how his mother once made him leave a screening of “Annie Hall” when he was just eleven. As a self-proclaimed fan, Colbert’s excitement was palpable—and his playful alter ego from “The Colbert Report” was more than ready to match Keaton’s offbeat energy.
From the moment Keaton took her seat, the interview veered off-script in the most delightful ways. Ostensibly there to promote her memoir “Then Again,” Keaton seemed far more interested in sparring with Colbert, volleying questions and quips with the host.
– Keaton’s opening salvo: “Are you still running for president?”
– Colbert’s reply: “Always thinking about it.”
– Keaton’s deadpan: “I just want you to know I won’t be voting for you.”
The exchange set the tone for the rest of the interview—a playful battle of wits, with Keaton refusing to take anything too seriously and Colbert gleefully going along for the ride
The conversation quickly devolved into comic absurdity, with Keaton joking about Colbert’s “tight hug” backstage and threatening to “bring him up on charges.” Colbert, never one to back down, responded with mock indignation and self-deprecating humor.
Despite the chaos, Keaton did manage to mention her memoir, noting the paperback release and its focus on her relationship with her mother. But even when the topic turned serious, Keaton’s wit shone through:
– On her mother: “It takes real courage to say that you loved your mother.”
– On reading her mother’s diaries: “Did that humanize your mother for you? Because our parents are bigger than life. I don’t approve of that.”
Colbert pressed her to share something—anything—about the book, leading to one of the interview’s most memorable moments: “You have to say one [bleep] thing about it!” he pleaded, as the audience erupted in laughter.
As the interview drew to a close, Keaton asked, “Do you think I’m a good sidekick?” Colbert assured her she was, and the two continued their comedic dance, with Keaton again joking about “bringing him up on charges.” The pair’s chemistry was undeniable, blending affection, absurdity, and mutual respect.
Diane Keaton’s appearance on “The Colbert Report” stands as a testament to her comedic genius and Colbert’s ability to create space for spontaneity and genuine connection. Their exchange was unscripted, unpredictable, and deeply funny—reminding viewers that the best interviews are often those that break the mold.
As Colbert himself said, it was one of his favorite interviews ever—a sentiment echoed by fans who cherish Keaton’s unique blend of charm, honesty, and irreverence.
With her passing, Diane Keaton leaves behind a legacy of memorable performances and unforgettable moments like this one. Her “charmingly chaotic” interview on “The Colbert Report” is not just a reflection of her comedic brilliance, but a reminder of the joy she brought to audiences everywhere.
