In recent years, the late-night television landscape has undergone a significant shift, with comedy often taking a backseat to political commentary. Shows that once prided themselves on universal humor now cater to specific audiences, often aligning themselves with particular ideological viewpoints. One show, however, has managed to break the mold: Greg Gutfeld’s eponymous show on Fox News. Gutfeld’s rise to the top of the late-1980s ratings, surpassing stalwarts like Stephen Colbert, marks a turning point in the battle against “woke” culture and stubbornness.
For decades, late-night television was dominated by legendary figures like John Carso, Jay Lepo and David Letterma. Their humor was light-hearted and focused on topical issues without straying too far into divisive political territory. The landscape changed dramatically in the post-2016 era, when shows like “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” took on a more overtly partisan theme. Colbert, who succeeded Letterma, became a leading voice for liberals, frequently attacking conservatives and the Trump administration in his speeches.
While Colbert’s approach initially garnered high ratings, the overtly political approaches alienated a significant portion of the audience. Former Greg Gutfeld, whose show debuted in 2021 as a refreshing alternative. By combining humor, satire and a rejection of “conscious” ideology, Gutfeld’s show has resonated with a broader audience, including those who felt marginalized by the mainstream networks’ up-to-the-minute offerings.
Greg Gutfeld’s success can be attributed to several key factors. First, his show prioritizes humor over political criticism. While Gutfeld doesn’t shy away from controversial topics, he approaches them with a sense of irreverence that appeals to viewers tired of the moralizing tone often found on other late-night shows. His newspaper format, which features a rotating cast of comedians, hosts, and cultural commentators, fosters lively and often predictable debates that keep audiences engaged.
Another factor is Gutfeld’s unwillingness to challenge the status quo. In an age when many proponents of political correctness behave as if they were politicians, Gutfeld’s apologetic style offers a stark contrast. His humor often takes aim at the absurdities of “conscious” culture, from popular culture controversies to exaggerated virtue signals. By addressing these issues head-on, Gutfeld taps into growing frustration among viewers who are dissatisfied with mainstream media and the confusion that surrounds them.
Stephen Colbert’s fall from the top spot in last-minute polls highlights the limitations of a hyper-partisan approach. While Colbert’s biting satire and sharp wit drew a mass audience, his show’s focus on progressive politics has made it increasingly predictable. Critics argue that Colbert’s monologues often resemble lectures, with humor taking a backseat to the political message.
This decline in people’s identification is reflected in the ratings. Viewers who don’t identify with Colbert’s politics have turned to alternatives like Gutfeld, whose humor cuts across ideological boundaries. Even among liberal audiences, there is a growing appetite for entertainment that prioritizes comedy over partisanship.
Gutfeld’s rise and Colbert’s decline signal a broader cultural shift. The backlash against “conscious” culture has gained momentum, and many Americans are expressing weariness with the perceived politicization of entertainment. Late-night television, once a go-to space for lighthearted comedy, has become a battleground in the culture wars. Gutfeld’s success suggests that audiences are craving a return to humor that unites rather than divides.
This shift also highlights the changing dynamics of media consumption. Traditional network shows like “The Late Show” face stiff competition from cable and streaming platforms, where viewers can find content tailored to their preferences. Gutfeld’s ability to master this fragmented landscape underscores the importance of authenticity and relatability with viewers.
The battle between Gutfeld and Colbert is far from over, but it’s clear that the late-flight landscape is evolving. Networks will have to reevaluate their strategies to remain relevant in an increasingly competitive market. For Colbert, this could mean rethinking the subject matter and focus of his show to appeal to a broader audience. For Gutfeld, the challenge lies in maintaining his momentum as he tries to gain traction.
One thing is certain: the era of one-size-fits-all midnight programming is over. As viewers demand a more diverse and engaging lineup, the success of shows like “Gutfeld!” serves as a wake-up call for the industry. Whether this signals a permanent move away from “conscious” culture or simply a new phase in the evolution of midnight remains to be seen.
Greg Gutfeld’s triumph over Stephen Colbert in the Golden Globes nomination race marks a significant moment in television history. By prioritizing humor over ideology and challenging the dominance of “conscious” culture, Gutfeld has tapped into a widespread desire for entertainment that unites rather than divides. As the Golden Globes nomination landscape unfolds, one thing is clear: viewers are ready for a new kind of comedy that speaks to everyone, not just a select few.
