Talent and timing can be a formidable combination. Throw in media savvy and a get-along attitude, and Stephen Colbert is increasingly looking like the potential answer to CBS’s latenight prayers.
Stephen Colbert is approaching his own transformative moment, when he will become the second person to host The Late Show, CBS’s marquee late-night franchise, succeeding David Letterman, for whom it was created. Can he shed the ironist’s mask he wore on The Colbert Report and turn himself into the genial master of ceremonies that an 11:35 p.m. network show requires? And can he do it without sacrificing the irreverence and erudition that made his Comedy Central series a welcome antidote to a poisonous political era?
Most of us won’t see Stephen Colbert’s Late Show for another week, but several hundred people have already watched him quiz guests and try out material. These episodes aren’t quite ready for television. They’re test shows, designed to let Colbert work out any kinks before he finally ascends to the late-night throne once occupied by David Letterman.
NEW YORK (AP) — Stephen Colbert will open big when he begins his run as host of CBS’ “The Late Show” on Sept. 8, with previously announced guests George Clooney […]
Exclusives
As CBS and Stephen Colbert had previous hinted, much of The Colbert Report team will be making the move with him to The Late Show.
He launched the show’s new website, ColbertLateShow.com, and accounts on various social media outlets on Wednesday. CBS also released a five-minute video where Colbert talked about the beard he grew during the down period between The Colbert Report and his new show.
“The production office is open, the premiere date is set, and we’re incredibly excited to welcome the creative and comedic genius of Stephen Colbert to CBS latenight this fall,” said Nina Tassler, chairman, CBS Entertainment.
CBS Corp. is eligible to receive at least $16 million in tax credits and grants from the state of New York for its commitment to keep The Late Show With Stephen Colbert at the Ed Sullivan Theatre in Manhattan. CBS can seek at least $11 million in tax credits over five years to cover certain expenses and may receive as much as $5 million grant to defray costs to renovate the theater.
