Stephen Colbert apologizes to Canton
12:35 p.m. Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Talk show host Stephen Colbert recently issued an apology to the 803 residents of Canton, Kansas, for disparaging remarks he made on his show, "The Colbert Report," in late July. He referred to the town as smelly, and, he added "if Dorothy was from Canton, Kansas, she would have wished that the house dropped on her."
Now, it seems the backlash from angry Canton residents and the governor has gotten to Colbert. See his video apology above.
49 News has been following this story. See previous stories below. You can also scroll down to see Gov. Kathleen Sebelius' response to Colbert's comments.
Coverage on Stephen Colbert's gibe on Canton, Kansas
- Stephen Colbert delivers low blow to Canton (July 31, 2008)
- Canton residents condemn Stephen Colbert's gibe (August 1, 2008)
Sebelius Letter To Colbert
My dearest Stephen:
Canton, Kansas is a town of about 800, located in McPherson County. Since you just missed the McPherson County Fair, where we surely could have gotten you bucked off something, and the yearly demolition derby is over, we’d like to invite you to visit the pioneer 1883 jail on Allen Street in Canton. Standard procedure is to view by appointment only, but in your case, the Mayor has assured me, we can get you an overnight booking anytime you are available.
Consider yourself to have a standing appointment. We hope to hear you’re coming for a visit.
Also, it’s funny you avoided picking on Canton, Ohio (population 80,000) and instead went after Canton, Georgia (population 7,000) and then decided to bully the quaint town of Canton, Kansas, picking on its 800 citizens. Next, you’ll surely be headed for Canton, Texas, (population 3,000) which is reportedly home of the world’s largest flea market.
I bet they can’t wait!
With warm Kansas wishes,
Gov. Kathleen Sebelius
Comments
Note: ktka.com does not necessarily condone the comments here, nor vouch for the factual claims made therein. Nor do we review every post.
Aug. 6, 2008 at 1:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)powercat2011 (anonymous)
Stephen Colbert had NOTHING to apologize for. The people of Canton and others in this state need to grow up. It's comedy, not a serious news platform. If we can't laugh at ourselves, then we live in a pretty poor society. If I was from Canton I would be proud to have my town mention on national television, and I would have a good hearty laugh after the bit was over.
Thank you, Stephen, and keep it up. You are just what this stuffy nation needs right now.
Post a comment
(Requires free registration.)