The Duke of Sussex made a surprise appearance on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert, using the moment to take playful aim at US President Donald Trump.
During the comedy sketch, Prince Harry delivered a sharp seven-word joke that labelled Trump a “king,” drawing laughs from the studio audience.
The segment, which aired Wednesday night, featured Harry portraying himself as he wandered around the CBS studio searching for an audition to play a Hallmark-style Christmas prince. The royal joked that he was trying out for a fictional film titled Gingerbread Christmas Prince Saves Christmas in Nebraska.
When Colbert questioned why an actual prince would want a role in such a movie, Harry teased Americans’ love of festive films and fascination with royalty, saying the combination made perfect sense.
Harry Delivers Trump "King" Joke on The Late Show
Colbert pushed back on the idea that Americans are obsessed with royalty, prompting Harry to respond: "Really? I hear you elected a king." The quip appeared to reference anti-Trump demonstrations that used the slogan "No Kings" during his presidency.
The duke later joked that he would do whatever it took to secure the part, including recording a self-tape, traveling for auditions or even "settling a baseless lawsuit with the White House." His remark alluded to the recent settlement between CBS and Trump.
When Colbert insisted he had no part in that settlement, Harry fired back: "Maybe that’s why you’re cancelled."
Late Show Sketch Turns Into Festive Holiday Moment
The comedic exchange soon transformed into a Christmas-themed spectacle, with decorated trees, sleigh bells and holiday music filling the stage as Harry encouraged Colbert to "just believe."
The pair had teased the cameo earlier in the day using a viral sound clip from The Great British Bake Off.
Other guests on Wednesday’s program included Oscar nominee Michael Shannon and Irish star Jessie Buckley.
This appearance marked Harry’s second visit to The Late Show. His first, in January 2023 to promote his memoir Spare, delivered the show’s highest ratings in two years and generated global headlines.
Prince Harry's joke didn't name the president. Credit: John Nacion / Getty Images.
Duchess of Sussex Shares Teaser Ahead of Broadcast
The Duchess of Sussex also helped build anticipation, sharing the promotional clip on her Instagram story ahead of the broadcast.
Harry and Meghan have been living in Montecito, California, with their two children since stepping back from their roles as working royals in early 2020.