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The Late Show with Stephen Colbert

2015

Original language: English

  • comedy
  • talk

The story

Stephen Colbert brings his signature satire and comedy to The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, the #1 show in late night, where he talks with an eclectic mix of guests about what is new and relevant in the worlds of politics, entertainment, business, music, technology, and more. Featuring bandleader Jon Batiste with his band Stay Human, the Emmy Award-nominated show is broadcast from the historic Ed Sullivan Theater.

What it’s like

Bright, flat studio light over a wide proscenium stage, with the camera cutting between a static medium shot of Stephen Colbert at his desk and close-ups that catch the glint of his glasses and the warm wood of the Ed Sullivan Theater. The palette is polished and theatrical: navy and gold set pieces, a glossy digital finish, crowds of audience faces lit to read clearly on a living-room screen. Sound is the defining texture, with a brass-heavy house band (Jon Batiste and Stay Human) punching in and out of transitions, applause rolling like weather, and the rhythm of a monologue that builds, pauses for laughs and lands its punchlines in tight bursts. The vibe is brisk, sharp and wry, with a topical political edge that can turn earnest in sincere moments with guests. It suits a weeknight wind-down, background while cooking or folding laundry, or a late, half-attentive watch after the news. Intensity is low: no violence or gore, mild profanity, and sexual references kept to innuendo. Political satire can sting, but the register stays jovial. It is for viewers who want quick, funny, news-literate company and a little warmth from a familiar host.

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