Under-whelmed! Sophomoric humor and lack of serious reflection where it belonged - even required. Here was a chance to create something really new in late night TV. It was squandered. Same - introductory monologue, same desk, same band, same guests either pushing their product or campaign - design. If we really don't want crazy media coverage of Trump then don't do it yourself!!! If you really want the people to know Jeb! then give it more than five minutes and make it a serious interview. I was looking forward to something new and refreshing and got a warmed over TV dinner. So disappointed. Maybe time to get it right, but I'm not holding my breath!
4
Craig Ferguson had a remarkable, and I guess largely ignored, show that followed Letterman on CBS. He was everthing Colbert was not on his opening night. On purely artistic and edgy-comic terms, it's not possible to accept the demise of Ferguson's show and the rise of the new Colbert show (that is, with the scant evidence there is so far). If Colbert is to set himself apart from the weak sisterhood of the other extremely ordinary late-night talk shows, he would do well to take some lessons and inspiration from Craig Ferguson--just not so much that he gets booted to Broadway (as in the street, not The Great White Way).
4
I'm surprised that this critic completely missed the theme of the Oreos segment being about Donald Trump's boycott of Oreos. That was its raison d'etre and each cookie section was "sandwiched" between Trump-ettas. I saw the show so it doesn't matter here, but in the future, I'd like NYT TV pieces to be more aware.
5
I've watched the first two episodes, although not to the end. I got bored. Too many superfluous antics and not much substance. I'll give him another shot after he (hopefully) settles in and settles down. I hope he learns how to interview people, giving the guests the attention, rather than hogging it all for himself. That's what Carson and Letterman did. They allowed the guests to shine, knowing when to jump in only when the guest was failing, but still keeping the focus on the interviewee.
2
I watched Letterman from the days of throwing stuff off the 5-story tower to the end. Similarly, watched Craig Ferguson every night. Never watched Colbert—life is too short to watch everything—and so came to him with no preconceptions.
Neither Colbert nor Ferguson's successor, James Corden, do it for me. I guess I'm no longer in the right demographic. So when I turn off the TV after the news, it just gives me an extra hour or two to read in bed, or surf the Web.
Neither Colbert nor Ferguson's successor, James Corden, do it for me. I guess I'm no longer in the right demographic. So when I turn off the TV after the news, it just gives me an extra hour or two to read in bed, or surf the Web.
2
One thing that I always gave Colbert credit for is making a lie obvious and a truth just as obvious. Tuesday, he stated that Jeb Bush was in second place, which polls show may have been true in August, but in September, he's been overshadowed by Ben Carson. Why did Stephen allow himself to project this in a manner which seemed honest? At best, it was unresearched which doesn't fit his style. I hope he stays more than a prop for his networks.
I think it's kind of silly for people to be so concerned about things they think didn't work during Colbert's first show. It seems like a deep lack of understanding of the foundation that underpins all the greatest late night shows of the past.
As a lifelong Letterman fan I was excited, entertained, and relieved by the bumps and crashes of Colbert's first sixty minutes. What I sincerely hope is that by this time next year they are still having an occasional bump and crash... because who wants to watch a late night show where nothing goes out of whack, or swerves off into the unpredictable, or fails to go off the cuff, or gets completely out of control? The price you pay for allowing room for those kinds of beautiful mistakes is that some skits and segments just don't work. It's life. It's imperfect. So are we. It's why we laugh.
Fortunately for Colbert, and the rest of us, he's in the hands of CBS, who for twenty-some years made room for the genius of imperfection - a guy from Indianapolis, Indiana, who made crashing the car and burning down the house into an American institution. I could be wrong, but I thought Colbert was making this point in his joke about "occasionally making CBS mad."
Sit back and relax, and hope to God they don't ever make this thing perfect. What a disaster that would be. What I'm excited about is to watch over time as Colbert gets comfortable in his chair and starts going without the net. Then we'll be getting to the real show. Give it time.
As a lifelong Letterman fan I was excited, entertained, and relieved by the bumps and crashes of Colbert's first sixty minutes. What I sincerely hope is that by this time next year they are still having an occasional bump and crash... because who wants to watch a late night show where nothing goes out of whack, or swerves off into the unpredictable, or fails to go off the cuff, or gets completely out of control? The price you pay for allowing room for those kinds of beautiful mistakes is that some skits and segments just don't work. It's life. It's imperfect. So are we. It's why we laugh.
Fortunately for Colbert, and the rest of us, he's in the hands of CBS, who for twenty-some years made room for the genius of imperfection - a guy from Indianapolis, Indiana, who made crashing the car and burning down the house into an American institution. I could be wrong, but I thought Colbert was making this point in his joke about "occasionally making CBS mad."
Sit back and relax, and hope to God they don't ever make this thing perfect. What a disaster that would be. What I'm excited about is to watch over time as Colbert gets comfortable in his chair and starts going without the net. Then we'll be getting to the real show. Give it time.
9
I was a Letter man fan who stopped watching Letterman. And I tuned in for this first one with the expectation that I hadn't come to stay - actually, I've got it DVR'd so that I can perhaps check it out once in a while. But after the second show, I have a feeling I might be in it for the long haul. A full hour is a bit much to add to my schedule - and who knows what Trevor Noah has in store for us. I'm an old lady and I need my sleep. But make room on the bandwagon.... Stephen! Stephen! Stephen!
And welcome to the NYT, James!
And welcome to the NYT, James!
6
The problem is that the world is just not that funny anymore.
1
Loved it!!!
3
Whatever the traffic will bear-- and the bar is now set lower than ever, but there were some humorous moments. I too reflect on Parr, Carson, Cavett -- even Letterman. This is a variety show with the host giving the variety. Let the guests take more control, and stop with the political focus.
Maybe Colbert will get his footing. New writing, better production, and time. Too early to tell, but at this rate my DVR will not be programmed past October.
Maybe Colbert will get his footing. New writing, better production, and time. Too early to tell, but at this rate my DVR will not be programmed past October.
1
I think the great appeal of 'Report' was the gleeful exuberance of Colbert's borderline dementia and clueless lack of empathy for his fellow humans. And without that beautifully calibrated and sustained wink to the audience -- one that reminded me of some of Gulliver's equally gleeful and unknowing condemnations of the human race -- there's a good chance, from what I saw, that we'll just be left with that rather grating exuberance that makes it hard for some of us to watch most late night TV.
But the real Mr Colbert has plenty of time, and certainly a sharp enough mind, to find that more interesting and darker 'sad clown' edginess that, for a lot of us, made hosts like Carson, Letterman, Ferguson, Stewart, Cavett and Paar (depressives, many of them, interestingly) watchable, while the more amiable Fallon and Leno are/were most decidedly not.
But the real Mr Colbert has plenty of time, and certainly a sharp enough mind, to find that more interesting and darker 'sad clown' edginess that, for a lot of us, made hosts like Carson, Letterman, Ferguson, Stewart, Cavett and Paar (depressives, many of them, interestingly) watchable, while the more amiable Fallon and Leno are/were most decidedly not.
8
Good bye. Colbert. To much slap stick for late night TV. The man has NO stand up comedy experience. Running around jumping up and down won't cut it. Too bad.
12
I predicted the ratio of Trump to Hillary jokes would be 10 or 20 to 1. I was wrong.
Hillary's came to zero and he showed he's not ready for prime time with his juvenile attempts at humor at Trump's expense. George Clown Knee without something to plug reveals he's yet another empty suit with the intellect to match.
Either do the Colbert Report until you get cancelled; or do a late night talk show that over time will reveal some political leanings of the host but in the main, will showcase someone who is talented enough to make both sides of the aisle laugh by delivering intelligent jokes.
Hillary's came to zero and he showed he's not ready for prime time with his juvenile attempts at humor at Trump's expense. George Clown Knee without something to plug reveals he's yet another empty suit with the intellect to match.
Either do the Colbert Report until you get cancelled; or do a late night talk show that over time will reveal some political leanings of the host but in the main, will showcase someone who is talented enough to make both sides of the aisle laugh by delivering intelligent jokes.
2
Please give me an example of one funny topical Hillary joke. Just one.
It's not that Trump is a Republican (currently, that is). It's that he provides a constant stream of comic opportunities.
It's not that Trump is a Republican (currently, that is). It's that he provides a constant stream of comic opportunities.
3
He lost me with the amulet bit. Reminded me of Ferguson and his stupid skeleton. I guess we who grew up with the originals (Parr, Cavett, Carson,
and Dave) are doomed to misery with these juvenile imitators. O well.
and Dave) are doomed to misery with these juvenile imitators. O well.
6
I agree that the amulet thing was dumb. But let's not deify the dead. Carson did many stupid and juvenile skits. Remember those idiotic, repetitive Carmac the magnificent segments? Remember the stupid, insulting jokes about Ed McMahon's drinking?
7
The premiere showed 2 challenges for the new Stephen:
1. The character from the Colbert Report had a lot of advantages: it immediately put you in the "joke" mood, since the old Stephen would react to almost anything in a funny way: either as an outraged conservative, an extreme narcissist, or a lovable ignorant (the Word segments making fun of him without him "noticing"). I didn't realize how big of a part of the comedy was just this persona. Without it, Stephen appeared a bit off, shooting in a lot of directions but not really landing any punches. With the character on, he could do a lot of things that seemed funny when you know he's "acting": A narcissistic fool is funny; a narcissistic normal guy who coves the ceiling with his portraits is not.
2. Losing his CR persona also meant losing a lot of the sharper, sarcastic humor, when he pretended to be someone else and showed the absurdness of their opinions. I feel like this kind of humor would be lost in the new audience - the masses are unlikely to follow the premise of the make-believe character, just as they would also probably miss the humor of the more sophisticated jokes from the Colbert Report. As a super CR fan, i showed it to some friends who just didn't get it - a smart person telling smart jokes might just not be that popular when presented to people who aren't really that big on thinking. I think there was some evidence of this in the opening jokes: they were very vanilla, quite watered down...
1. The character from the Colbert Report had a lot of advantages: it immediately put you in the "joke" mood, since the old Stephen would react to almost anything in a funny way: either as an outraged conservative, an extreme narcissist, or a lovable ignorant (the Word segments making fun of him without him "noticing"). I didn't realize how big of a part of the comedy was just this persona. Without it, Stephen appeared a bit off, shooting in a lot of directions but not really landing any punches. With the character on, he could do a lot of things that seemed funny when you know he's "acting": A narcissistic fool is funny; a narcissistic normal guy who coves the ceiling with his portraits is not.
2. Losing his CR persona also meant losing a lot of the sharper, sarcastic humor, when he pretended to be someone else and showed the absurdness of their opinions. I feel like this kind of humor would be lost in the new audience - the masses are unlikely to follow the premise of the make-believe character, just as they would also probably miss the humor of the more sophisticated jokes from the Colbert Report. As a super CR fan, i showed it to some friends who just didn't get it - a smart person telling smart jokes might just not be that popular when presented to people who aren't really that big on thinking. I think there was some evidence of this in the opening jokes: they were very vanilla, quite watered down...
8
I watched the first fifteen minutes of the new show. I didn't laugh.
Contrast this with laughter in the first five minutes of the Colbert Report. Mr. Colbert has a long way to go.
Contrast this with laughter in the first five minutes of the Colbert Report. Mr. Colbert has a long way to go.
15
What Stephen should do is to simply revert to two back-to-back episodes of a revived "CBS Colbert Report" --instead of the diluted "variety" show format that we now have him awkwardly attempting to do. This is a classic case of the Peter Principle scenario- with talented people being "promoted" upwards to a point where their true talents are either wasted or inappropriate or both
12
Mr. Colbert is a multi talented actor of rare ability. He is not a comedian and it was apparent in his debut on CBS. The Colbert report made perfect use of his talent as an actor while this format exposes the fact he is not a comedian. There wasn't much "funny" about the show and funny is what the show should be about for this viewer. The opening sequence with the song probably should have been the closing sequence. The producers had 9 months to prep this and instead of comedy they started with sentiment.
6
Ugly, conventional set that looks like a McMansion from Home Depot, bad musical direction... Standards for this tired format are so low Cobert can only help so much.
9
Boring and overdone. So what else is new?
6
I never watched Colbert's first show, or Stewart's for that matter. (Political comedy is just too damn easy and too predictable. The laughs come just fine on their own with the "real" news.) So, when I watched Colbert's premiere I got exactly what it was, The Late Show starring a guy named Stephen Colbert. I thought the show was plodding and stiff and the guest selection was mystifying as if the show were deliberately daring to present boredom as a new form of entertainment. There was too much political humor. More Trump jokes? After a summer of preparation? The sing-a-long at the end reminded me of a charity event from the 80s especially when I muted it. (Why didn't they go all out and book some of the retreads from "We Are the World" and do it right? They missed an opportunity there.) Mr. Colbert's voice is all wrong for late night television. It's so high-pitched and whiny I fear it will begin to grate on people for whom sleep is next on their list of things to do. But with that said, Les Moonves will give Mr. Colbert plenty of time to create something special. If he has it in him, if he can make comedy as a guy named Stephen Colbert and not as a parody of someone else, then, he will succeed. If not, then they'll look for someone else. How about, say, Kanye or Miley Cyrus or Billy Joel or Cindy Lauper with a comic standing off on the side jamming jokes at the audience.
