Changes are underway at CBS as comic Byron Allen prepares to take over the late-night timeslot previously held by Stephen Colbert. In an interview with CNN, Allen emphasized that his upcoming program will not engage with political topics. His simple mantra is to ‘just be funny,’ marking a significant shift from Colbert’s politically charged approach during his tenure.
Byron Allen’s Vision for Late Night Comedy
During his appearance on Michael Smerconish’s show, Allen outlined his intentions for the new late-night program, stating a clear intent to avoid politics altogether. This decision contrasts sharply with Colbert’s show, which has featured extensive commentary on current events, particularly regarding former President Donald Trump.
Allen’s existing show, Comics Unleashed, has been on air since 2006 and will replace Colbert’s Late Show beginning on Friday, May 22, following the conclusion of Colbert’s 11-year run. CBS has agreed to lease the airtime held by Colbert for Allen’s media company, facilitating this transition in programming.
A Different Direction from Stephen Colbert
Colbert has famously used his platform to critique Trump’s presidency and policies. Over the years, he has made headlines for his pointed remarks about Trump, including strong criticisms related to immigration and international relations. In contrast, Allen aims to foster a more lighthearted atmosphere that steers clear of divisive political dialogue.
When addressing the potential scrutiny surrounding political leanings in his show, Allen responded to Smerconish by reiterated his stance on avoiding controversial subjects like racism, sexism, or anti-Semitism, focusing instead on delivering entertainment without causing offense. He stated, ‘We don’t do anything that’s racist or sexist or anti-Semitic or homophobic. Just be funny and don’t offend.’
Influences and Inspirations
Byron Allen draws inspiration from influential figures in television history. He cited the legendary producer Norman Lear, known for using comedy to bridge social divides, as a model for his approach. Allen believes that humor should unite audiences rather than create fractures based on differing political affiliations.
This contrasts with Colbert’s methodology, which has included overtly political satire and confrontational humor towards Trump’s administration. Allen’s commitment to an apolitical comedic landscape aligns with a broader trend in late-night television, where some hosts have started to examine their responsibilities and the impact of their material on public discourse.
In a media landscape increasingly characterized by political polarization, Byron Allen’s decision to prioritize humor over politics presents an intriguing alternative. He encapsulated his philosophy during the interview, responding to a comparison with a quote often attributed to Michael Jordan about being politically neutral: ‘I don’t care who you vote for. I’m here to make people laugh.’ This clear commitment to a comedic approach that transcends political boundaries will be closely watched as Comics Unleashed takes the airwaves.