Donald Trump Can’t Stand It, He Knows You Planned It in ‘Late Show’ U.N. Escalator Fail ‘Sabotage’ Spoof

Key Takeaways:

• Donald Trump experienced an escalator malfunction at the United Nations.
• Stephen Colbert showcased this moment on The Late Show.
• The Beastie Boys’ “Sabotage” served as the spoof’s soundtrack.
• The segment aired on September 24.
• Billboard reported the story on September 25, 2025.

The Late-Night Setup

Stephen Colbert, the host of The Late Show, has a reputation for turning public figures’ slipups into hilarious late-night fodder. When a video surfaced of Donald Trump looking unsteady on a moving escalator at the United Nations, Colbert seized the opportunity to transform the moment into a comedic highlight.

The U.N. Escalator Moment

On the September 24 broadcast, Colbert introduced a clip showing Trump briefly faltering on the U.N. escalator. Although the footage was short, its visual impact was enough to prompt Colbert’s satirical humor. By playing the clip for his studio audience, he set the stage for a tongue-in-cheek take on Trump’s misfortune in a high-profile setting.

Why ‘Sabotage’?

To escalate the humor, Colbert chose the Beastie Boys’ 1994 track “Sabotage,” a song famous for its energetic blend of hip-hop and punk elements. The synergy between the track’s rebellious tone and Trump’s stumble gave the segment its comedic punch. Although the clip was brief, the music underscored every second, adding an extra layer of entertainment to Trump’s moment on the moving stairs.

Audience Reaction

Viewers have come to expect moments like this from late-night comedy shows, where hosts capitalize on political gaffes. This particular spoof showcased how a fleeting mishap can be reinterpreted through a cultural lens—in this case, a beloved hip-hop anthem—leading to both laughter and conversation. According to Billboard, the segment aired on Wednesday night and instantly struck a chord with fans eager to see a fresh spin on real-life events.