The Late Late Show, an American late-night talk show, has been a staple of CBS programming from 1995 to 2023. Over its nearly three-decade run, the show has seen a variety of hosts, each bringing their own flair and style to the program. From Tom Snyder's intimate interviews to James Corden's viral segments, the show has evolved significantly with each host's tenure. This article explores the unique contributions of each host and how they shaped the show's
legacy.
Tom Snyder: The Original Host
Tom Snyder was the inaugural host of The Late Late Show, serving from 1995 to 1999. Snyder was chosen by David Letterman, who had the production rights to the time slot following his own show. Unlike traditional late-night hosts, Snyder was a former newsman, not a comedian, and his show featured an intimate interview format without a studio audience. This approach was reminiscent of his earlier work on NBC's Tomorrow show. Snyder's version of the show was known for its conversational monologues and interviews with a mix of celebrities, politicians, and newsmakers.
Snyder's show was unique in that it was simulcast on some CBS Radio stations, allowing for live viewer calls, a rarity in late-night television. Despite CBS's desire for a younger host with a comedy background, Snyder's tenure was marked by his distinctive style and the absence of a house band or announcer, setting a precedent for future iterations of the show.
Craig Kilborn and the Transition to Comedy
Craig Kilborn took over as host in 1999, following Snyder's departure. Kilborn, who came from The Daily Show and ESPN's SportsCenter, brought a more traditional late-night talk show format to The Late Late Show. His tenure lasted until 2004, and during this time, the show adopted a format more akin to other late-night programs, with a focus on comedy and celebrity interviews.
Kilborn's departure in 2004 led to a transitional period where various guest hosts auditioned for the role. This period of on-air auditions was a unique approach to selecting a new host and included notable figures like Drew Carey and Aisha Tyler. Ultimately, Craig Ferguson was chosen as the permanent host, marking a new era for the show.
Craig Ferguson and James Corden: New Directions
Craig Ferguson's tenure from 2005 to 2014 was the longest in the show's history. Known for his improvisational style and comedic monologues, Ferguson introduced new elements like his "robot skeleton sidekick," Geoff Peterson. His interviews were informal, often starting with the dramatic tearing of note cards, signaling a departure from scripted conversations.
James Corden took over in 2015, bringing a fresh approach with segments like Carpool Karaoke, which became viral sensations. Corden's style was more conversational, often interviewing multiple guests at once, and his tenure marked the first time the show had a house band. Corden's departure in 2023 concluded the show's run, leaving a legacy of innovation and entertainment.
