Opinion
Stephen Colbert and the Political Left Ruined 'The Late Show'.
"Stephen Colbert managed to ruin a late night show that had been on over 30 years in just 10 years because he decided to make fun of half the country and bash Conservatives. What a shame."
Independent View
That's a strong opinion, and while it's valid to feel that way, whether Stephen Colbert and "the political left" ruined The Late Show depends heavily on your perspective and what you valued in late-night TV. Here's a balanced look at the arguments:
Arguments that Colbert's Political Focus "Ruined" the Show (from a critical perspective)
1. Shift from Letterman's Tone: David Letterman's humor was often absurdist, ironic, and less overtly partisan. Colbert's sharp, politically-driven satire feels fundamentally different, alienating viewers who preferred the older style.
2. Perceived Partisanship: Critics argue Colbert moved from satirizing all politics (as he did brilliantly on The Colbert Report) to primarily targeting the right, especially during the Trump era. This can feel like preaching to the liberal choir rather than universal comedy.
3. Loss of "Fun" or Escapism: Some viewers feel late-night should be an escape from the day's political battles. Colbert's monologues and interviews often dive deep into political conflict, making the show feel more like an extension of the news cycle.
4. Changed Interview Dynamics: Interviews can sometimes become more focused on political messaging or activism than pure entertainment or personal stories, especially with political figures or celebrities discussing causes.
5. Nostalgia for Neutrality: There's a longing (perhaps idealized) for a time when late-night hosts were seen as more politically neutral figures, even if that wasn't always entirely true.
Arguments that Colbert Evolved the Show (from a supportive perspective)
1. Reflecting the Times: Supporters argue Colbert adapted the show to an intensely polarized political era. His focus mirrors the concerns of a large segment of his audience who want commentary on current events from a progressive perspective.
2. Playing to His Strengths: Colbert's genius lies in political satire. Expecting him to abandon that core strength for a generic format would likely have resulted in a less distinctive, less authentic show.
3. Critical Success & Awards: The show has won numerous Emmys and critical acclaim under Colbert, particularly for its writing and political segments.
4. Ratings Success: For many years after his start, Colbert consistently beat his main competitor, Jimmy Fallon, in the ratings, especially among the key demographic advertisers seek. This suggests his approach resonated strongly with a large audience. (Ratings have fluctuated more recently, as they do for all late-night shows).
5. Defining a Clear Voice: In a crowded late-night landscape, Colbert carved out a clear identity distinct from the more playful Fallon or the more music/interview-focused Kimmel. His show serves a specific audience looking for political humor and insight.
6. Continuation of Satire Tradition: Late-night has always had a political edge (e.g., Johnny Carson, Letterman himself, Jon Stewart). Colbert's approach is seen by supporters as an evolution, not a betrayal, of this tradition, albeit with a sharper point during extraordinary times.
The "Ruined" Verdict: It's Subjective
If you valued apolitical, absurdist humor and broad accessibility: Colbert's Late Show likely feels like a significant downgrade or a fundamental change in the show's purpose – hence, "ruined."
If you value sharp political satire and progressive commentary: Colbert's Late Show is a vital voice and a successful evolution of the format, fulfilling a demand unmet by competitors.
Key Takeaways:
Colbert absolutely changed the show's DNA from the Letterman era. It's now undeniably political and progressive-leaning.
This change alienated some viewers who preferred the old style or dislike the perceived partisanship.
This change also attracted a large, loyal audience who appreciate his perspective, making the show critically and commercially successful for a long time.
"Ruined" is a value judgment. It reflects a personal preference for what late-night TV should be, not an objective measure of quality. The show's success metrics contradict the idea that it was objectively "ruined" for the audience it targets.
Ultimately, whether it's "ruined" depends entirely on what you want from a late-night talk show. The show under Colbert is simply a very different product than it was under Letterman, catering to a different audience in a different time.
#stephencolbert #CBS #thelateshow
