It’s always good to know that Comedy Central has confidence in Jon and Stephen. But it’s even nicer to hear that Comedy Central is making it official. According to the NY Times blog, Stephen Colbert has signed a contract with the network to host the “Colbert Report” until December 31, 2012, and Jon Stewart has signed on for six months in addition to that. According to Doug Herzog, the president of MTV Networks Entertainment Group (which includes Comedy Central), “Of course we’d like to sign them for more years. They are still growing. They are still fresh and relevant and sharp.”
It looks as if the signing of the contract was meant to coincide, and counteract, the move of Conan O’Brien to TBS in the fall. Herzog also said to the Times, “I’m not sure what else is left? Well, beating Conan.” He mentioned that Stephen and Jon do something totally different than what Conan does, and that there’s room for everyone. It’s pretty obvious, however, that Comedy Central wants to hold tightly to the youngest demographic in late night viewership, as well as two of their network’s strongest shows, and wants to show TBS and Conan that they’re willing to do what it takes to keep Jon and Stephen in the limelight during this pivotal time in late night viewership.
Whoo!! Glad to hear this! Especially since I’ll probably get to see them in 2011, just wanted to be sure they’re still there. Thanks for posting about this, DB! :D
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I cheered when I read about this! Now if only I can find a way to haul myself to a live taping of the shows before they are gone for good!
It will be interesting to see how the shows will fair up against Conan.
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2012-2013 is going to be a very fun year for late night shake ups. Letterman’s contract is up at the end of ’12. I don’t think CBS would want Stewart or Colbert just b/c their genre of comedy is much more satire/parody than Letterman; Craig Ferguson (whom I think puts on a great unique late night show and does some of the best interviews) has stated that he isn’t interested in going on at 11:35, but that could just be him saying what he is supposed to. He did say Jon should take over for letterman, but again–I just don’t think he would work.
One guy I doubt CBS would think of, but actually would fit very well with their late night lineup would be Neil Patrick Harris. I know he’s in HIMYM, but it will be near if not over 150 episodes–well over the amount needed for a good syndication deal. Harris would be very young to be the host (40 y.o.) but I think would make a good host and fit CBS’ demos.
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This makes me a very happy person! Thanks for the great news! :D
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Wonderful news! Congrats to Stephen and Jon. Two more years and eight months at least for TCR. Many, many wonderful shows await us. And maybe Comedy Central can work with the cable/satellite systems till they are as widely shown as TBS. I would love that.
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It is KILLING ME that Conan and TDS/TCR are in the same timeslot.
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