Colbert, Corden Do the Exact Same Lawrence O’Donnell Meltdown Gag (Videos)

Sometimes there are only so many ways to tackle a joke. Comedians often chalk up indistinguishable punchlines to “parallel thinking.”

James Corden and his “Late Late Show” lead-in Stephen Colbert were victims of that last night, when both CBS late-night hosts performed the exact same gag in mockery of MSNBC host Lawrence O’Donnell’s recent meltdown.

To be fair, both sketches were funny (though perhaps not as hilarious as the insane original) and the two shows tape on different coasts. This particular self-deprecation entry was also the obvious angle.

Also Read: Lawrence O'Donnell Apologizes for On-Camera Meltdown (Video)

In other words, the Thursday bits were no joke theft — but reflected pure coincidence and like-minded comedic instinct. Both staffs and hosts should be applauded for the quick turnaround on a tough and technical skit.

Watch Colbert’s take above and Corden’s below.

Who did it best? Let us know in the comments section.

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