Stephen Colbert knows why Americans will overcome this criss

The Late Show with Stephen Colbert returned to television to offer some words of encouragement.

The Late Show with Stephen Colbert took another step towards restoring normalcy on Monday night. The show returned to CBS, complete with a makeup-and-suit-wearing Stephen Colbert. The only difference was that the set was Colbert’s home yet the message was as important as any The Late Show has delivered.

Colbert was among a number of late night hosts who broadcasted from their homes to the audiences’ homes on Monday. Conan O’Brien, Jimmy Kimmel, and Seth Meyers did the same as networks find ways to keep these comedians on television during social distancing due to the novel coronavirus.

During this time of quarantine and isolation, the country’s leaders have been criticized for failing to deliver a consistent message or reassure the public. And like many others, late night hosts have attempted to fill that void by providing viewers with both an escape and encouragement.

Colbert did just that on Monday night. With a makeshift crew consisting of his kids and dog, he put together an entertaining show that also featured sincere encouragement. It started with the monologue where Colbert laid out the reasons why Americans were built to overcome this crisis.

Now to some, it may sound like a backhanded compliment for Colbert to highlight Americans’ routine of ordering takeout food and binging Netflix at 2 A.M. But he’s looking on the bright side of things and hopefully showing that social distancing is manageable especially when considering the benefits.

On a more serious note, Colbert sees the American spirit in the medical professionals working around the clock to combat COVID-19. The temporary hospitals in New York City and the applause hospital employees are receiving tell Colbert the country will persevere.

In just those few minutes of his monologue, Colbert accomplishes both of his goals. He delivers punchlines for much-needed amusement and then follows it with sincerity as he showcases uplifting scenes that are also needed.

His approach stands in stark contrast to that of President Donald Trump. Even from home, Colbert can’t resist taking a few shots at the president. President Trump’s questions over New York City’s need for masks and his boasts about his television ratings didn’t go unnoticed by the Late Show host.

The latest social distancing guidelines recommend continuing until at least April 30. That should give Stephen Colbert plenty of time to perfect the at-home version of The Late Show. Just think how well-trained his dog will be by then. And perhaps more importantly, he will continue to deliver the laughs and encouragement the country needs.  For more information about COVID-19, visit the CDC’s website or the website for your state’s Department of Health.