3
1963: "civil rights won the pennant, but racism won the World Series." Stephen is back and this 70 year old, her 91 year old mom, 40 year old daughter, and 19 year old nephew couldn't be happier. I think all the complainers just miss the penis jokes.
11
I know he can be funny, but he wasn't funny in the debut. His delivery was "amped" alright; the cadence of his delivery was like one of those rapid-fire tennis ball machines used in practice. The hummus and Oreo bits: c'mon: frenetic, forced, but just not funny. Like an open-mic guy trying too damn hard. George Clooney was terminally boring, and Jeb Bush?? I can't stand Trump, but he's right about this guy (maybe the only thing he's right about). I can only hope it all gets better. Dave, Dave, Dave; you are missed.
7
That's America for you Build em' up. Then Tear em' Down
4
Stephen Colbert needs to be himself not what someone else says.
3
Those were HORRIBLE choices for first guests! The show was supposed to be new and fresh and they found 2 of the stalest guests they could find.
Bush used the fact that he would be a first guest to sell raffle tickets for his campaign for Pete's sake!
Bush used the fact that he would be a first guest to sell raffle tickets for his campaign for Pete's sake!
9
The opening, after he sat at the desk, was just horrible. Clooney interview was amusing; nice bit about his "new movie".
Bush, seemed forced and simply kept interuptions him. Colbert needs to slow down and let his guests talk, that is why they are they.
The band leaves lots to be desired. The "Everyday People" send up was ok. But I am sure most of the audience had no idea who most of the people were who were singing. Buddy Guy looked like he was about to fall asleep.
I give it a 6.5
I'm sure he was nervous and they have to work out the kinks. Give it time and he should be hitting his stride sometime e in 2Qtr 2016.
Peace
Bush, seemed forced and simply kept interuptions him. Colbert needs to slow down and let his guests talk, that is why they are they.
The band leaves lots to be desired. The "Everyday People" send up was ok. But I am sure most of the audience had no idea who most of the people were who were singing. Buddy Guy looked like he was about to fall asleep.
I give it a 6.5
I'm sure he was nervous and they have to work out the kinks. Give it time and he should be hitting his stride sometime e in 2Qtr 2016.
Peace
1
Colbert comes off as desperate and self centered without any of the comic genius of John Stewart.
Is seemingly boundless energy enough to make him successful? Who knows. American audiences are easily pacified.
But for me, I miss John Stewart. Please come back!
Is seemingly boundless energy enough to make him successful? Who knows. American audiences are easily pacified.
But for me, I miss John Stewart. Please come back!
4
Night 2, hard to believe, was even better than night 1! Im hooked! loved this show!!!!
4
The first show was MANIC!!! Please, a pause every so often............ if you ask a question, let the guest answer................ the band is a carbon copy of Fallon's band .......... this is just another ordinary late night talk show.
1
Very disappointed.
The interviews were a waste.
Just a few questions and it was over.
It didn't develop into a discussion.
It felt force and not natural.
This worked very well on his old show as that was a make believe news show
not a interview show and the show was more monologue and very little interview
He will have to change the format completely
He's not a stand up comedian so he shouldn't try to be
He's like a fish out of water.
He's very good at skits so he has to do more of that .
This is not that type of show.
This show will fail and he will be lucky if it isn't cancelled before thanksgiving
which is a good thing as someone like Craig Ferguson or Dick Cavett should have been chosen.
The interviews were a waste.
Just a few questions and it was over.
It didn't develop into a discussion.
It felt force and not natural.
This worked very well on his old show as that was a make believe news show
not a interview show and the show was more monologue and very little interview
He will have to change the format completely
He's not a stand up comedian so he shouldn't try to be
He's like a fish out of water.
He's very good at skits so he has to do more of that .
This is not that type of show.
This show will fail and he will be lucky if it isn't cancelled before thanksgiving
which is a good thing as someone like Craig Ferguson or Dick Cavett should have been chosen.
4
Dick Cavett? I watched him with my mom when I was a little kid. I am well into my 50s. What does that make Dick Cavett?
Stephen Colbert is new at this type of late show, so he deserves some time to develop in this arena. Still, given his reputation, I expected a smarter show and a more rapid fire host, without the juvenile jokes. He seemed lost at times amid unfunny to embarrassing bits, both with his props and his guests.
In my opinion the problem is too many cooks, too many unfunny bits and a badly edited show. Trim down the writing staff. Get some guts into the booking of guests and give the man something he can get his teeth into where his intelligence and that of his guests will be allowed to shine through. Try doing it in the next year, please.
Oh, another tiny quibble: from where I sat, someone really needed to give Ms. Staples a live mic. I could barely hear her. Such a shame.
In my opinion the problem is too many cooks, too many unfunny bits and a badly edited show. Trim down the writing staff. Get some guts into the booking of guests and give the man something he can get his teeth into where his intelligence and that of his guests will be allowed to shine through. Try doing it in the next year, please.
Oh, another tiny quibble: from where I sat, someone really needed to give Ms. Staples a live mic. I could barely hear her. Such a shame.
6
I liked The Colbert Report and had high hopes for The Late Show. However, the jokes were puerile, the dialogue was facile, and I did not finish the show. How about getting some new writers to take good advantage of Colbert's talent?
5
It's a sad waste. I guess Stephen Colbert has to make a living but he's too good to play the dancing monkey for the great commercial organ grinder. To reach the "heights" of late night TV, any TV, you must dumb down to your audience. Sorry, I can't be any more polite. It's a long way from Jack Paar, Steve Allen and Dick Cavett, even Johnny Carson, the (classy) every-schnook. Will Stephen Colbert's audience stand for his not being silly? Let's hope.
2
Glad he won't have 9 months to prepare for every show. Gave us the fire hose treatment when a couple of bottles of fizzie would have more than quenched our thirst -- and tasted better, too.
With all that prep time, why in the #@!! did he have Jeb on as a guest? Didn't he get Trump's memo that Jeb's low energy (...and essentially irrelevant)? Jeb's not worthy of a regular night guest appearance -- let alone opening night!
And 5+ minutes of "Everyday People" -- great & fitting song, but waaaaay overdone -- perhaps it's because of eating too many Oreos.
Hope for better....If not, any chance of getting Dave back?
With all that prep time, why in the #@!! did he have Jeb on as a guest? Didn't he get Trump's memo that Jeb's low energy (...and essentially irrelevant)? Jeb's not worthy of a regular night guest appearance -- let alone opening night!
And 5+ minutes of "Everyday People" -- great & fitting song, but waaaaay overdone -- perhaps it's because of eating too many Oreos.
Hope for better....If not, any chance of getting Dave back?
3
It reminded me of the Pat Sajak show- a funny guy not comfortable as a host. My doubts about his ability to transition from the old shell to a new late night show were confirmed. This show cannot last too long unless he finds a new niche here.
1
Mr. Peepers does the Late Show.
1
The Times headline says Colbert "Tries to bring big back to late night." I didn't know Colbert had a "big back." I know he's got a weird ear. But a "big back?" I don't see any "big back" on him. Do you?
Well I consider myself a fan of Stephen Colbert, fairly liberal, and have to say, I am just not the biggest fan of this format for late night tv. I cannot figure out why late night has sort of gone the way of frenetic English humor. It is just not that funny to me. I love a good comedian who can entertain with good solid everyday, political, etc. humor, without the need to add all sort of crazy ridiculous antics. It suggests to me a lack of real jokes, and a need to supplement with something else. Maybe I am old school and just miss subdued not overstated Carson, Leno, Letterman, or even Seinfeld type of humor. It is just funny, without adding so much that appeals to a more juvenile sense of humor. I guess that is where humor has gone these days. Just not that big of a fan of it.
I thought the bit about selling his soul requiring him to promote products was clever. As products go that hummus isn't the worst thing you could eat. Oreos's are a terrible food - not good for you but highly addictive. I don't think Oreos was a product placement - I think it was there because Trump brought it up. I thought it was hilarious on several levels. First, it got to make fun of Trump. Second, it dissed the media for being out of control pigs. Third, the Hydrox substitution bit was very funny if you remember being disappointed when offerred the cheaper versions at a school party.
1
thanks . . . I had forgotten about "hydrox" . . . geez i feel old . . .
enough said . . .
william wilson dallas texas . . .
enough said . . .
william wilson dallas texas . . .
Frankly, I found this first show not to be very funny at all. The two "bits" with the creature, and the Oreos were just not funny. It smelled of "trying way too hard." The Trump piece at least made me smile. Colbert is a much more rigid, direct host. I'm not sure if people will settle in to watch him for an hour, five nights a week, for 33 years. But, it was just a first show. You gotta give him some time to get comfy. But this first show was a bomb - just a mess. And can someone tell this Baptiste guy to take a pill and calm down? He comes off as a hyper-puppy, just yapping at everything. Annoying.
Colbert's voice at a high pitch throughout, like he's trying to be heard over noise. He interrupts his guests constantly, like, relax Steve, the audience will hear you every night! Let a guest speak for cryin' out loud! Johnny Carson's secret weapon was letting his guests talk. Once a guest just didn't say anything, and neither did Carson. The silence was hilarious! The bit with Clooney was forced and simply awful, but probably cost a bundle. Altogether the show was a headache, and the last song about ordinary people or something dragged on for so long I thought it would never end, and it annoyingly kept playing in my head! Neither my wife nor I laughed even once. What a disappointment! And the applause cheerleader overdid his job 10 times over. Every last thing gets applause and whoops and hollers? Good grief Charlie Brown!
1
Face it, the show jumped the shark at the Ashley Madison reference in the tepid Leno-esque monologue. You could see Steven's shoulders slump in defeat. He should have cut to The Mentalist right there.
Maybe not. I see him as trying to do something extremely difficult: make a late network talk show significant again. In the "Report" he transformed the interview format by making the conversation about the topic at hand rather than the interviewee. One of his tricks to achieve this was I his introduction to the guest. Without letting on an interview was about to start, he would begin talking about an important subject in an interesting and humorous way, as if he were doing another monologue. Then he would slide into "and here to tell me I'm wrong about that is..." or something of the sort, and suddenly there is the guest, already on stage. Then his mock-egotistical jog from his desk, drawing all applause to himself, kept the focus from being on the physical presence of the guest - instead, the ideas just brought up hung in the air and were brought over to the guest. I am very curious to see if he could possibly maintain intelligent interviews and keep a network mass audience.
Maybe not. I see him as trying to do something extremely difficult: make a late network talk show significant again. In the "Report" he transformed the interview format by making the conversation about the topic at hand rather than the interviewee. One of his tricks to achieve this was I his introduction to the guest. Without letting on an interview was about to start, he would begin talking about an important subject in an interesting and humorous way, as if he were doing another monologue. Then he would slide into "and here to tell me I'm wrong about that is..." or something of the sort, and suddenly there is the guest, already on stage. Then his mock-egotistical jog from his desk, drawing all applause to himself, kept the focus from being on the physical presence of the guest - instead, the ideas just brought up hung in the air and were brought over to the guest. I am very curious to see if he could possibly maintain intelligent interviews and keep a network mass audience.
1
Adore you Stephen, whatever you do. I've been a faithful enjoyer for years--I'm not in your targeted age range at all. 81 now!! and still working as a Museum Curator! I watched you inaugural Late Show. Stayed up late for you. Bush bombed as usual! And your audience noticed! Keep singing, being you, whoever that is. And Thank you for all the joy you share.
Cheers, Roz
Cheers, Roz
2
Oh come on people. We all know the Hydrox cookies are the poor man's Oreo. Lighten up. My husband and I are on our way to our seventies. We were screaming laughing. But, Jeb Bush? Sara Palin would have been a lot funnier. And she speaks American.
15
Just to clarify...Hydrox came first, a few years before Oreos appeared.
Oreo was the imitator (and Hydrox were always better, too!).
Oreo was the imitator (and Hydrox were always better, too!).
Did anyone notice how blue the set was? Including Stephen's suit, it was hard for me to watch.
5
I felt the same. A bit garish.
why, what's so particularly hard to watch about blue?
I found the Oreo skit very funny, and I enjoyed the Clooney "interview". I never cared for David Letterman's humor. Maybe all the negative commenters are resenting Davids retirement and expecting Mr. Colbert to be David reborn. Well these are two very different people and this is a completely different show. I hope it finds it's audience, or rather the audience finds it. ( Hey CBS, we are out here, watching.)
16
It was alright. I was disappointed that his political preference was shoved down our throat like with the others that keep us separated by one extreme party or the other. He could have learned from watching Leno on staying.in the middle. A lot of people love Trump, I bet after last night they'll be turning the channel. Anyone that could possibly change the way we do politics has to be ridiculed and put in his place. Let's spend the next four years bitch ing how they are all all the same and get nothing passed.
Intrinsically people don't like change... not even the extreme liberals of Colbert Nation... fans are just not used to seeing the new Stephen stepping out of the left corner...
Fox News fed Colbert with endless opportunities to poke fun of... but now he can no longer ridicule the right with impunity... on this bigger bipartisan stage, Colbert has constituent audiences on both sides to worry about and pander to...
Stephen Colbert had said he's finally free without his old persona restrictions... i'd say his hands are more tied than ever.
