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Stephen Colbert Scores Huge Ratings On Public Access Television

CHICAGO (CBS) -- Perhaps fearing he is losing his edge, Stephen Colbert has decided he needs some practice before he takes over as host of "The Late Show" on CBS this fall.

So, the Northwestern graduate (who sources say was known back then as Steve Col-BURT, not Stephen Col-BEAR), got in 45 minutes of training on a public access cable show in southeast Michigan, "Only In Monroe."

Colbert spent the first 20 minutes watering the plants and exploring what really makes life worth living in Monroe County.

Then, the show got super boring when he interviewed some musician named Marshall Mathers, who apparently is from Michigan--but not from Monroe.

During the interview, Mathers seemed confused, especially when Colbert lectured him on the importance of establishing a retirement account--in case the rap music career didn't work out.

Mathers has made a movie, which he wanted to promote. It's called "Southpaw" and Mathers said he hoped it will appear in theaters across the whole state, not just in Monroe (which does have a movie theater, according to the show's promotional spots.)

After several minutes, a frustrated Mathers asked Colbert if he was going to be allowed to perform.

No, sorry, Colbert said, he was running short on time.

Strangely, however, there was still plenty of time, as the two men went on to read the community calendar for July.

The interview begins around 21 minutes and 50 seconds into the clip.

Colbert has until Sept. 8 to work out the kinks. That's the day of his premiere on CBS late night.

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