Colbert in Iraq: Mock pundit gets real performing for the troops in Baghdad

Colbert to broadcast 4 shows from Baghdad

NEW YORK — Stephen Colbert (KOHL-bert) will broadcast four shows from Baghdad next week, where the comedian says he’ll be “Bob Hoping” it for the troops.

Colbert has been promoting the trip on Comedy Central’s “The Colbert Report,” but because the military urged caution, he’s only trumpeted a vague trip to the Persian Gulf.

The shows will be taped in front of an audience of about 450 troops. They will air Monday through Thursday next week. It’s the first time anyone has broadcast from Iraq for a USO tour.

Colbert says he was spurred to make the trip when he noticed economic news coverage eclipsing reports from Baghdad.

He says he feels a responsibility to keep U.S. soldiers’ story alive because he’s often joked about the Iraq War on his show.