Fox News fed Colbert with endless opportunities to poke fun of... but now he can no longer ridicule the right with impunity... on this bigger bipartisan stage, Colbert has constituent audiences on both sides to worry about and pander to...
Stephen Colbert had said he's finally free without his old persona restrictions... i'd say his hands are more tied than ever.
13
From reading many of the comments here, it seems quite clear that viewers who watched Colbert last night almost naturally fall into 4 distinct quadrants:
Imagine a cross shape - a horizontal and a vertical line crossing in the middle. If you're left of the vertical (Left, Liberal), you tend to be effusively supportive of Colbert - he could do (and did no) wrong last night. A lot of that may be warm feelings of how good politically he was on the old Colbert Report, and he's getting a pass for last night with that halo effect.
If you're right of the vertical (Right, Conservative), you watched his schtick last night and was wondering what all of the hype the last 3 months was all about.
If you're below the horizontal line, representing let's say 35-40 years of age, once again you're generally all pro-Colbert, and think some of his funniest, cleverest bits were the amulet and the Oreo thing.
Above the horizontal, you're thinking "I stayed up for this?"
Three questions then come to my mind:
1) I wonder what the people who fall into the top left quadrant thought about the show - you know, the Left Liberals over 35-40? Did the political stabs more than offset the juvenile humor?
2) Similarly, how about the viewers in the lower right quadrant - Right Conservatives but young? Was the humor sharp, clever, and "young" enough to offset the obvious left leanings?
3) Maybe my parents thought the same about the early Saturday Night Live when I was young and thought it was so great
Imagine a cross shape - a horizontal and a vertical line crossing in the middle. If you're left of the vertical (Left, Liberal), you tend to be effusively supportive of Colbert - he could do (and did no) wrong last night. A lot of that may be warm feelings of how good politically he was on the old Colbert Report, and he's getting a pass for last night with that halo effect.
If you're right of the vertical (Right, Conservative), you watched his schtick last night and was wondering what all of the hype the last 3 months was all about.
If you're below the horizontal line, representing let's say 35-40 years of age, once again you're generally all pro-Colbert, and think some of his funniest, cleverest bits were the amulet and the Oreo thing.
Above the horizontal, you're thinking "I stayed up for this?"
Three questions then come to my mind:
1) I wonder what the people who fall into the top left quadrant thought about the show - you know, the Left Liberals over 35-40? Did the political stabs more than offset the juvenile humor?
2) Similarly, how about the viewers in the lower right quadrant - Right Conservatives but young? Was the humor sharp, clever, and "young" enough to offset the obvious left leanings?
3) Maybe my parents thought the same about the early Saturday Night Live when I was young and thought it was so great
3
I'm in the top left quadrant, and I loved it. I'm a gen-x-er and, frankly, juvenile is what we do best.
I'm on the horizontal and lemme tell you all I could think was I missed Rain Man for this? Yikes, What drek.JM
Wow! Some of the comments here almost remind me of the vitriol on the Youtube comment boards! Give the "Late Show with Colbert" at least a couple of weeks folks, before we rip him a new one.
I also read in another NY Times article that CBS is pretty much taking a hands-off approach to the new host and his show, and allowing his mostly veteran staff from "The Colbert Report" handle the creative and content aspects. So, everybody take it easy. I doubt CBS will get all "networky" and micro-managing about it.
Ancient Chinese proverb:
"Those who do nothing, receive no criticism."
I also read in another NY Times article that CBS is pretty much taking a hands-off approach to the new host and his show, and allowing his mostly veteran staff from "The Colbert Report" handle the creative and content aspects. So, everybody take it easy. I doubt CBS will get all "networky" and micro-managing about it.
Ancient Chinese proverb:
"Those who do nothing, receive no criticism."
31
Yet another ancient proverb states that "where there's smoke, there's fire". Drop the diluted Ed Sullivan variety format and bring back the old hard-hitting Colbert - the Colbert that got him promoted.
1
I really did not like the "cursed amulet", so please, producers, get rid of that. Overall, the show was a little boring, and kind of a let down after years of watching "Colbert Report", but then, as others have noted, maybe Letterman wasn't as good at the beginning as it was at the end. Who knows? Maybe Colbert Report also got better with age. In any event, I am willing to give it a go, and hope for the best. Stephen Colbert is the only person right now who could entice me to watch late night tv, so time will tell if he succeeds with the new format. Bon courage, Stéphane!!
17
I loved the Colbert show! By comparison, last night's event was BORING!
2
The imaginary laugh meter in my house used to ring twice as much in a typical Colbert Report, as opposed to the twice-as-long Late Show song-and-dance format, with a quarter of the laughs. Of course laughs are only one measure. The Colbert report was actually a serious commentary on the news, yet one that was funnier, more appealing, and focused. The word that comes to mind for the new show is "diluted" - Colbert Lite for the major networks.
2
Amy Schumer tweeted it best: "You guys, we're gonna be okay. @StephenAtHome s got us." We could nitpick about the segments that didn't quite work, but even some aspects of those had a positive element. (In not dazzling us with George Clooney, Colbert stripped away some of the gloss and fluff from the celebrity hype that we regularly consume.) The theme of the show-- a coming together despite differences-- was, I hope, a harbinger of things to come. The final musical number, "Everyday People," was a beautiful and uplifting way to end the evening, both because of the song's lyrics and the melange of performers,. Every aspect of every show doesn't have to be out of this world for us to enjoy this nightly after-dinner treat and appreciate that we're not watching The Mentalist. I don't know you, Stephen Colbert, but I think I'm gonna like you.
9
I'll keep watching. It took me a little while to get used to "The Colbert Report," and this may be no different. Stephen is at his best when he is himself - completely delighted to be there, and human. He's a very bright man, and he'll figure out what works and what doesn't work. As for me, I'm glad I know how to work my DVR because I'm not giving up Larry Wilmore, and I'm still waiting to see how Trevor Noah works out.
11
I had high hopes, but the show was quite a letdown. It was though he was trying way too hard. Maybe, he can settle in and be a funny guy and a good host.
I only catch late evening television about once a wee and generally just channel flip if a routine or a guest gets boring.
I'll watch a few more nights of Colbert to see if there's anything there. Then it's back to flipping on my night to watch those shows. My suspicion is that Colbert is too much of a narcissist (that, "it's all about me" attitude) to settle down and become a watchable talk show host.
I only catch late evening television about once a wee and generally just channel flip if a routine or a guest gets boring.
I'll watch a few more nights of Colbert to see if there's anything there. Then it's back to flipping on my night to watch those shows. My suspicion is that Colbert is too much of a narcissist (that, "it's all about me" attitude) to settle down and become a watchable talk show host.
2
What I learned from this show is:
I will certainly never buy Oreo cookies, or any product that is owned by its parent company (Nabisco?; I'll look it up). Oddly, it was Trump who informed the audience that Oreo had moved its factory from the US to Mexico. (And why didn't Colbert ask Bush about that?).
Second, if you're going to take over a well-established show from someone else, change the show completely. Absolutely completely. Redefine the format, the "hook," the reason for being on the air. And stop fawning all over yourself.
As much as I like, respect and admire Colbert and his talent, this show was such a disappointment. Nine months to prepare and it was like something thrown together in a pinch on extremely short notice - like Letterman had died unexpectedly and the network had to scramble for a stand-in/replacement.
For all the extraordinarily talented writers in the business that he could have pulled from his own Colbert Report as well as Jon Stewart's show, this looked like a group of high-schoolers penned something idiotic just to get the assignment turned in.
Disappointing, but there's hope.
I will certainly never buy Oreo cookies, or any product that is owned by its parent company (Nabisco?; I'll look it up). Oddly, it was Trump who informed the audience that Oreo had moved its factory from the US to Mexico. (And why didn't Colbert ask Bush about that?).
Second, if you're going to take over a well-established show from someone else, change the show completely. Absolutely completely. Redefine the format, the "hook," the reason for being on the air. And stop fawning all over yourself.
As much as I like, respect and admire Colbert and his talent, this show was such a disappointment. Nine months to prepare and it was like something thrown together in a pinch on extremely short notice - like Letterman had died unexpectedly and the network had to scramble for a stand-in/replacement.
For all the extraordinarily talented writers in the business that he could have pulled from his own Colbert Report as well as Jon Stewart's show, this looked like a group of high-schoolers penned something idiotic just to get the assignment turned in.
Disappointing, but there's hope.
9
"Nine months to prepare and it was like something thrown together in a pinch on extremely short notice"
My sentiments exactly! Maybe those writers are of the ilk that they need to have "deadline pressure" staring them in the face in order to put some stuff on paper, and can't work with lots of prep time. If so, last night's effort does not bode well for a weeknightly show.
I do disagree with your generous assessment that it "looked like a group of high-schoolers penned something idiotic;" it was more lower middle-schooler level to me.
My sentiments exactly! Maybe those writers are of the ilk that they need to have "deadline pressure" staring them in the face in order to put some stuff on paper, and can't work with lots of prep time. If so, last night's effort does not bode well for a weeknightly show.
I do disagree with your generous assessment that it "looked like a group of high-schoolers penned something idiotic;" it was more lower middle-schooler level to me.
3
My same thoughts. ..9 months of development should have wrought a more entertaining show..I saw the 1st Letterman, First Conan, First James Corden. ..all had moments to have you seeing moments of brilliance. ..this show was just sadly...akward. The coloring was hard to see thru the blue hue, the 2 bits were product placements that fell flat. The most charming actor in Hollywood came off as dull and then Colbert still Craig Ferguson's "akward pause". Colbert seemed to get his footing w/Jeb but couldn't understand why he would publicly tell Jeb would never get his vote (don't need to show you aren't a conservative ). And Jon Batiste led a great all star jam session, but then the folks kept coming...and then Colbert overplayed his hand and chose to join the crowded stage. It is not that Colbert has an awful voice. ..but it is more of a character actor in a musical and he should leave his singing for funny bits and not to share the stage w/musical legends. His singing showed how much better Cordon and more importantly, Jimmy Fallon's musical chops. Don't allow yourself to look bad in comparison.
But Colbert is a talented, nice guy. ..perhaps a not so nice guy should fire some people he brought from Colbert Report and find a new voice. ...good luck Stephen. ..a fan.
But Colbert is a talented, nice guy. ..perhaps a not so nice guy should fire some people he brought from Colbert Report and find a new voice. ...good luck Stephen. ..a fan.
I enjoyed the show and laughed a lot.
As one who is still in mourning over the recent and extremely untimely disappearance of The Daily Show and The Colbert Report, Colbert's entry onto the "big stage" of network late-night television felt a bit like watching one of my kids go from playing a fine piano recital to appearing as soloist in front of a major orchestra. I take the long view: this man has phenomenal intelligence, brassy comedic chops, and razor-sharp satirical instincts. He will develop himself and will craft his show to take advantage of the circumstances soon enough, or just leave and bring the rest of us along to try a new planet. Either way works for me.
31
Everyone needs to take a deep cleansing breath.
Try to remain calm.
Retreat to a safe place within.
Now . . . Let's all remember:
The expectation level here was clinically insane.
Late night hosts often start slow. Remember Letterman? Conan? Fallon? Awkward x 3. But all found their feet. (This would be a good place to not mention Chevy Chase.)
Colbert is a brilliant man, but he has never portrayed himself onstage before. It's going to take a while for him to figure it out.
Those behind the scenes deserve to take some heat here. Whoever decided to let the show go crazy-long and then to edit it back (but not enough) should be fired immediately. Predictably, that approach fed the lack of dynamic tension last night.
Similarly, it's already time to fire the booker. Smug George Clooney (without even a project to discuss!) and Jeb "The Human Ambien" Bush? Where the heck was The Donald when we needed him? Or even that trashy little Miley Cyrus? If the producers can't find an immediate replacement for the fired booker, they should know that there is a middle-aged housewife up here in Northern Westchester ready to serve at reasonable rates.
Nation:
Turn off your DVR for a week. Then turn it back on for a night. If you're not happy yet, repeat this procedure until you are. I am confident that Stephen Colbert will deliver if only we give him the chance.
Try to remain calm.
Retreat to a safe place within.
Now . . . Let's all remember:
The expectation level here was clinically insane.
Late night hosts often start slow. Remember Letterman? Conan? Fallon? Awkward x 3. But all found their feet. (This would be a good place to not mention Chevy Chase.)
Colbert is a brilliant man, but he has never portrayed himself onstage before. It's going to take a while for him to figure it out.
Those behind the scenes deserve to take some heat here. Whoever decided to let the show go crazy-long and then to edit it back (but not enough) should be fired immediately. Predictably, that approach fed the lack of dynamic tension last night.
Similarly, it's already time to fire the booker. Smug George Clooney (without even a project to discuss!) and Jeb "The Human Ambien" Bush? Where the heck was The Donald when we needed him? Or even that trashy little Miley Cyrus? If the producers can't find an immediate replacement for the fired booker, they should know that there is a middle-aged housewife up here in Northern Westchester ready to serve at reasonable rates.
Nation:
Turn off your DVR for a week. Then turn it back on for a night. If you're not happy yet, repeat this procedure until you are. I am confident that Stephen Colbert will deliver if only we give him the chance.
16
This first show reminded me of Chevy Chase's first effort at a talk show--awkward, uncomfortable, and not funny. Chase was bounced, but I think Colbert will evolve and get better with time in the new gig.
