ENTERTAINMENT

Late-Night TV: Is the End Near for Comedy Shows?

USATue Jul 29 2025

Seth Meyers, a familiar face in late-night TV, has opened up about the anxiety that comes with the possibility of his show ending. He’s not worried about his performance but rather the bigger picture—the changing landscape of entertainment.

A Decade of Late-Night Hosting

Meyers has been hosting Late Night with Seth Meyers for over a decade. During a recent appearance on "Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard," he admitted that the thought of his show being canceled makes him uneasy. He’s not afraid of failing; he’s worried that the industry might not support late-night shows anymore.

The Impact of Colbert's Cancellation

The recent cancellation of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert has added to this uncertainty. CBS decided to end the show in 2026, citing financial challenges in the late-night TV world. Colbert’s show has been a staple for years, known for its sharp political humor and insightful interviews.

Reflecting on His Career

Meyers reflected on his career, saying that his biggest breakthrough was simply showing up and doing his job. He trusts his team to handle the rest. Despite early struggles, he’s proud of what he’s built. He believes his work stands strong and represents him well.

The Fear of Industry Change

The fear isn’t about his talent but about the industry’s future. Meyers thinks late-night TV might be fading away, and that’s what keeps him up at night. It’s a concern shared by many in the industry as media consumption shifts.

Overcoming Challenges

Looking back, Meyers has faced tough times, like when NBC executives questioned the show’s direction. But he’s come a long way and built something meaningful. His honesty about these fears shows the uncertainty that even successful hosts face in today’s media world.

questions

    If late-night hosts started a union to fight against show cancellations, what would their negotiation tactics be?
    What if Seth Meyers' show was canceled and he had to host a morning news show instead—would he still be able to keep a straight face?
    If late-night shows were replaced by AI hosts, would they still be able to pull off a decent monologue about the latest political scandals?

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