I stumbled upon the above picture on a Mormon discussion forum earlier today. Maybe the picture is only good for a laugh. It’s at least good for that much. But because the picture invites a comparison between Joseph Smith and Stephen Colbert, let’s explore it (if for no other reason than it would be fun to do so). 
So what are some similarities between these two men? Any thoughts?
I’ve been thinking about, and—despite all their obvious differences—I think Smith and Colbert would have really hit it off. They are both boisterous, dramatic, and creative personalities. Imagine Smith as a guest on the Colbert Report, for example. The prophet of Truth vs. the pundit of “truthiness.” Now that’s must-see TV! And with Smith’s quick-wit and sense of humor, I actually suspect he’d hold up quite well against Colbert.
I am putting this picture into my presentation at Regional AAR, “The Mormon Jesus in Mexico.” I am putting together a gallery of doctored Mormon pictures.
Oh cool! Please send any funny pictures my way.
Could you tell me more about your presentation? I’m very interested, especially given that I’m working on a paper about Latinos in the LDS Church.
There’s at least one similarity worth noting: Both men made failed presidential bids—Smith in 1844, and Colbert in 2008.