2
Re: "But with Jeb Bush....[Colbert asked how he [would] differ from [his brother] on policy. (Mr. Bush said he’d be more fiscally conservative...."
So "Jeb Bush", that is, John Ellis Bush Bush, Bush Bush for short, would be more "fiscally conservative" than his brother? What does that mean? He'd crash the economy twice as severely as Bush II did? I'll be looking forward to that.
So "Jeb Bush", that is, John Ellis Bush Bush, Bush Bush for short, would be more "fiscally conservative" than his brother? What does that mean? He'd crash the economy twice as severely as Bush II did? I'll be looking forward to that.
9
It might be that CBS accurately chose Stephen Colbert to recruit a younger audience, in part to replace us old-timers who soon will be ... well, you know. In my very unscientific "poll" today, including among my students in my virtual training, all of the students under 40 thought the show was entertaining. Some said "enlightening". However, among my peers, all of them thought the show was "over the top", "childish", "sophomoric", etc. Hmmm.
5
The show was fine, I thought it was funny, and I think it will get better and better.
I would cut that conversation with that goat-like thing, it was boring and stupid. Just as stupid as a lot of things that Jimmy Fallon does.
Some of the comments mentioned the segment with George Clooney as not being the best. George Clooney is not a funny guy at all although he tries so hard to be funny when he appears on TV, so I wasn't surprised that his segment wasn't the best.
I am glad that Colbert didn't do any of those stupid stuff with his hosts as I've seen in the other late night shows.
I would cut that conversation with that goat-like thing, it was boring and stupid. Just as stupid as a lot of things that Jimmy Fallon does.
Some of the comments mentioned the segment with George Clooney as not being the best. George Clooney is not a funny guy at all although he tries so hard to be funny when he appears on TV, so I wasn't surprised that his segment wasn't the best.
I am glad that Colbert didn't do any of those stupid stuff with his hosts as I've seen in the other late night shows.
I enjoyed Mr. Colbert's presentation much more than the TBS and NBC programs. Those two are like a third-grade birthday party.
3
I was firmly on the old David Letterman team. I had watched Letterman in his various incarnations since the mid-1980s, and was a big fan. For Mr. Poniewozik (welcome to the NY Times, BTW) to say there was no tradition to be extended from Dave's era to the Colbert gig in a way analogous to the fabled Johnny Carson/Tonight's Show tradition is not so. Letterman was the biggest innovator in late night since Steve Allen. He took a stale formula and made it ironic, biting, sarcastic and absurd in equal measures. Ask Jon Stewart, a huge Letterman fan.
From the look of things so far, Colbert has brought very little new to this format. Apparently, the biggest show was to be seen by looking up, at a newly revealed ceiling dome. Well, maybe Colbert has done wonders showing us a "new" Ed Sullivan theater, but I personally dislike his rah-rah-rah patriotism and the various new red, white and blue themed logos everywhere.
And what is with the electric sign on his desk front? Anybody who thought there was going to be some huge difference between the old blowhard political pundit and the new. slightly more relaxed Colbert was in for a disappointment. It turns out the "old" Colbert and whoever the "real" guy is are quite similar. Even in his 50s, he is a fabulously gifted physical comedian. I hope he makes more use of these skills of his. The unfreezing of the "real" Stephen Colbert may or may not be worth the wait, but he better get going. Time's a wasting.
2
Times a wastin'?! It's been one show!
7
How something begins says a lot about how it will turn out. An overly-long, not-particularly thrilling first show needs an immediate corrective effort. At this rate, I expect very ho-hum results and ratings for The Late Show a year from now, which will be election season, BTW. Why have Jeb and Joe Biden on now? Have your big name show business friends on now. Is George Clooney Mr. Colbert's idea of big-time Hollywood? Clooney's okay, but hardly electric as a guest, no matter who the host is. At this rate, Fallon and Kimmel have nothing to worry about.
2
Didn't see the show, but am glad to hear that Colbert likes and endorses the hummus. There are many countries much more deserving of being boycotted than Israel.
1
Too bad he didn't pronounce it "chhuuumas"
Sabra. That's the same hummus that gave me and many other Americans listeria a few months ago. So I guess I'm not a fan. BTW, to compensate me for my severe intestinal illness, the company provided me with coupons for more of their hummus!
Did no one notice the blinding speed with which Mr. Colbert changed the subject when George Clooney uttered the magic word 'genocide' (referring to his charitable efforts in Darfur)? In a millisecond it was "so how's your wife"!
Apparently no reality tolerated around here.
Apparently no reality tolerated around here.
Can you blame him? Will middle America tune in for The Genocide Hour?
Try Frontline on PBS.
Try Frontline on PBS.
6
Oh, I would not doubt for a minute that Mr. C. was quietly advised of the OTHER Mr. C. posing a risk of throwing in a noncommercial downer like genocide and to be ready to do exactly what he did.
Very very few funny moments. Oreo skit went on far to long. I didn't find the band particularly good. I hope it gets better soon. It took Fallon about a year before he became comfortable at it and made it somewhat watchable, so I hope Colbert does it more quickly.
3
There once was this guy who coined the word "truthiness" on his very first solo show. It made the dictionary as the top new word that year. His show came on at 11:30 pm and every night I laughed and felt more awake at the end of his show. I forget that guy's name, but he was good.
Last night I fell asleep watching this new guy Stephen Colbert on The Late Show.
Last night I fell asleep watching this new guy Stephen Colbert on The Late Show.
3
Didn't watch, but judging from the photo of Colbert with a big fake smile stretched across his face (reminded me of Mr. Sardonicus) when he's with Jeb Bush, just told me it was the same old, same old - celebrity butt kissing. But Colbert's income probably increased a thousand times, so who can blame him. I wonder if he's ever read "Faust."
1
That's a biting indictment from someone who didn't even watch the show.
This was a fair-enough review, but I wouldn't have called Jon Stewart "...his old pal". Jon is an executive producer for this show, a mentor to Stephen and, certainly a friend. I think "old pal" doesn't underscore the relationship there and I, for one, was overjoyed when JS popped off the catchers mask to yell "play ball!!", an appropriate individual to signal the start of Colbert's latest reincarnation. As for the show itself: I liked it, but didn't love it. I'm not a fan of either guest, but I thought Stephen was funny and displayed his sharp wit and talent throughout. To the fans of The Colbert Report and Late Night with David Letterman who are "meh" about this: Give it some time. Nobody can please everybody and this is the very first show of a new experiment in which nobody yet knows the result. However, with the wit and intelligence of Stephen, I have no doubt he'll be successful. Change is hard, but it's almost always worthwhile. And nothing of real value lasts forever. Let's see how this show evolves.
5
Home run. As funny as he was in his alter ego, if not more since it was easier to be a conservative twit. His timing and inflection were right on. He rhymes with Letterman the same way Letterman rhymed with Steve Allen.
3
I'll give him a try. It is probably difficult to move from a highly scripted 30 minute show to something that is at least twice that in airtime and much less controllable. I didn't watch his previous show, but perhaps he needs some more experience to get more comfortable and more able to just let the discussion happen. Bush certainly didn't help as a guest and Clooney was okay but predictable....except for the arm candy comment. I agree that the Sabra idol may be a new classic.....it reminded me of the strange wild things that would often show up on Ferguson....and some early Letterman.
3
I want the Colbert Report back.
11
Please don't bring it up. It's too painful.
5
Not a bad start at all for his debut---the Oreo/Trump routine was classic Colbert. He's already hitting some of stride from jump, and I'm looking forward to seeing his new show develop.
8
Think the older brother there was Billy, not Jay. The show did make me appreciate his old persona who could just skewer politicians by asking anything in any twisted way. But I like Stephen Colbert and trust the show will become more than a sum of its parts, given more time.
4
Note to CBS: Felt like an hour of ads with occasional glimpses of Mr Colbert, who seemed to be hawking products during most of his screen time as well. And I was fast-forwarding through the paid ads.
5
Observational optimism: Only tv host to NOT have his chair moronically jacked up so he's "looking down and superior" to all his guests.
Perhaps that bodes well in that viewers might have found a host without a massive inferiority complex.
Perhaps that bodes well in that viewers might have found a host without a massive inferiority complex.
4
I have been a Colbert fan. After last night I'm not so sure.
Geo Clooney is surely showing his age!
2
Mr. Colbert might make use of the following: ". . . which rendered New York City as a living toy landscape, suggest a Wes Andersonian spirit of meticulously curated, experimental-yet-preservationist play. . ."
Down, Boy, Down! Dammit!
Down, Boy, Down! Dammit!
1
I loved the "Colbert Report" and I think Colbert is a brilliant guy. I hope this new show will find it's footing. But of his many talents "singing" is not really one of them. Yes, he can sing ok and in tune most of the time, and that's fine for a party or camp out. But not on TV, please. I know singing is really fun, but when you can get Mavis Staples to sing on your show, you really don't need to join in.
3
I am giving him a break, but he needs to just be his own smart self and go with it. Make it as yourself or do something else. Better luck tonight. I'll be watching again and hope he just let's his self shine.
4
For CBS executives, sounds like an encouraging start.
For everyone else, a discouraging start.
For everyone else, a discouraging start.
7
alas, i was a bit let down.
not sure why...
it seemed a bit over blown and lacking his wry warmth...
not sure why...
it seemed a bit over blown and lacking his wry warmth...
9
Why in heavens' name are there five articles on a late-night television show? Why was this show and this man the subject of much discussion on NPR this morning? When did television shows become so newsworthy? Who cares?
7
Clearly a lot of people do! I'm really out of it, thank goodness.
It's great that, apparently, you saw all those articles. Read them, too? Let's see, please tell me what you want to see more of. I hardly saw a story today about death, destruction, murder, or mayhem. Oh my!
It was a great opening night, overstuffed, conspicuous edits and all. With all the advance hype, it was bound to disappoint some as SC was too much or too little related to his classic character for some.
Clearly his energy, improvisational talents and comfort in his zany skin are huge assets.
His Trump card of the night was the narrated video editing on the Donald, so rendering the leading Republican candidate into an unwitting orchestrator of jibberish in turn juxapposed to the not so fleet of foot clumsiness of Jebberish!
I predict Cobert will do for Trump what Tina Fey did by different means on SNL for Ms Palin.
Humor trumps anger!
Bravo!
Clearly his energy, improvisational talents and comfort in his zany skin are huge assets.
His Trump card of the night was the narrated video editing on the Donald, so rendering the leading Republican candidate into an unwitting orchestrator of jibberish in turn juxapposed to the not so fleet of foot clumsiness of Jebberish!
I predict Cobert will do for Trump what Tina Fey did by different means on SNL for Ms Palin.
Humor trumps anger!
Bravo!
7
Colbert, as an entertainer, has more demonstrable talents than his contemporaries and his predecessors. He will create his own niche and his own following. But he has two things going against him: the fickleness of the digital age and the fact that he isn't Letterman.
3
Colbert sold his soul to the devil (CBS). His friend, Jon Stewart, helped him (EP credits) although wisely didn’t go down the same path.
It didn’t work out.
The Devil (CBS) bought his soul, rubbing his fists counting the imaginary upcoming money.
It didn’t work out.
The people want Colbert to be smart and fearless and anti-establishment. Last night he looked like a Prada knock-off forced on a pair of khakis.
It’s not going to work out.
CBS (Moonves?) lacks any taste. Its newscast have always had the most provincial feel in the Northern Hemisphere. Its creedo: the plainest, the dumbest, the better. Even Ernie Anastos, who looked like a stuffed puppet or a painted cadaver during his CBS News years, looks cool and edgy and alive at Fox. So the fault is somewhere at CBS.
There was not one interesting, edgy thought in any of the bits. One funny bit, yes (the Trump one, of course. Thank you Donald, even in absence you saved the show) but all the rest was an obvious sell-out.
Colbert we all love you. If you want the Devil to wear real Prada and make real money, take your soul back, and do it your way.
We are rooting for you!
It didn’t work out.
The Devil (CBS) bought his soul, rubbing his fists counting the imaginary upcoming money.
It didn’t work out.
The people want Colbert to be smart and fearless and anti-establishment. Last night he looked like a Prada knock-off forced on a pair of khakis.
It’s not going to work out.
CBS (Moonves?) lacks any taste. Its newscast have always had the most provincial feel in the Northern Hemisphere. Its creedo: the plainest, the dumbest, the better. Even Ernie Anastos, who looked like a stuffed puppet or a painted cadaver during his CBS News years, looks cool and edgy and alive at Fox. So the fault is somewhere at CBS.
There was not one interesting, edgy thought in any of the bits. One funny bit, yes (the Trump one, of course. Thank you Donald, even in absence you saved the show) but all the rest was an obvious sell-out.
Colbert we all love you. If you want the Devil to wear real Prada and make real money, take your soul back, and do it your way.
We are rooting for you!
8
Last night’s show was great!! I enjoyed every minute. I really hope tonight’s show is just as good. I’m really glad to see that Colbert’s not leaving out the political humor. The segment on Trump was a real classic. He captured the essence of Trump’s campaign in minutes better than a lot of journalists have done in months. He also exposed the cowardice shown by some journalists and the fawning shown by others.
6
"It is maybe the biggest slight and highest compiment to say that none of the episode's best bits seemed especially viral."
