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CBS Taps Byron Allen Show to Replace Colbert

Is CBS replacing Colbert with Comics Unleashed a bold reinvention or a desperate surrender?
CBS Taps Byron Allen Show to Replace Colbert
Above: Byron Allen speaks on June 10, 2024. Image credit: Jason Mendez/Getty Images for Tribeca Festival

The Spin

Narrative A

This is a smart, overdue pivot by CBS, proving that the smug lecture era of late night is finally dying. Allen's "Comics Unleashed" delivers actual laughs without the political scolding, and the time-buy model guarantees CBS profits while ditching tens of millions in overhead. Allen built a media empire from the ground up, and this is exactly the kind of bold, audience-first move broadcast TV needs.

Narrative B

Replacing a 33-year late-night institution with the low-rated "Comics Unleashed" is CBS waving the white flag on linear TV while continuing to bend the knee to Trump. CBS is settling for lackluster filler over genuine programming ambition, which will continue to push the ratings off a cliff. No amount of spin can make swapping prestige for syndicated bargain content look like a win.



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© 2026 Improve the News Foundation. All rights reserved.Version 6.18.0

© 2026 Improve the News Foundation.

All rights reserved.

Version 6.18.0