Lorne Michaels’ Confidence in Fallon and Myers Amid Colbert’s Cancellation
Lorne Michaels, the creative force behind “Saturday Night Live,” shared his belief that NBC late-night hosts Jimmy Fallon and Seth Myers remain secure in their roles following the surprising cancellation of CBS’s “Late Show with Stephen Colbert.” In a recent conversation, Michaels, alongside Matt Veroni of Puck News, admitted he was “just surprised” by CBS’s announcement last month, with critics alleging that the network had bowed to pressure related to President Trump. CBS, however, claimed their decision was based purely on financial considerations.
The veteran in late-night television, at 80 years old, acknowledged the evolving industry landscape where viewers tend to gravitate toward online content rather than traditional television.
When asked about a potential political angle behind CBS’s choice to cancel Colbert, Michaels maintained, “I don’t think any of us know that.”
New Paramount Chief Agrees on Late Night’s Issues
Veroni shifted the discussion to the futures of Fallon and Myers, highlighting that both have contracts through 2028. Michaels, who also serves as an executive producer for both “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” and “Late Night with Seth Myers,” was queried about whether Comcast was committed to the safety of their shows. He confidently replied, “Yes,” expressing respect for Comcast CEO Brian Roberts, while adding the standard caution that everyone is subject to broadcasting licenses.
Veroni probed further, asking, “Even with this president?” to which Michaels affirmed, “Even with this president.” He reflected on Trump’s media presence, noting that the former president knows how to captivate an audience, a skill that shouldn’t be underestimated.
Michaels dismissed concerns that political humor would be more challenging now following settlements involving Paramount and Disney in relation to Trump. He hinted at a possible cast shakeup in the upcoming 51st season of “SNL,” mentioning that cast member James Austin Johnson would continue portraying Trump.
The decision to cancel Colbert has enraged many of his fans, including Democrats, who feel that the move violated anti-briety laws. They have suggested a link between the cancellation of Colbert and a recent settlement just before the FCC approved an $8 billion merger with SkyDance Media.
As for Colbert’s financial struggles, reports indicate that his show lost “over $40 million a year,” with an annual budget exceeding $100 million. This is significant considering the profitability of CBS’s daytime and prime-time programming.