"This show may not completely know what it is yet..."
Amen to both those points. As far as the rest of the reviewer's fawning points, I disagree. I thought the whole show was rather unfunny. Another commenter said it best - "puerile." I would add "juvenile," too.
C'mon - the (extended to the point of excruciating to watch) bit with the cursed amulet controlling Colbert. That sort of "funny" went out in 7th grade 40 years ago.
And then there was the also-overlong bit with the Oreos - and this was the huge comedic talent that was being hyped for the last few months? This is the guy my niece and nephew used to rave all about? Maybe "funny" has been dumbed down for everybody under the age of 35 now.
Even the pre-filmed bits with Clooney in "Disaster Strike" looked so amateurish. Oh wait - I get it. They're supposed to look amateurish and cheap, wink wink.
The house band also seemed underwhelming, given all the pre-show hype, but there are two things I've got to hand it to Colbert -
1) He's the best, most wiry and fluid dancin' white guy in a suit, and
2) When he does that wide-eyed mugging for the camera, America has finally found its real-life "Where's Waldo?" doll
After last night, Leslie Moonves better hang on to the rights to "The Mentalist" re-runs. He might need them soon.
"This show may not completely know what it is yet..."
Amen to both those points. As far as the rest of the reviewer's fawning points, I disagree. I thought the whole show was rather unfunny. Another commenter said it best - "puerile." I would add "juvenile," too.
C'mon - the (extended to the point of excruciating to watch) bit with the cursed amulet controlling Colbert. That sort of "funny" went out in 7th grade 40 years ago.
And then there was the also-overlong bit with the Oreos - and this was the huge comedic talent that was being hyped for the last few months? This is the guy my niece and nephew used to rave all about? Maybe "funny" has been dumbed down for everybody under the age of 35 now.
Even the pre-filmed bits with Clooney in "Disaster Strike" looked so amateurish. Oh wait - I get it. They're supposed to look amateurish and cheap, wink wink.
The house band also seemed underwhelming, given all the pre-show hype, but there are two things I've got to hand it to Colbert -
1) He's the best, most wiry and fluid dancin' white guy in a suit, and
2) When he does that wide-eyed mugging for the camera, America has finally found its real-life "Where's Waldo?" doll
After last night, Leslie Moonves better hang on to the rights to "The Mentalist" re-runs. He might need them soon.
6
I was not impressed. The whole George Clooney Decision Strike was too over the top to be the least bit funny. I only saw a portion of the Jeb Bush interview but I thought Colbert was far too lenient with Bush, considering Jeb's untrue and malicious attack on Obama's handling of the presidency. Sorry, not a fan!
8
Eh, it was fine for a first night. Loved the singing. Hated the way "Jeb!" got away with his lies--where's the quick thinking Colbert who points out hypocrisy in interviews when you need him?
I've realized that what I loved most about TCB, and what I'll miss most of all, is the satire. Is there any place for satire on late night television now? John Oliver is holding it all up, and somewhat more weakly than most of us would like.
I've realized that what I loved most about TCB, and what I'll miss most of all, is the satire. Is there any place for satire on late night television now? John Oliver is holding it all up, and somewhat more weakly than most of us would like.
12
I'm a fan of Stephen Colbert. I watched. I waited. I was disappointed. His wit was dumbed down, I guess for middle America (who were never his fans). I think the fawning over him is undeserved, at least for the first night of his new show. I'm going to give it a couple of weeks and tune in again. Maybe he'll find his stride get back to actually being funny AND cutting edge. Please, Stephen, don't turn into yet another celebrating coddling, late night, anti intellectual. We need better. We need your best. We can't have you just mugging for the camera and resting on your laurels.
61
oh relax, jeez, it was his first show. I thought he was great. Dumbed down? where????
1
The numerous commercials were appalling. With the half hour format, you could count on two breaks. I wonder if Colbert can sustain and hour program?
6
I totally agree about the over abundance of advertising. Perhaps Mr. Colbert and Mr. Fallon are working together to raise the overall viewership for late night television. Hopefully this will include syncing their programming so we can miss all the commercials when flipping between the two shows.
5
Pre-record, and start watching 20 minutes in so you can zip past the commercials. I haven't watched TV any other way in years.
We noticed that there was quite a number of public service type "ads", likr Fovctors Without Borders. We were astounded at how many of them were decent "ads" for real organizations doing real things to help real people.
Yes, there were alot of "ads," but percentage-wise a very high number of public service bits.
Had a feeling this was somehow a subtle way of stating what the show's real feeling is about how to handle our problems.
Yes, there were alot of "ads," but percentage-wise a very high number of public service bits.
Had a feeling this was somehow a subtle way of stating what the show's real feeling is about how to handle our problems.
1
It is such a shame that political TV comedy only goes one way. Only half the country laughs. Republicans are the only ones ever skewered. Maybe once in a while the Left wing leaning co-hosts will pitch a nice clean softball making fun of Democrats. With Leno gone the Left now owns TV political comedy. Now just for a minute think of a political comedy show that makes fun of left wing politics and people like Joe Biden, Harry Reid, Al Sharpton, Hillary and Bill, Planned Parenthood or BLM. To see an audience Hysterical at someone making fun of Mr. Obama will never be seen as it is not allowed and will not be tolerated. I mean really, to see a skit of Harry Reid in colorful 1960s style gym shorts falling off a piece of gym equipment and exposing his
filthy Tighty- Wighteys would be a scream!
filthy Tighty- Wighteys would be a scream!
4
If you don't think there's been plenty of jokes about Democrats, you never watched The Daily Show. Trouble is, Democrats tend to have a sense of humor, so it's harder to skewer them as sharply as the humorless Republicans.
18
"Tighty- Wighteys" oh....ha ha ha what a scream! And you ask why Republicans stink at comedy?
5
" I mean really, to see a skit of Harry Reid in colorful 1960s style gym shorts falling off a piece of gym equipment and exposing his
filthy Tighty- Wighteys would be a scream!"
Sen. Reid announced today it's likely he will be permanently blind in the eye he injured in that accident. You must find that a laff riot.
Rush Limbaugh and his ilk make fun of President Obama every single day all over the radio dial; they just aren't funny.
filthy Tighty- Wighteys would be a scream!"
Sen. Reid announced today it's likely he will be permanently blind in the eye he injured in that accident. You must find that a laff riot.
Rush Limbaugh and his ilk make fun of President Obama every single day all over the radio dial; they just aren't funny.
1
I thought the show was actually pretty interesting. There was an undercurrent of seriousness and pretty high minded silliness. The Clooney interview seemed like a light bit of satire on what a celebrity interview on late night is expected to be (the "previews", the paper weight gift--pretty great stuff). While a little more heft could have been wrought from it, I thought it was pretty neat. The Bush interview seemed good, punches were pulled sometimes, but Colbert did push at certain spots. Overall, the structure of the show had a theme about bringing America together, which is frankly, very appealing. Interesting choice on the band, producing a less driving kind of music. A little less consistently arch than Letterman, a different style of interview--let's see where this is headed.
13
The one thing I love about Colbert above all else is his joy.
Last night was joyful!
Many people won't "get" Colbert and that is just fine. There are several other outlets for them.
"Play Ball!!" Indeed.
Last night was joyful!
Many people won't "get" Colbert and that is just fine. There are several other outlets for them.
"Play Ball!!" Indeed.
15
That's what people always say about a poor comic or satirist: "Oh you just don't get him." As if we are too uncool or not smart enough. No. A lot of the time, Colbert just isn't funny. Period.
1
Judith – –
Sometimes people say that about a very highly regarded comic. For example, I never "got" David Letterman. To me, he was just a smug, unfunny jerk. But the world loved him.
When people say that other people just don't "get" something, what they are really saying is that people have different tastes. No news there.
Sometimes people say that about a very highly regarded comic. For example, I never "got" David Letterman. To me, he was just a smug, unfunny jerk. But the world loved him.
When people say that other people just don't "get" something, what they are really saying is that people have different tastes. No news there.
Judith – –
Elsewhere here you have stated that you did not even watch the show! So why are you opining?
Elsewhere here you have stated that you did not even watch the show! So why are you opining?
Colbert was silly and pompous. I won't watch again. Jimmy is still king.
4
Which one?
Too much nuttiness. Please be more serious in your conversations with guests. Jeb looked very uncomfortable.
4
Jeb Bush always looks very uncomfortable. He has done some unspeakable things (see, Aileen Wuornos, executing someone certified insane, just to get reelected as governor) to feel guilty and shameful about, so it shadows him and makes him squirm in his own skin.
1
But Jeb always looks uncomfortable.
Jeb always looks uncomfortable.
3
The Times' new TV reporter should go back to his old job and so should Colbert. It's a lousy, timid review, and it was a lousy, dull show. I kept waiting for the laughs, but all I saw was puerile running around reminiscent of an Italian game show.
10
"...puerile running around...Italian game show"?
Jimmy Fallon has the market cornered on that front. If Colbert goes that route then he'd only be copying something already being served up.
Jimmy Fallon has the market cornered on that front. If Colbert goes that route then he'd only be copying something already being served up.
8
Isn't puerile something you disinfect your hands with. As long as boy-men dominate these types of shows, "puerile running around" will continue to be standard viewing fare. And now that you mention it, none of the former late talk show hosts were 12-year-olds in grown men's bodies, were they? They were grown men who acted like grown men, such as Steve Allen, Jack Paar (ok, ok), Letterman, Carson, Leno, and even that Scottish guy, Ferguson, had the mentality of at least a twenty-year-old. I suspected it would be "a lousy, dull show," so I skipped it and watched old "Chopped" episodes, instead. Now there's some REAL men.
I thought the show was wonderful. Was thrilled to see Colbert again. This is not cable so I'm sure he won't be able to use and say some of the thing's he was able to pull off previously. Only the first night. Be patient "nation."
9
I thought Colbert knocked it out of the park in his debut. I have only two related gripes: the excessive length of the commercials, and the sponsored bits (hummus and cookies). Combine the two, and there's probably only a half hour of non-sponsored content. Hopefully they'll shorten the commercials and reduce the sponsored skits.
10
"Hopefully they'll shorten the commercials and reduce the sponsored skits."
Sure, the day all my hair grows back (in its original color) and Dinah Shore rises from the grave.
Sure, the day all my hair grows back (in its original color) and Dinah Shore rises from the grave.
Not if they plan on making trillions to pay him and the top execs and the stock holders.
Neal --
I didn't even know Dinah Shore was sick.
I didn't even know Dinah Shore was sick.
Not enough food for thought. Too much silliness, pranks, tricks. Won't hold my attention if it continues like this.
7
The National Anthem was fun and inventive and got me in. But he lost me at the hummus bit/commercial. Turned it off and went to bed.
4
When I happen upon the first few episodes of Big Bang, Cheers, Seinfeld or Raymond there is self consciousness, timing problem that, as we all know, got remedied by the actors, writers, creators just getting the pieces right and characters figured out. Remember, Karen Walker didn't have that squeaky voice when the first episodes of Will and Grace were aired. I feel the same here. But, why on earth would you have the most aloof, unfunny man on your first show? Not Jeb, George Clooney. Why make it harder than it has too be? Good luck Stephen.
8
Because Clooney attracts viewers, ergo, advertising, ergo again, money. Get used to your new Stephen Colbert. He's not your Comedy Central guy any longer. And never will be again. R.I.P.
I agree 100%. Remember how awkward the first episodes of 30 Rock were? Thank goodness I didn't give up.
overhyped underperformed
8
Dear Mr. Colbert and staff.
I am the biggest fan and I look forward to a new creation on TV that I am sure you and your staff of talented writers will fuse together over time. A suggestion, if I may so humbly add; interview authors, politicians and scientist and people who contribute to society in interesting and meaningful ways. No actors please! They are just too boring.
I am the biggest fan and I look forward to a new creation on TV that I am sure you and your staff of talented writers will fuse together over time. A suggestion, if I may so humbly add; interview authors, politicians and scientist and people who contribute to society in interesting and meaningful ways. No actors please! They are just too boring.
44
I agree. Leave the actors to the other late night hosts. It's all they've got. But bring in the Brainy Bunch, and you have my attention!
I agree. Stephen would do well taking a look back at the Jack Paar show.
I so much wish that what you suggest were possible in today's America.
1
The show was not particularly funny and only mildly engaging. Back to Fallon for me.
3
Boring, seemingly aimed at teenagers. Carson, Leno, and Letterman will be sorely missed.
10
I'm far from a teenager, plenty of civil servants retire before they reach my age, but are we to conclude you are retired? Retired or not, perhaps Colbert's joyful but still waaay faster-than-Fallon sense of humor is not your dish. Colbert was The Big Silly on his Comedy Central show, & I see that continuing here.
2
I don't think this guy is terribly funny and I resent the obvious full court media press that has been put on to promote this show. I feel as though Colbert is being peddled like a McFlurry or a Shamrock Shake. Not interested. Thank you.
9
Thanks for your comment, although it's not clear why you bothered - watching Mr. Colbert isn't compulsory.
8
Why should you resent anything about it? Don't read. Don't watch. Simple.
8
"Resent" is an audit choice of verb. Obviously, lots of people like him, but you don't. but somehow he gets under your skin enough that you read this review and bother to submit a comment on it?
