'Where is Melania?' Stephen Colbert unveils mystery behind former first lady's absence from Trump campaign
WASHINGTON, DC: On Tuesday night, Stephen Colbert took to the 'Late Show' to solve the mystery of Melania Trump’s whereabouts, with a little help from actress and comedian Laura Benanti.
Known for her spot-on impressions, Benanti delivered a comedic take on the former first lady’s absence from the public eye.
Stephen Colbert highlights Melania Trump’s mysterious absence
Stephen Colbert kicked off the segment by highlighting the ongoing speculation about Melania Trump's silence amidst the 2024 campaign. “Her complete absence from the campaign trail has a lot of people wondering: Where is Melania?” Colbert asked, setting the stage for the comedic reveal.
In her portrayal of Melania Trump, Benanti, donning a backdrop of the Democratic National Convention, greeted viewers with a playful, “Hello, Chicago!” She then quipped about her whereabouts, stating, “Because this week, there is no chance my husband will be here.” The DNC is being held at Chicago’s United Center until Thursday.
Colbert pressed Benanti on her reasons for being at the convention, to which Benanti responded in character, “Oh, Stephen, I am trying to uncover the secrets behind the Kamalanomenon. Like her plot to attract voters by making them — ah, what is this word — happy?”
She also humorously questioned the Vice President’s laugh, mimicking it with a series of “ha ha ha ha ha” sounds.
Stephen Colbert probes Melania's thoughts on Trump's running mate
The former first lady's low profile during Donald Trump's 2024 campaign has sparked curiosity. Last month, she broke with tradition by attending the Republican National Convention but chose not to speak.
Colbert then inquired about her thoughts on Trump’s new running mate. “Mrs TRUMP, we haven't seen you lately, so we don't know your thoughts on your husband's campaign yet. for example, what do you think of his new running mate?” he asked.
In response, Benanti’s Melania humorously noted, “Oh, Stephen, I have always been in favor of him getting a new mate. Up top!”
When Colbert probed further about JD Vance, Trump’s new vice-presidential pick, Benanti replied with wit, “I think he brings some strong positions on conservative issues. And some freaky positions on his sofa!”
