Stephen Colbert delivered a scathing critique of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Following the release of a workout video featuring the politician alongside musician Kid Rock. The video, quickly attracting attention for its unconventional approach, prompted Colbert to offer a humorous takedown during Wednesday night’s monologue on “The Late Show.”
Colbert described the footage as an “unexpected offering” from the Trump administration official, noting Kennedy’s ongoing “Make America Healthy Again” campaign. He playfully warned viewers to “brace yourself for some senior softcore” before showcasing clips from the video, which depicts Kennedy and Kid Rock exercising in various states of undress. The comedian’s commentary centered heavily on Kennedy’s choice to work out while wearing jeans.
The video itself, released on Tuesday, shows Kennedy, 72, and Kid Rock, 55, engaging in a 90-second montage of exercises, including crunches, weightlifting, and even an ice plunge – all while promoting a message of getting active and “eating real food,” according to the New York Post. The clip has already garnered over 8 million views, sparking a mix of support and bewilderment online.
Colbert’s monologue didn’t shy away from poking fun at the bizarre imagery. He quipped that watching the video felt like “dropping acid at a Cracker Barrel and then making a PowerPoint presentation.” He further joked about the scene of Kennedy and Kid Rock doing sit-ups, suggesting it evoked memories of being scolded by an older sibling and forced to shoot at a neighbor’s lawn gnome.
The Jeans: A Central Target of Colbert’s Humor
However, the most consistent target of Colbert’s humor was Kennedy’s decision to wear jeans throughout the workout, even during a sauna session. “That is madness. Working out in tight jeans is not what a sauna is for,” Colbert declared. He then launched into a darkly humorous observation about the potential for awkward encounters in a sauna, referencing a childhood experience.
Colbert continued to question the logic behind the denim choice, playfully suggesting Kennedy might be a robot whose pants are permanently affixed. “What is the deal with those jeans? Why won’t he wear shorts? Is he one of those action figures where his jeans are his legs?” he asked. The comedian’s bewilderment mirrored the reactions of many social media users, as reported by the New York Post, with some joking that Kennedy was a “Never Nude.”
The video concluded with Kennedy and Kid Rock enjoying a glass of “thick creamy whole milk” in a hot tub, a detail that prompted Colbert to deliver a final punchline. “The whole video looks less like two friends working out and more like RFK Jr. Picked up a drifter at the carnival and is fattening them up to eat,” he quipped.
Watch Colbert’s full monologue here:
Stephen Colbert lays into RFK Jr. For working out with Kid Rock in JEANS! 😂
Watch the full monologue here: https://t.co/q9w9w99999— The Late Show (@colbertlateshow) February 18, 2026
A Broader Context of Kennedy’s Health Messaging
This isn’t the first time Kennedy has raised eyebrows with his approach to health and wellness. The New Republic notes that Kennedy has previously opted to wear jeans during various physical activities, regardless of the temperature or exercise. The publication highlights concerns about Kennedy’s broader health messaging, citing his refusal to endorse the measles vaccine during a recent outbreak in Texas, instead recommending vitamins.
“The Late Show With Stephen Colbert” airs weeknights at 11:35 p.m. ET on CBS.
The unusual workout video and Colbert’s subsequent roast have undoubtedly amplified the conversation surrounding Kennedy’s “Make America Healthy Again” agenda. As Kennedy continues to promote his health policies, it remains to be seen how this latest episode will impact public perception. The ongoing scrutiny of his methods suggests that his unconventional approach will continue to be a subject of public debate.
What are your thoughts on the workout video? Share your opinions in the comments below.