3
We love Stephen Colbert!! He is funny AND intelligent.
While Jimmy Fallon is a nice guy -- I am tired of his fawning over every guest every night and not engaging in any intelligent conversation.
("You are just wonderful. I love everything you do. It's such a great movie.") Also, the gimmicky games need to be used sparingly and toned down. Last week, when Jimmy was interviewing Salman Rushdie, he was clearly out of his element. Jimmy is funny and nice, but he has not shown any ability to conduct an interesting interview, but then again maybe that is not what his show is about.
Given the choice, I will be watching Stephen Colbert, He will have more diverse and interesting guests. He can interview anybody and has done so before. Can't wait too watch the LATE SHOW with Stephen Colbert regularly.
While Jimmy Fallon is a nice guy -- I am tired of his fawning over every guest every night and not engaging in any intelligent conversation.
("You are just wonderful. I love everything you do. It's such a great movie.") Also, the gimmicky games need to be used sparingly and toned down. Last week, when Jimmy was interviewing Salman Rushdie, he was clearly out of his element. Jimmy is funny and nice, but he has not shown any ability to conduct an interesting interview, but then again maybe that is not what his show is about.
Given the choice, I will be watching Stephen Colbert, He will have more diverse and interesting guests. He can interview anybody and has done so before. Can't wait too watch the LATE SHOW with Stephen Colbert regularly.
29
Carson treated his audience as adults. Colbert seems headed in this direction-= we can only hope.
8
During the interviews and monologues, yes, he did. But certainly not always. Remember the Carmac the magnificent skits? And the stupid and repetitive insults to Ed McMahon? So third grade.
The two bits Mr. Poniewozik singled out from the premiere are quintessential Colbert-the-performer: he mines the humor in absurd extremes and self-mockery. For Colbert Report fans they were a "welcome back"; for others, they were a taste of what they can expect. (You'd never know it by much of the media coverage, but the faux-conservative viewpoint was merely one aspect of a much more interesting character by the time the old show wrapped.) I suspect that looking back, these bits will prove to have been a litmus test: if you could embrace them, you could embrace the show.
The bigger concern is the interviews. He may have felt constrained by the old character but its strong viewpoint anchored his interactions with his guests. Without that anchor, the Clooney interview went nowhere and the Bush interview meandered. Colbert needs to have a strategy for guests who don't genuinely interest him or the interviews are going to be a mess.
The bigger concern is the interviews. He may have felt constrained by the old character but its strong viewpoint anchored his interactions with his guests. Without that anchor, the Clooney interview went nowhere and the Bush interview meandered. Colbert needs to have a strategy for guests who don't genuinely interest him or the interviews are going to be a mess.
10
George Clooney had no project to promote – – this led to lack of focus. As for Jeb Bush, he is a total bore in every situation. These two should not have been booked for the first night.
If it's going to be bashing half the population....conservatives..it's gonna have a niche market just like his old show. I was hoping he would be out of character?? Might as well do it all in third person.
This will be a bust..I think??
This will be a bust..I think??
5
Not a very good first show. I hope he has not lost his edge.
9
People...please let's give this man a break. This was his very first show. Of course, it had problems; for example, the edits WERE definitely obvious and clunky, the interview with Clooney was a dud. However, Mr. Colbert has tremendous potential, and I, for one, am looking forward to him finding his way on this new stage. Let's all be patient and support him.
28
I was worried that Colbert as Colbert wouldn't translate very well. Hopefully, he'll find his way. Even as shaky as he was last night, he's nowhere near as bad as the Jimmies. Those two guys, and Fallon in particular, have dumbed down late night TV to unwatchable levels. Perfect for 10-watt bulbs with short attention spans, but not for anyone who's interested in meaningful content.
21
Stephen Colbert is an extremely gifted comedian, and the first night of his "Late Show" was not devoid of comedic vitality. But something about the whole thing reminded me of "The Chevy Chase Show."
3
What a terrible thing to say! I hope and pray that Colbert does not go that way.
I try not to judge books by their covers or TV shows by their premieres. I miss the Comedy Central Colbert, but I have hopes for the CBS version.
5
As a person who cannot afford cable, I had no frame of reference to make a valid judgment of Mr. Colbert's new and old self. I know him only through the comments made by other viewers over time who lauded him greatly. I felt great empathy for him as a performer starting a new, untried program and am willing to give him a grace period. Last night was a real cliffhanger with all the pre-program hype. I felt disappointed. Perhaps it is because I did not know him well from his previous shows. As I said, I will give him a chance. But truthfull, I miss David Letterman greatly.
3
I remember watching the first couple of weeks of the Colbert Report. He was nervous and trying way too hard. We mourned then for the funny reporter that left The Daily Show, thinking he would stay "unfunny". He found his way quickly then, and I think he will do the same with this show. He is too smart and too funny not to...
15
The show was a drag. Almost nothing funny at all. Clooney had nothing to say and I would NOT have Bush on my opening show. (notice no applause). Very disappointed. I'll tune-in in six months if he's still on.
7
I'm shaking my head at all the folks here who are disappointed because the "old Colbert" didn't show up last night. If they had been following even some of his comments along the way leading up to this new show, they'd know that he was done with the old character and was heading into something else. Was last night's show flawed in some ways? Sure! It was the first one - let's cut the guy some slack! I really enjoyed the raucousness and the happiness that came through. For all who turned it off too soon, you missed a crazy-good musical number at the end. I look forward to more of whatever Stephen wants to try. I'm sure he'll find his footing before too long, but even if the show stays as loose as last night's, I won't mind. The show was pretty much pure fun. It felt refreshing.
8
There was too much. The show was too busy and too manic.
But there were very promising moments:
I liked the Trump buildings on their sides, with the doorman, as Mexican wall.
I liked the music director, Jon Baptiste.
I liked having his brother on, to bring up brotherly disagreements.
I liked the less-than-one-percent chance I'd vote for you.
I liked the national anthem starter piece.
I thought Clooney piece flat, had to listen to PBS this morning to learn that it was an anti-celebrity-hugfest piece. We Are Not Friends. That one could have been brilliant but it was not.
So I still have hope. And feel he will pull it off.
But there were very promising moments:
I liked the Trump buildings on their sides, with the doorman, as Mexican wall.
I liked the music director, Jon Baptiste.
I liked having his brother on, to bring up brotherly disagreements.
I liked the less-than-one-percent chance I'd vote for you.
I liked the national anthem starter piece.
I thought Clooney piece flat, had to listen to PBS this morning to learn that it was an anti-celebrity-hugfest piece. We Are Not Friends. That one could have been brilliant but it was not.
So I still have hope. And feel he will pull it off.
10
give him a break! it was opening night and he must have been a little nervous.. trying to fill into the small shoes of that useless Dave fellow !
5
I appreciate your comment. I couldn't stand Letterman, either. I thought I was completely alone.
I just wish they would show a little more cleavage -- which would induce CBS's 60-year-old viewers to stay awake through the whole show. Also, some cleavage of Elfin Princess Arwen would be particularly fascinating. Because she's still alive, right? Is Ann B. Davis still alive?
Hey, Jeff, I'm 68 and more awake than you are, although I realize that you are one of the most intelligent, coolest guys on the planet. Yeah, I'm too old to get Colbert, like I was too old to be a burner. Sorry, kid, we're still here. not going anywhere, so deal with it.
I thought Colbert's first night was a good warm-up. It didn't hit on all cylinders, but I'll be continuing to watch because I think he's smartly funny and the first show was good enough that I'm not going to bail on him now.
And for all the criticisms of the Oreo bit: the analogy is that Trump is to comedy as Oreo is to junk food. You can't at just one! It might have been unabashed product placement, but for me it definitely worked as a comedic sketch!
And for all the criticisms of the Oreo bit: the analogy is that Trump is to comedy as Oreo is to junk food. You can't at just one! It might have been unabashed product placement, but for me it definitely worked as a comedic sketch!
9
Loved having Stephen on my tv again. The oreo cookie bit was the best - managing to use the endless joke that is Trump to skewer the media's fixation with him. Singalongs also pure Stephen, although they evoke Garrison Keillor more than Dave. The elephant in the room is the set which I thought was awful. Perhaps it looks nice live but on my tv it glows like Cerenkov radiation during a nuclear meltdown and is very distracting. Also not a fan of the "tiny town" intro using a video technique which if you've never seen before looks cool but loses it's novelty value very quickly. Maybe if they insert humorous updates to it, the way The Simpsons opener works, it could be more interesting.
5
The show was indeed overstuffed, and too much of it fell flat for me. Bush was boring, so was Clooney, not exactly two of the funniest or entertaining guys. The band was okay, but Letterman's band was way better.
So the Time's new TV critic is binge-watching "Lost" you say? That tells me all I need to know about Poniewozik's tastes, thanks but no thanks.
So the Time's new TV critic is binge-watching "Lost" you say? That tells me all I need to know about Poniewozik's tastes, thanks but no thanks.
1
Talented man and a cracking band!
It was a good start.
Has this write ever wtached late night tv?
For those of you complaining?
Turn off the telly and go back to your parent's basement and play video games!
It was a good start.
Has this write ever wtached late night tv?
For those of you complaining?
Turn off the telly and go back to your parent's basement and play video games!
3
I watched it. It was ok I guess but not something I will likely bother with.
Is Dick Cavett 2.0 available?
Is Dick Cavett 2.0 available?
5
Or Tom Snyder? How about David Suskind? I'm not kidding – – I loved them all. I even liked Mike Douglas and Merv Griffin on occasion.
But – – Stephen Colbert is super-smart, and he was very funny on the old show. I'm going to give him time.
But – – Stephen Colbert is super-smart, and he was very funny on the old show. I'm going to give him time.
1
For many of us he's never been funny, often not even clever, so at least he remains consistent.
4
Why because he exposed conservative as the bumbling fools they are?
1
I know I'm going to be scorned by many but too few parts of his first show made me smile, laugh or think hard about something. I'll first check who is on Charlie Rose before I go to CBS for his overly hyped show. Promise only what you can deliver then deliver more than you promised. just like John Oliver does. Oliver is the best funny guy with meaningful punch that is on the tube right now.
8
I didn't see the show but heard callers-in commenting this morning on NPR -- and judging from that and what I know of late night, Colbert, et. al, I'd say this is a fair and generous assessment (to wit & thankfully no puff piece).
My with huge expectations were a tad disappointed. Colbert tried too hard and the show lost its effortless, genius charm.
First off, the Late Night Show format seemed dated, no matter how hard Colbert tried to blow new life in it. The old Colbert Report was more quirky and original.
Second, it was obvious that Colbert sold out to the establishment, prostituting his talent for the corporate sponsors. I literally cringed at his product placement of hummus and Oreo. It was so much below his dignity and so obvious. As I watched, I was ashamed for him.
The biggest product placement/highest disappointment was having Jeb Bush on his first show - although it had been the summer of Trump and Sanders - and Biden today. The establishment candidates! Despite all the nice softballs Colbert threw at Bush, Jeb managed to make a fol of himself and squandered the opportunity, showing how mediocre, fake, stupid and pompous he is. Eg: The only thing he disliked about his brother was that he didn't veto more bills, and he told us that he, Jeb, is considered the Vito Corleone in Florida. Jeb tried to look tough, like Perry tried to look smart with the sunglasses. Colbert deliciously reminded Jeb that Corleone was the bad guy, nothing to brag about, if people call you that.
Clooney wasn't funny, despite elaborate sketch. The bit with Oreo was plainly unpatriotic. Trump complained that Oreo moved plant to Mexico. Colbert rewarded Oreo with an effusive product placement.
First off, the Late Night Show format seemed dated, no matter how hard Colbert tried to blow new life in it. The old Colbert Report was more quirky and original.
Second, it was obvious that Colbert sold out to the establishment, prostituting his talent for the corporate sponsors. I literally cringed at his product placement of hummus and Oreo. It was so much below his dignity and so obvious. As I watched, I was ashamed for him.
The biggest product placement/highest disappointment was having Jeb Bush on his first show - although it had been the summer of Trump and Sanders - and Biden today. The establishment candidates! Despite all the nice softballs Colbert threw at Bush, Jeb managed to make a fol of himself and squandered the opportunity, showing how mediocre, fake, stupid and pompous he is. Eg: The only thing he disliked about his brother was that he didn't veto more bills, and he told us that he, Jeb, is considered the Vito Corleone in Florida. Jeb tried to look tough, like Perry tried to look smart with the sunglasses. Colbert deliciously reminded Jeb that Corleone was the bad guy, nothing to brag about, if people call you that.
Clooney wasn't funny, despite elaborate sketch. The bit with Oreo was plainly unpatriotic. Trump complained that Oreo moved plant to Mexico. Colbert rewarded Oreo with an effusive product placement.
16
Unpatriotic? In what universe? So Trump sending ALL of his own manufacturing overseas but has the temerity to criticize Oreo is "patriotic"?
1
The whole Oreo bit was a brilliant takedown of the media's fascination with and fawning over Trump. Did you not see that?
