Byron Allen’s “Comics Unleashed” has officially moved up from its slot to take over the 11.35 pm CBS slot from The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, whose last episode aired on May 21.
The Late Show was cancelled by CBS, citing financial reasons that many think are a cover-up for political intervention amid a change in Paramount’s (CBS’s parent company) top leadership.
Byron Allen insists he isn’t trying to replace Stephen Colbert
After taking over the slot, Byron Allen set the record straight, as he told NPR’s Newsmakers, “At the end of the day, I’m not trying to replace Colbert…I am not trying to hold on to his audience because Comics Unleashed has been around 20 years and has its own audience.”
Allen’s show follows a simple format structure, where he delivers a brief observational monologue, then tosses questions to a rotating panel of four stand-up comedians. The show has a “no politics” approach and sticks to timeless material. The absolute absence of social commentary makes the show a distinct contrast to The Late Show, which fed off fierce anti-Trump conversations.
During his Friday, May 22 premiere, Allen opened his broadcast serenading “the great Stephen Colbert” alongside Johnny Carson and Jon Stewart. “Stephen Colbert is an American treasure,” Allen said. “He is a phenomenal human being. He is truly special. Here’s the good news. He owns his talent. And he has an audience that loves him. He just has to decide where he wants to plant his flag next.”
Less than 23 hours after the last episode aired, Colbert was seen as the surprise host of Only in Monroe on a public-access platform. The episode was reportedly financed by CBS to launch Colbert’s new innings on his private YouTube channel.
CBS and its parent company, Paramount, have faced severe public backlash after they cancelled the 33-year-old The Late Show, citing financial reasons. Speculations remain on the real trigger behind the cancellation, with many claiming that it was a direct attempt to appease Trump.
WILL YOU BE WATCHING BYRON ALLEN’S SHOW?
