Byron Allen is stepping into the spotlight, taking over the weeknight time slot formerly held by Stephen Colbert’s The Late Show, promising a fresh, comedy-driven approach with “no politics.”

The veteran host of Comics Unleashed, 65, appeared on CBS Mornings on May 20, sharing details about the transition as Colbert prepared for his final episode on May 21. “No politics. That’s it. You come, you laugh,” Allen said, explaining his mission to unite audiences through comedy. “I created the show 20 years ago, and this fall marks our 20th anniversary. We’ve had a thousand comedians, every shape and size — I want to bring people together using laughter.”

CBS officially announced in April that Allen’s program would occupy the 11:35 p.m. to 12:37 a.m. slot, airing back-to-back episodes each night, followed by Funny You Should Ask, hosted by Jon Kelley from 12:37 to 1:37 a.m. Comics Unleashed first premiered in September 2006, while Funny You Should Ask debuted in September 2017.

Allen addressed the backlash surrounding Colbert’s show cancellation, emphasizing the business side of the decision. “I love Stephen Colbert. I’m a big fan. Once they made the decision, I said, ‘OK, this isn’t show business, this is business show.’ They said, ‘We’re losing lots of money.’ I offered a solution that keeps the audience and manages costs. It’s about supporting Colbert and keeping the network afloat.”

The host also highlighted the financial pressure networks face today. “I told them, ‘Don’t spend $150 million on a show you’re canceling. Let me handle this slot.’ CBS agreed, and we’re ready to deliver laughs without losing viewers,” Allen said.

As Colbert prepares to say goodbye after a decade-long run on late night, Allen’s Comics Unleashed will officially take over the time slot on Friday, May 22. “I absolutely love Colbert. I’d do anything to support him. He doesn’t need me, but I want to ensure the audience stays entertained,” Allen added.

Colbert’s final episode marks the end of a significant era in late-night TV, following CBS’ July 2025 decision to cancel the show amidst a $16 million settlement controversy involving President Trump and the network’s parent company, Paramount.

Byron Allen’s move signals a new chapter for the 11:35 p.m. slot, promising comedy, entertainment, and a politics-free zone for viewers who’ve long followed Colbert’s late-night legacy.