The Colbert Report Season 3 Episode 23 Lance Armstrong

In season 3 episode 23 of The Colbert Report, titled "Lance Armstrong," host Stephen Colbert tackles the controversy surrounding the famed cyclist. The episode starts with Colbert commenting on the recent news surrounding Armstrong's doping scandal, and the ensuing investigation by the World Anti-Doping Agency.

Colbert then takes a deeper dive into the issue, offering his own thoughts on the matter. He highlights some of the arguments in favor of Armstrong, including claims that he was unfairly targeted and that the investigation was biased against him. However, Colbert doesn't shy away from pointing out the evidence against Armstrong, particularly his admission that he used performance-enhancing drugs during his career.

Throughout the episode, Colbert uses his trademark wit and humor to keep the conversation lively, joking about the various ways Armstrong might try to defend himself or spin the controversy in his favor. But he also takes a more serious tone at times, reflecting on the impact of Armstrong's actions and the broader question of whether athletes should be held to a higher standard than the rest of us.

As the episode progresses, Colbert brings in various guests to offer their own perspectives on the issue. He speaks with journalist Robert Lipsyte, who has covered cycling and the Lance Armstrong story for many years. Lipsyte offers insights into the perceptions of Armstrong within the cycling community, as well as the challenges faced by journalists trying to report on the story.

Later on, Colbert welcomes anthropologist and author David Graeber to the show to discuss the broader cultural implications of the scandal. Graeber argues that the real scandal isn't Armstrong's doping, but the fact that he was punished so severely for it. He suggests that the inflated importance placed on sports in society creates unrealistic expectations for athletes and leads to excessive punishment when those expectations aren't met.

Throughout the episode, Colbert manages to balance humor and seriousness in a way that only he can. He doesn't shy away from the tough questions, but he also injects his trademark irreverence into the conversation. Whether you're a fan of Armstrong or not, this episode of The Colbert Report is sure to make you think.