Critics slam Byron Allen’s ‘Comics Unleashed’ as CBS replaces Stephen Colbert

CBS recently replaced Stephen Colbert’s long-running ‘The Late Show’ with Byron Allen’s ‘Comics Unleashed,’ a syndicated half-hour comedy program for which Allen reportedly pays the network $15 million annually. The debut on the 11:30 p.m. slot received extremely harsh criticism from The Guardian’s Andrew Lawrence. He described the show as overrun with forced applause and lacking any genuine writing or point of view, creating a bland and uninspired viewing experience. Unlike traditional late-night programs featuring monologues, celebrity interviews, or topical humor, ‘Comics Unleashed’ focuses solely on pre-packaged stand-up material delivered by guest comedians, with little attention to current events. The review criticized the show’s set design, stock video usage, and artificial atmosphere, likening it to a sterile, showroom-style production. Allen retains most of the advertising revenue under his CBS agreement, which may explain the emphasis on cost-effective programming over creative content. Lawrence suggests viewers seeking lively and relevant late-night entertainment would be better served by competitors like Jimmy Kimmel or John Oliver. Overall, the premiere of ‘Comics Unleashed’ highlights a significant departure from the traditional late-night format and has been met with strong negative reception.