In Carson’s day, the guests were the stars, and he was the facilitator. In Colbert’s, this successful formula was inverted.
Share this story
Stephen Colbert arrives for the Saturday Night Live 50: The Anniversary Special in New York City, February 16, 2025.
Caitlin Ochs/Reuters
CBS has killed The Late Show. It is possible that, in so doing, it has killed the late show, too.
Since the news was promulgated, entertainment analysts have been busy looking for the murder weapon. Some have suggested Donald Trump. Others have pointed to the political climate, or the state of the TV market, or the economics of producing a spectacle in contemporary New York City. My choice is less complex. The executioner was Stephen Colbert.
About the Author
Charles C. W. Cooke is a senior editor at National Review and the host of The Charles C. W. Cooke Podcast.
Advertisement
Advertisement
CBS has killed The Late Show. It is possible that, in so doing, it has killed the late show, too.
Since the news was promulgated, entertainment analysts have been busy looking for the murder weapon. Some have suggested Donald Trump. Others have pointed to the political climate, or the state of the TV market, or the economics of producing a spectacle in contemporary New York City. My choice is less complex. The executioner was Stephen Colbert.
By continuing, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.
About the Author
Charles C. W. Cooke is a senior editor at National Review and the host of The Charles C. W. Cooke Podcast.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Comments