Colbert Gaytion: Dumbledore Gets Wagged

We all know Stephen Colbert doesn't read (indeed, his best-selling "I Am America (And So Can You)" wasn't even written...it was transcribed). So it was no surprise that he used J.K. Rowling's outing of the beloved Dumbledore to "wag his finger" at the demons that walk amongst us, using their talent for the diabolical purposes of turning kids gay: yes, that's right, children's books authors.

What makes this bit so funny is that you just know there is an entire demographic out there, more likely tuned into "Hannity & Colmes," that has given serious thought that "Curious George" might be gay. Then again, who amongst hasn't stifled a snort at the title of Dr. Seuss' "There's a Wocket in my Pocket".

Colbert is so adept at tapping into the ugly truths of America and inverting them for comedy. He doesn't hit us over the head with it; in fact, the bit is funny without even giving a second thought to any sub-text. But that is the beauty of it too: we don't have to sit back, pause, and reflect on all those nut-cases out there that did get their panties in a bunch about Dumbledore, or Curious George, or the seven dwarves...it's part of the collective unconscious of his audience.  And that's why a run for the presidency would've been so exciting and satisfying: to see how those not a part of the Colbert Nation would've responded to Colbert the candidate (e.g. "I liked what he had to say about that gay monkey; yee-hah, let's vote for him!")

And what a twist of fate, what with the timing of the writers' strike. He really could've been out there pounding the pavement, shaking hands, and kissing babies. And burning books. Except for his, of course.

Click here to watch Colbert's "Wag of the Finger" to J.K. Rowling and co.