Colbert is incredibly talented, smart, and funny. But that won't save this show if he can't figure out how give good interview. He needs to settle down and let the guests talk more. I never cared for his interviews on "The Colbert Report," either. His mind is so fast and mercurial, he's always jumping in with interruptions. Maybe on occasion he could phrase his questions in a plainer way. There was one brief moment with Jeb where he got it, but it was after a protracted, painful session of interruptions that were awkward for Bush, and awkward for the viewers. Also, there was a good segment online (edited from the broadcast) where the host and guest seemed more relaxed. So maybe the editors just need to get in the right groove.
12
To be fair to our host, these two guests were very poorly chosen. George Clooney had no project to focus on, and Jeb Bush is boring in every context.
I do agree, however, that the interview portion of the previous show was the weakest part. I loved the show, but I often skipped that. I found myself frequently frustrated that the interview we had so little opportunity to fully express a point. Stephen needs to channel some of John Stewart's interviewing techniques.
I do agree, however, that the interview portion of the previous show was the weakest part. I loved the show, but I often skipped that. I found myself frequently frustrated that the interview we had so little opportunity to fully express a point. Stephen needs to channel some of John Stewart's interviewing techniques.
I actually took a nap to be awake for the show. Glad I did-- he is spectacular. Not all parts worked as well as the Oreo segment. But I laughed and was hopeful. I think I had a good time because he did. What a smart, funny moral man.
9
I cringed throughout the Oreo segment. The last thing I want to see late at night is a comedian stuffing his mouth with anything, especially junk food.
1
Talking head celebs and a 'house band'?
Truly sad what Colbert let himself get into... Another boring talk show with 'cutesy' features... Why bother?
Truly sad what Colbert let himself get into... Another boring talk show with 'cutesy' features... Why bother?
9
For Colbert, reasons to bother: 1) money; 2) prestige.
1
What exactly were you expecting? He's the host of the Late show, the entire format of the show doesn't change. The Late Show IS a talk show and a new host doesn't transform it into a MasterChef or Narcos or GameofThrones.
1
Except for a brief flash of the old genius in cornering Jeb! when he was trying to reel off his talking points for a future 30 second campaign spot -- "Jeb! tells it like it is on Colbert" -- disappointing.
Like Peter S, I "enjoyed" the 8 minute block of commercials. It let me watch two games in the tennis match.
Like Peter S, I "enjoyed" the 8 minute block of commercials. It let me watch two games in the tennis match.
5
To sum it up, Eh!
7
The only way to compare Stephen with Dave will be to compare them with Dave's shows when he started. It took a lot of evolution of Dave to finish where he did. I am sure that with all the talents that Stephen has he will do fine.
51
But Dave's earliest shows, while not polished, were funny and cutting edge. If anything, last night's show was the opposite. Polish befitting a huge budget, little humor, and unoriginal.
1
OK, I can accept that. I'll check in again six months from now to see if the show improves. Opening day was a dud.
Long-time fan of the show. Even bought a brand new container of Colbert ice cream for the occasion. Didn't laugh a single time. Cringed more than once at the awkwardness. What happened to all the brilliant writers?
29
I liked the opening montage and that's about all. I thought it was extremely unfunny. The band is good.
14
I was disappointed. It lacked the informality of Letterman and the edge of the "Colbert" character. He needs to both relax and to be sharper. There's a way to do a bit and not make it feel like it's a completely artificial performance - kinda winking at the audience and saying, "Isn't this a fun bit that I'm doing?" Hope he gets better, cuz I really loved "The Colbert Report". We need someone to take the air out of the blowhards, and no show did that better than TCR.
20
It was the first show after a 9 month hiatus. Nobody is good the "first" time. Neither was Letterman. I am sure that as experienced and smart as Colbert is he doesn't really need your advice about the "way to do a bit"
1
I too was disappointed and I believe entertainment would have been better served by showing the reruns of the Medium, which wasn't excellent, but was far and above the 20 minutes I saw of the "Late Show" last night. Colberts screaming and ranting was what I would have expected from watching some of "The Colbert Report." I would suspect Johnny Carson turned over in his grave and said, OMG. Letterman was not Johnny Carson, but he was a showman, Colbert is not. Showoff maybe.
2
In ditching his conservative Colbert persona, Stephen Colbert gave up a brilliant mechanism for delivering pointed political satire. He was the court jester, who, as the fool, was allowed to get away with saying truths and asking questions that ordinary people couldn't get away with. He was allowed to be impatient with his guests, or pretend to be ignorant about what they were doing. Rather than constraining him, the character liberated him from having to make nice to his guests.
In the new show, the sharpest satire was directed at easy targets like Donald Trump, who, presumably, Colbert does not actually want on his show. When it came to Jeb Bush, it may be that the most pointed questions were left out, but Colbert let Bush get away with the most outrageous claims such as the fact that Obama is at fault for being polarizing, or that he cares about those in need, and the cuts he wants in spending will not hurt people in need. How well did he help the poor in Florida? How about the uninsured?
Of course, if he wants to get conservative politicians onto his show, he will not be able to insult them to their faces. But you can't really get at the truth if you aren't willing to make enemies or be unpopular. And there are so few people willing to do that. Paul Krugman is one. The old Colbert was another, but we have lost him. He suggested that it was too taxing for him, but it was such a catharsis for us. What a loss.
In the new show, the sharpest satire was directed at easy targets like Donald Trump, who, presumably, Colbert does not actually want on his show. When it came to Jeb Bush, it may be that the most pointed questions were left out, but Colbert let Bush get away with the most outrageous claims such as the fact that Obama is at fault for being polarizing, or that he cares about those in need, and the cuts he wants in spending will not hurt people in need. How well did he help the poor in Florida? How about the uninsured?
Of course, if he wants to get conservative politicians onto his show, he will not be able to insult them to their faces. But you can't really get at the truth if you aren't willing to make enemies or be unpopular. And there are so few people willing to do that. Paul Krugman is one. The old Colbert was another, but we have lost him. He suggested that it was too taxing for him, but it was such a catharsis for us. What a loss.
46
More interviews where politicians get to spew their nonsense with no confrontation? Doesn't sound patriotic to me, the Star Spangled Banner notwithstanding.
It sucked more because Jon Stewart of Daily Show retired in the same year. The thing is, Late Show reaches a larger, more diverse audience, whereas the Daily Show and Colbert Report were traditionally democrat. I think he's extremely intelligent and well versed, and doesn't need to hide behind a gimmick or comedy to get his views across. The problem is, he's likely not allowed to engage in such a way on CBS. This isn't HBO or Comedy Central. I think, instead, he'll interview GOP's with very little chances of winning and he'll engage more with candidates he likes, such as Bernie Sanders.
I was disappointed in the show and am not likely to watch very often. I much prefer the old Colbert Report. This show seemed like all the other late night shows, with not enough of an edge. Too mainstream for me. Not worth staying up that late. Too bad...
15
After ONE night? The Colbert Report wasn't the Colbert Report on the first night
1
I loved the show. It was show-biz in the 50's and 60's sense, larger than life, a rollercoaster of ride that was unpredictable and funny with a little bit of acerbic wit thrown in. Very entertaining.
39
I especially enjoyed the 8 minute block of commercials between George Clooney and Jeb Bush. Way to grab the internet generation CBS!
78
That was truly unbearable, and one of the main reasons people no longer watch TV as it is broadcast. Hard to believe in an age when we have so many viewing options, the traditional networks keep shooting themselves in the foot this way.
3
I DVR'd it and watched it Wednesday afternoon. Best way to enjoy Stephen and miss the commercials. Not sure what generation this makes me.
1
I noticed that extended break too. I stuck it out but was tempted to change the channel or just go to bed.
1
Not being able to be faux-polite to Jeb! as a fellow clueless right-wing moron with a grift - and in the course of it taking him apart mercilessly -- but Stephen actually treating him with gentlemanly respect was an uncomfortable experience for me. Guess I'll have to get used to it. Jeb! got to spout a mountain of absurdist GOP nonsense without having it shoved back down his throat as it should have been, in the spirit of "Stephen Colbert" taking down the other brother in 2005 at the correspondents dinner. Still a pretty good show.
18
This is not the WH Correspondence dinner nor is it supposed to be
Jeb? really got off easy last night. The old Colbert would have taken Jeb? apart, as would have Letterman. I don't think it made much of a difference, though. Jeb? is still an empty suit.
1
The big mistake was booking Jeb for the first night in the first place. That was bound to be a disaster no matter what.
Steven Colbert without his persona is like Superman without his cape, and numbed by Kriptonite. Oh, the producers tried. They had the vast audience primed to chant, "Steven, Steven, Steven" but that was for the Colbert* who challenged the absurdities of our nation represented by the conservative movement with precision punctuated by wit.
I did not see the interview with Jeb Bush, but will make some assumptions. Colbert* would have first asked how he is one of the few left who feels that the war in Iraq was a "pretty good deal" with feigning admiration for his courage in understanding all the benefits. He may have also congratulated him for being in favor of a Balanced Budget amendment, pointing out that we would then be like those admirable countries such as Spain that are demonstrating their responsibility by having half their young people unemployed.
Colbet* was amazing because of his wit, intellect and mostly dedication to a more rational world. The person hosting "The Late Show" could not possibly be him, as the market it is seeking would not accept such a person. His humor, unlike his now lost persona, was something rare and valuable.
I will sorely miss that Steven Colbert*
AlRodbell.com
I did not see the interview with Jeb Bush, but will make some assumptions. Colbert* would have first asked how he is one of the few left who feels that the war in Iraq was a "pretty good deal" with feigning admiration for his courage in understanding all the benefits. He may have also congratulated him for being in favor of a Balanced Budget amendment, pointing out that we would then be like those admirable countries such as Spain that are demonstrating their responsibility by having half their young people unemployed.
Colbet* was amazing because of his wit, intellect and mostly dedication to a more rational world. The person hosting "The Late Show" could not possibly be him, as the market it is seeking would not accept such a person. His humor, unlike his now lost persona, was something rare and valuable.
I will sorely miss that Steven Colbert*
AlRodbell.com
8
Your assumptions are totally off the mark. Maybe watch him tonight. You will see something that is better for our times, and still on the mark.
8
Jane – –
You bluntly state that someone else's opinion is "wrong"? Matters of personal taste cannot be right or wrong. How does such a comment advance a meaningful dialogue?
You bluntly state that someone else's opinion is "wrong"? Matters of personal taste cannot be right or wrong. How does such a comment advance a meaningful dialogue?
I found the show boring and lacking in content. I shut it off after 30 minutes. Perhaps it did not reflect the social engagement I was looking for
10
I read Poniewozik for years when he was at Time, and he has long been the best TV critic around. Congratulations to the Times for finally hiring him. And good luck, Jim.
12
The interview with Bush was indeed a smart piece, showing how nimble Stephen Colbert can be even while being respectful. After all, Jeb only criticized his brother's lack of control over federal spending, which in itself doesn't sound like much but together with his other previous comments about W's Iraq adventure --he was for it before he as against it--demonstrates the Jeb is of a piece with W., --not a good place for him to be as a "new Bush". So all in all Jeb with Stephen's help did himself no favors. That said, the rest of this show is not as tightly designed as the former one, nor as funny, or so wonderfully outrageous as that one and in general was a disappointment. I doubt I'll be willing to stay up to see it.
6
so very glad to have him back! it felt fresh and audacious, not that I would expect anything less.
the review captures the spirit of the program - joy. Are we so unaccustomed to seeing it? we are everyday people.
the review captures the spirit of the program - joy. Are we so unaccustomed to seeing it? we are everyday people.
10
"The Colbert Report" was wonderful with intelligent humor. Last night lacked the intelligent part of Mr. Colbert's humor and it also lacked the intelligent part of his interview capabilities. When Bush said that he'd differ from his brother by promoting smaller government, he criticized the lack of vetoes in his brother's second term, ignoring the spending on Part D and the unpaid wars from the first term which is where the real spending problems began. I believe that the Colbert of "The Colbert Report" would have not accepted that false answer the way that "The Late Show" Colbert rolled over and ate the pablum. If we lose intelligence from Colbert in order to serve the mainstream, we've seen Mr. Colbert sell out who he always has been and we've seen the end of Mr. Colbert as a truly unique and talented entertainer.
54
'...we've seen Mr. Colbert sell out who he always has been and we've seen the end of Mr. Colbert as a truly unique and talented entertainer." YES INDEED.
I had been waiting impatiently for Mr. Colbert's arrival on CBS: the old Steven Colbert, with the sharp wit and intelligence that were were his trademarks, notwithstanding the need for some new mainstream appeal. I was grossly disappointed.
I had been waiting impatiently for Mr. Colbert's arrival on CBS: the old Steven Colbert, with the sharp wit and intelligence that were were his trademarks, notwithstanding the need for some new mainstream appeal. I was grossly disappointed.
You missed the theme: mutual cooperation to make the country, and life itself, better. Colbert, as usual, was one step ahead. By pairing New York and Fort Worth in the opening song, Clooney and Jeb, Jeb and himself (remember the WH correspondent's dinner?), his brother and himself, Fallon and himself, and a mixture of black and white musicians, singers, and viewers, throughout the entire show, all imbued with a sense of the joy of life, Stephen put on a show emblematic of his own philosophy and love of life. Well done.
161
I completely agree. I love that he was showing cooperation and collaboration. t actually, truly, no kidding around, made me feel hopeful for society for the first time in a long while.
18
Mutual cooperation to make the country better. Where have we heard that before? Does Colbert think he can succeed where Obama failed?
