In a lighthearted yet pointed television appearance, Prince Harry joined Stephen Colbert on ‘The Late Show’ for a comedic sketch that blended holiday cheer with subtle political commentary. The Duke of Sussex participated in a faux audition for a Hallmark Channel-style Christmas movie, playing himself as the ‘Gingerbread Christmas Prince’ who saves the holiday in Nebraska.
The segment took a political turn when Colbert questioned why a real prince would seek such a role. Harry remarked on Americans’ fascination with both royalty and Christmas films, adding, ‘I hear you elected a king’ – an apparent reference to recent ‘No Kings’ protests directed at the Trump administration. The joke referenced widespread demonstrations against Trump’s policies that had mobilized large crowds across major U.S. cities including New York, Washington DC, and Los Angeles.
Harry further quipped about his determination to secure the acting role, stating he would ‘settle a baseless lawsuit with the White House’ – a clear nod to CBS’s recent legal settlement with former President Trump. Colbert retorted, ‘Hey, I didn’t do any of those things,’ prompting Harry’s comeback: ‘Maybe that’s why you’re cancelled,’ referencing the surprise announcement earlier this year that ‘The Late Show’ will conclude its 33-year run in May 2026.
The festive segment concluded with Colbert awarding Harry the title of ‘official Late Show prince of Christmas’ to audience applause. The appearance marked Harry’s second time on the program, following his January 2023 visit to promote his memoir ‘Spare,’ which had set viewership records for the show.
The Duchess of Sussex promoted her husband’s appearance via her Instagram account. The California-based royal couple has maintained a visible media presence since stepping back from senior royal duties in 2020 to pursue financial independence and creative projects.