Kamala Harris and Selina Meyer: A tale of two vice presidents
A comedic reflection on political parallels
In a recent appearance on “The Late Show With Stephen Colbert,” Julia Louis-Dreyfus, known for her role as Selina Meyer in the hit series “Veep,” shared her thoughts on the unexpected surge in the show’s popularity. This spike coincided with President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the election and Kamala Harris’ announcement of her candidacy. The conversation took an intriguing turn as Louis-Dreyfus drew a clear line between her fictional character and the real-life vice president.
The rise of ‘Veep’ in a changing political landscape
Colbert highlighted that “Veep” viewership had increased by a staggering 350%. Louis-Dreyfus responded with a mix of humor and caution, saying, “It’s a great thing, I think?” She was quick to clarify that while both she and Harris held the title of vice president, their similarities ended there.
“Let me explain to you, on ‘Veep’ I played a narcissistic, megalomaniac sociopath, and that is not Kamala Harris,” she emphasized, adding a playful jab, “It might be another candidate in the race.”
Drawing parallels and distinctions
Colbert, ever the provocateur, asked which “Veep” character reminded Louis-Dreyfus the most of Donald Trump’s running mate, JD Vance. Without missing a beat, she identified Jonah Ryan, the bumbling White House liaison played by Timothy Simons. “That would be Jonah Ryan,” she said, noting his constant clashes with Meyer’s staff. “I’m sure he’s made love to many couches,” she quipped, showcasing her signature wit.
The serious side of satire
Despite its comedic nature, “Veep” often tackled serious issues, including the harsh treatment of women in politics. When asked about a favorite scene that encapsulated this theme, Louis-Dreyfus recounted a memorable moment between Meyer and Mike McLintock, played by Matt Walsh.
“He came to me with this speech, and the speech began ‘as a woman.’ And I looked at him and I said, ‘First of all, as a woman, I’m not going to start a speech with “as a woman,” because I can’t identify as a woman,'” she recalled. “Men hate that and women who hate women hate that, which is most women.”
Watch the full interview
For those interested in watching the full interview, you can find it here.
Personal reflections on ‘Veep’ and its impact
As a long-time fan of both political dramas and comedies, “Veep” holds a special place in my heart. The show’s ability to blend sharp satire with genuine commentary on the political landscape is nothing short of genius. Louis-Dreyfus’ portrayal of Selina Meyer is both hilarious and painfully real, capturing the absurdity and ruthlessness of political life.
The enduring relevance of ‘Veep’
In today’s ever-evolving political climate, “Veep” remains as relevant as ever. The show’s resurgence in popularity is a testament to its enduring appeal and the timeless nature of its humor. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to the series, there’s no better time to dive into the world of Selina Meyer and her dysfunctional team.
For those who haven’t yet experienced the brilliance of “Veep,” I highly recommend starting with the first season. You can find more information and watch the trailer here.
Final thoughts
“Veep” is more than just a comedy; it’s a mirror reflecting the absurdities and challenges of political life. Julia Louis-Dreyfus’ performance as Selina Meyer is a masterclass in comedic acting, and her recent interview with Stephen Colbert only reinforces her sharp wit and keen insight.
As we navigate the complexities of modern politics, “Veep” offers a much-needed dose of humor and perspective. So, whether you’re a political junkie or just looking for a good laugh, “Veep” is a must-watch.
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