A Five-Year Anniversary Review of Stephen Colbert’s Late Show and the CBS Move
Stephen Colbert’s late show has been a powerhouse in the late-night television scene, but how did it all start, and was it indeed the best move for CBS?
The CBS Move
When CBS hired Stephen Colbert for his late-night show in 2014, it was indeed a significant move. However, the success of his show on The Late Show has more to do with circumstances than calculated brilliance. One cannot deny that the timing could not have been better, especially with the rise of Donald Trump in politics.
Back in 2014, the idea that Donald Trump would become the U.S. president was far from their minds. Nevertheless, Colbert and his team recognized the opportunity provided by the political climate. They were quick to capitalize, making their show relevant and entertaining to a nation preoccupied with politics. This foresight and ability to adapt have been key to the show’s success.
The Donald Trump Factor
It’s clear that if Donald Trump had not been elected, Colbert might not have achieved his current status. His first opponent, Jimmy Fallon, would have likely maintained his popularity, maintaining the popularity contest witnessed during David Letterman and Jay Leno’s era. But Fallon’s performance was tainted by a disastrous interview with Trump and his non-political stance, which fell short of the expectations of Colbert’s audience.
Colbert’s show gained momentum as Trump’s presidency took shape, becoming the late-night show to watch. By Trump’s inauguration, The Late Show had firmly established itself as the top-rated late-night show, a position it has maintained since. The show’s success is closely tied to its ability to remain relevant in a highly competitive market where viewers have numerous options for viewing.
Comparisons to the Past
Some argue that the success of The Late Show is a reflection of Jon Stewart’s impact. Stewart, a prominent political satirist, left a significant legacy. However, Colbert had the benefit of Stewart’s recommendation, and while Stewart’s absence is certainly felt, Colbert’s show has flourished under his tenure.
Despite Stewart’s influence, Letterman’s show was unique and had a loyal following. Finding an exact replacement for Letterman might have been challenging. Colbert, however, managed to adapt and cater to a variety of audiences, combining humor with political commentary, something the late-night show needed.
Conclusion
In retrospect, it’s evident that hiring Stephen Colbert was a smart move for CBS. The show’s continued success over the past five years is a testament to Colbert’s ability to adapt and create relevant content. While Fallon or other potential replacements might have matched the ratings, it’s hard to argue that a different choice would have been the wrong move. Colbert’s Late Show has become an integral part of late-night television, both in terms of content and ratings.
About the Author:
Enjoying a diverse background in entertainment journalism, the author has covered a wide range of television shows and personalities. Their insightful analysis provides a unique perspective, blending historical context with present-day trends to offer a nuanced understanding of the late-night television landscape.