We are at a point where the ideas diverge so much there is no room for compromise. We can only thrust and parry on so many issues, like abortion, or global warming, or universal healthcare, or global warming, for so long before the consequences of inaction come home to roost. There was lots of civility around the discussion of slavery prior to the civil war. Hadn't Lincoln engaged in thoughtful and polite debates with Stephen Douglas? What came of those debates? If the South had agreed to limit slavery to just those states where it already existed in the "spirit of compromise", how long would it have taken before slavery was abolished voluntarily?
Compromises are great until they stop being great. Sometimes the center can't hold.
We are at a point where the ideas diverge so much there is no room for compromise. We can only thrust and parry on so many issues, like abortion, or global warming, or universal healthcare, or global warming, for so long before the consequences of inaction come home to roost. There was lots of civility around the discussion of slavery prior to the civil war. Hadn't Lincoln engaged in thoughtful and polite debates with Stephen Douglas? What came of those debates? If the South had agreed to limit slavery to just those states where it already existed in the "spirit of compromise", how long would it have taken before slavery was abolished voluntarily?
Compromises are great until they stop being great. Sometimes the center can't hold.
4
It wasn't the President that failed. It was the Republican Congress who OPENLY said from day one they would be against EVERYTHING the President was for regardless of the consequences for the country. How long would it have taken to be abolished voluntarily? You can't count that high
2
IT WAS ONLY THE FIRST SHOW . . .
...but as host of CBS' THE LATE SHOW, I found that the hour and nine minutes seemed to busy. The two talk guests, George Clooney and Gov. Jeb! were quite short and offered little.
The comments about Trump were really a piece from the COLBER[t] REPORT ... but would have been placed and done better on his Comedy Central show venue.
He said something like: 'on the old program I played a right wing egomaniac and now I am just an egomaniac. There was some truth in that comment. If last night's program is prescient, it is suggestive of Mr. Colbert trying to do far to much ... and ending up with brief segments of less use or humor.
Bring back Dave, Paul and the band! (Wishful and unrealistic thoughts.)
But Colbert just produced one show and he has a while to tighten it up and focus on his new one hour gig. His REPOR[t] was a marvel. We shall see ... and I wish this very talented and I wish this knowledgeable genius much success in this what must be difficult transition.
This reminds me (somewhat) of the failure of Steve Allen and Dick Cavett as
comedians and intellectuals are a difficult thing to manage together.
But, again, last night was only the first show and he may develop a format which works better. I know that my opinions are in the minority when I read other reviews.
Just being honest ... my 2cents.
...but as host of CBS' THE LATE SHOW, I found that the hour and nine minutes seemed to busy. The two talk guests, George Clooney and Gov. Jeb! were quite short and offered little.
The comments about Trump were really a piece from the COLBER[t] REPORT ... but would have been placed and done better on his Comedy Central show venue.
He said something like: 'on the old program I played a right wing egomaniac and now I am just an egomaniac. There was some truth in that comment. If last night's program is prescient, it is suggestive of Mr. Colbert trying to do far to much ... and ending up with brief segments of less use or humor.
Bring back Dave, Paul and the band! (Wishful and unrealistic thoughts.)
But Colbert just produced one show and he has a while to tighten it up and focus on his new one hour gig. His REPOR[t] was a marvel. We shall see ... and I wish this very talented and I wish this knowledgeable genius much success in this what must be difficult transition.
This reminds me (somewhat) of the failure of Steve Allen and Dick Cavett as
comedians and intellectuals are a difficult thing to manage together.
But, again, last night was only the first show and he may develop a format which works better. I know that my opinions are in the minority when I read other reviews.
Just being honest ... my 2cents.
20
I din't think Dick Cavett was a failure.!!! I watched his show regularly and loved it! Even as they kept tweaking it and him. Best television ever aired in my opinion. Colbert should be himself and true to his strengths. He can be brilliant.
3
I liked the Colbert parts of the show, but I have to say I was a little bummed, but not surprised to see it was the generic late night format all these shows seem to share. I would really liked to have seen him do away with the band and all that out of date stuff, and make something geared more to what made him a success. Still, I never watch late night shows, but I might occasionally pop in to see this one.
23
It was a very, very shaky start. Not an ounce of spontaneity or quick wit. He was trying too hard, too much forced energy, contrived set-ups, no content at all in either interview. Surely, one hopes, it will get better as he relaxes, Is he really so stiff in real life? Is there a "real" Colbert anywhere inside that uptight
business suited persona? Overmuch hype, no humanity, precious little genuine humour. Perhaps, if we're patient we may get more honest, simple, direct funny shows. Who does he think he is? Who does he think the audience is? Neither was clear from last night's mish mash.
business suited persona? Overmuch hype, no humanity, precious little genuine humour. Perhaps, if we're patient we may get more honest, simple, direct funny shows. Who does he think he is? Who does he think the audience is? Neither was clear from last night's mish mash.
80
wow. And you think your analysis is not a mish mash? It was his FIRST night in a new format. COlbert's humanity ALWAYS shines through
3
I agree Colbert was a bit uptight and was trying way too hard during his inaugural show. But we have seen awkward first nights before, with John Oliver and Larry Wilmore as recent examples. And earlier, Chevy Chase - Oops! bad example. I expect Colbert will calm down and hit his stride before long. At least I hope so. But CBS had better let him take off the gloves or this show will go nowhere.
5
This was just a normal awkward start. I wish the obituary writers would put down their pens, take a deep breath, and give this deeply talented man time to find himself in a new format.
1
My 89 year old Mother, a life long David Letterman fan and night owl, has pronounced that Stephen Colbert is very funny ...she will keep her channel set to CBS. I am hoping, at middle age to stay awake past midnight ( I used to miss the odd last 6 min of Colbert) I found the opener deliciously hilarious.
43
I enjoyed it quite a bit. The interview with Clooney was awkward in a way that Stephen is famous for...the whole thing is a joke, after all. But I thought he really nailed Bush, didn't let him get away with easy drivel and he actually trapped him into admitting to his selfish agenda with some quite acrobatic verbal manipulation reminiscent of the Report. And Stephen said, I believe, "There is less than zero percent chance that I would vote for you." Hurray for truthiness!
70
Welcome James Poniewozik to the NY Times. Good all around review. Glad the NYT finally hired a TV reviewer who actually likes TV.
24
My theory is that he was being very easy on Stephen's awkward beginning in the hopes that others might be easy on the reviewer's own awkward beginning!
1
Kudos to CBS for letting viewers stream the first show free today. I do not stay up to watch late shows and am not interested in any but the new Stephen Colbert Late Show. It was a great way to start my day this morning and Mr. Colbert knocked it out of the park with his first two guests - Liberal George Clooney and Conservative Jeb-no-last-name-Bush. Mr. Colbert did not disappoint and I'm looking forward to watching his show every morning - including all commercials as long as they aren't stacked too deep. Mr. Colbert ended the show with the uplifting music of "We've Got To Live Together" and that's a message we need to hear every day in America. Thanks to CBS and Stephen Colbert.
36
Colbert needs to find better footing for his new show. In all I found it tedious. Jeb Bush was as boring as can be. All in all I miss the "old colbert".
74
Yes! If he doesn't have it by, say, the 3rd show, then cancel him!!
2
Not bad for a first effort, until you realize this first show was 9 months in the making. Definitely needs tightening up. The grandness of the stage (it really does seem cavernous on TV) and the attempt to bring back the "bigness" of late night television doesn't really jibe with serious, thoughtful guest interviews. It was a little distracting hearing the faint acoustics of their voices in the background as Colbert attempted to switch gears and ask Clooney how he first got involved in the Darfur genocide. It's almost like Colbert isn't sure who he wants to be or what space he wants the show to occupy. The setting itself is befitting more to guests like Bradley Cooper instead of guests like Doris Kearns Goodwin. That's a shame.
10
PAC may be too young to either remember or be familiar with the likes of Jack Paar, Dick Cavett or Merv Griffin (the latter as a talk- show host); but the "serious thoughtful guest interviews" were part and parcel of their late-night shows, which the "bigness" had been rendered practically obsolete in post-Carson era.
2
Is it just possible that Colbert has managed to pull off a late-night show that can be "Millenial-centric" without acting like it is?
7
I wasn't impressed but I'm more than willing to give him time to figure this out. I agree it seemed like a show built for live watching as opposed to creating viral bits. That said, a couple points for me:
The audience needs to stop the infantile 'Stephen' chant, sooner than later. That alone would make me stop watching if it gains speed. Give the guy a break, he's trying something new here.
Don't put more up on the web. I'm taking the time to watch you now. Give me the good stuff now. Quit expecting me to commit more time. You're not a needy teenage girl. That's Fallon's beat.
Less skits, more repartee with guests. In every interview I've ever seen or read, Colbert appears to have a ready and sharp wit. Scripted skits completely take that strength out of the equation.
Bush was a mistake for a first show guest. Nothing there to see or remember. A clean break with the political nature of The Report would have served Colbert better. Clooney was fun but again, the scripted part took all the potential out of that segment.
I'll watch again.
The audience needs to stop the infantile 'Stephen' chant, sooner than later. That alone would make me stop watching if it gains speed. Give the guy a break, he's trying something new here.
Don't put more up on the web. I'm taking the time to watch you now. Give me the good stuff now. Quit expecting me to commit more time. You're not a needy teenage girl. That's Fallon's beat.
Less skits, more repartee with guests. In every interview I've ever seen or read, Colbert appears to have a ready and sharp wit. Scripted skits completely take that strength out of the equation.
Bush was a mistake for a first show guest. Nothing there to see or remember. A clean break with the political nature of The Report would have served Colbert better. Clooney was fun but again, the scripted part took all the potential out of that segment.
I'll watch again.
26
Sure because Dave was great the first time out too. Not
1
Absolutely agree about that annoying and time-wasting chant. Also want lots more of Stephen himself, not the pseudo Bill Riley character, brilliant though that was for 10 years. Please move on, Stephen.
And not all your viewers are Millennials--by a long shot! and furthermore, we have too much going on in our lives to bother with catching snippets repeated in cyberspace. The show's the thing, not warmed over bits on a smart phone.
And not all your viewers are Millennials--by a long shot! and furthermore, we have too much going on in our lives to bother with catching snippets repeated in cyberspace. The show's the thing, not warmed over bits on a smart phone.
1
Love Stephen Colbert. The show was excellent. It'll take a minute to get used to him and the lack of Letterman.
12
All in all, Colbert was better than his guests --- which was a relief I thought. I could still see the things in Colbert that I liked, and his willingness to cut through the political nonsense, gave me a sense of relief that we still have Colbert (and even Stewart). Clooney was bland; Jeb Bush seemed not to know what to do next. I'd like to see how Colbert does with Trump. Certainly Trump is ready made for this type of show.
14
It would be very hard indeed not to be better than those dreadful guests!
I love Stephen Colbert and I will give him time.
I love Stephen Colbert and I will give him time.
Awesome review, Mr. Poniewozik. Given the show's expansiveness, I had a hard time sorting it all out--do I really want that right before bed? However, you really covered all the bases and articulated what I felt about the show. It will be interesting to see how the show--and your column--evolves.
23
Mr. Poniewozik's review had measures of truth and truthiness that made it an interesting and worthwhile read. (Unfortunately, I'm never going to be able to learn how to spell his last name without looking at it.)
Here's what I think is true: Stephen Colbert is a really smart man, and as the show matures it's going to evolve into greatness. At least, that's what I'm hoping.
Here's what I think is true: Stephen Colbert is a really smart man, and as the show matures it's going to evolve into greatness. At least, that's what I'm hoping.
107
Anyone who watched the very first episode of The Colbert Report back in '05 knows that even a show the turns out to be an exquisite gem and "must watch (or in my case dvr) tv" takes a bit of time to grow into its own skin. Personally, I thought the first attempt off the high dive went just fine.
44
I was very disappointed. His interview of Clooney was dreadful and that of Bush was only OK. He was taken aback with Bush's response to his question on differences between him and W; he was not prepared. He needs to follow the old formula of a stand up routine with a range of topics, followed by a small skit, and finish with 1-2 good interviews. But most important, he needs to get out of character and be himself - Colbert with a hard "t".
32
I don't really know who Colbert is. His character on Comedy Central is the only one I ever saw. I think there are many people who know him the same way I do. I think it will take some time to undo his past persona and let us know who he really is.
4
Interesting. I thought his refusal to let Jeb(!) wiggle out of a substantive answer on how he and his brother differ on policy was the strongest moment of the show and hopefully foreshadows how his interviews will go moving forward.
I also think that he's made it clear that he's not going to follow "the old formula." You may be stuck watching reruns, my friend.
I also think that he's made it clear that he's not going to follow "the old formula." You may be stuck watching reruns, my friend.
11
Jeb said that he thought that W had spent too much money. The follow up questions should have been " What would you have vetoed? What projects should have been dropped?" Or how about, "Should we have an added tax to pay for the war?" When Jeb said that he liked Obama but not his policies, Colbert should have asked "Are there any policies of Obama that you liked?" or "Which policies don't you like and why." As far as past formulas, maybe Carson and Letterman had it wrong, but a formula where the host is the unabashed, self-proclaimed star, just is not going to work for me and I bet not for many others. No reruns for me, just less T.V.
2