Lorne Michaels Comments on Late-Night Landscape
Lorne Michaels, the influential creator and executive producer of “Saturday Night Live,” has shared his thoughts on the recent cancellation of “The Slow Show with Stephen Colbert.” He seems fairly confident that NBC’s Jimmy Fallon and Seth Myers are secure in their positions, despite the unexpected news from CBS.
During an interview with Matt Veroni from Puck News, Michaels admitted to being “just surprised” by CBS’s decision announced last month. This move has drawn criticism from liberal commentators, who argue that CBS capitulated to pressures from former President Donald Trump. However, CBS maintains that the choice was driven purely by financial considerations.
Michaels, at the age of 80, acknowledged how the media landscape has shifted significantly, with more viewers opting to watch content online instead of traditional television.
When asked about the possibility of political motivations behind CBS’s decision, Michaels said, “I don’t think any of us know that.”
Veroni then turned to the futures of Fallon and Myers at NBC, pointing out that both of their contracts run until 2028. Michaels is also the executive producer of “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” and “Late Night with Seth Myers.”
In response to a question about whether he was assured of their safety with Comcast, Michaels replied affirmatively. He seemed to express respect for Comcast CEO Brian Roberts but added that broadcast licenses create uncertainty in the industry, though he doesn’t foresee immediate impacts.
Beloni pressed further, asking, “Even with this president?” Michaels confirmed, noting the unique challenges posed by Trump and his media prowess. “Whatever the crime Trump committed, he’s doing it in the daytime,” Michaels remarked, emphasizing Trump’s powerful connection with his audience—a fact he believes is often underestimated.
Michaels also dismissed the idea that political comedy has become overly strained following the settlements involving Paramount and Disney regarding Trump’s lawsuit against CBS News and ABC News.
As for “SNL,” he hinted that there will be some changes in the cast for the show’s upcoming 51st season, although James Austin Johnson will continue his well-known impersonation of Trump.
The backlash following Colbert’s cancellation has been significant among his liberal fan base, including various Democrats who argued that Paramount may have violated anti-bribery laws.
These critics are linking the decision to a settlement made just days before the FCC approved an $8 billion merger with SkyDance Media. However, reports indicate that Colbert’s show had been losing over $40 million annually, with a hefty budget that contrasted sharply with other programming on the network, which still remained profitable.
