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CBS Replaces Late-Night Programming with Byron Allen's Comedy Block

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CBS Announces New Late-Night Lineup Featuring Allen Media Group Programs

CBS has announced a significant shift in its late-night programming, effective May 22, with a new block set to replace "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert." The new lineup will feature "Comics Unleashed With Byron Allen" at 11:35 p.m. and "Funny You Should Ask" at 12:35 a.m. This change follows the final broadcast of "The Late Show" on May 21.

This programming overhaul is part of a time-buy agreement where Allen Media Group will purchase airtime from CBS and manage ad sales for the entire two-hour block.

New Late-Night Lineup Details

Beginning May 22, CBS will broadcast the following new schedule:

  • 11:35 p.m. (10:35c): "Comics Unleashed With Byron Allen"

    • Two back-to-back half-hour episodes will air nightly.
    • The show features comedians performing short sets and engaging in discussions about stand-up routines, hosted by Byron Allen.
    • "Comics Unleashed" has previously aired in the 12:35 a.m. slot, including since September, following the cancellation of "After Midnight."

  • 12:35 a.m. (11:35c): "Funny You Should Ask"

    • This is a comedy game show where contestants answer trivia questions with input from a panel of comics.
    • Jon Kelley hosts the program, which has been in syndication since 2017.

Executive producers for both shows include Byron Allen, Carolyn Folks, Jennifer Lucas, Jodi Miller, and Peter Steen. Dylan King also serves as an executive producer for "Comics Unleashed," while Bob Boden, Scott Satin, and Eric Charbonnel are additional executive producers for "Funny You Should Ask."

Business Model and Financial Considerations

Under the new arrangement, Allen Media Group will purchase airtime from CBS for the programming block and manage all ad sales. This innovative economic model is designed to alleviate financial pressures on the network.

Allen Media Group will also cover the full production costs of its programs and will receive the majority of the commercial advertising units within the shows. This structure is anticipated to result in profitability for CBS's late-night segment.

Byron Allen had stated that the arrangement effectively results in "zero" cost for CBS, representing a significant shift in the network's financial approach to late-night programming.

This time-buy agreement is in effect for the 2026-27 season.

Context of "The Late Show" Conclusion

The programming change follows CBS's decision to conclude "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" after an 11-year run, with its final episode scheduled for May 21. CBS cited financial pressures in late-night television, high production costs, and a general decline in late-night TV ratings as key factors in the decision. This decline is largely attributed to the rise of streaming services.

Some observers speculated on political motivations for the cancellation, citing Colbert's criticism of President Donald Trump and Paramount's (CBS parent company) then-pursuit of Trump administration approval for a proposed sale to Skydance. Weeks prior to the cancellation, CBS settled a defamation lawsuit filed by Trump.

In contrast, Allen's programs are characterized by lower production costs compared to traditional network late-night shows and typically avoid political humor. They are also designed as "evergreens," allowing for repeated broadcasts of older episodes, further contributing to cost efficiency.

Byron Allen had previously expressed keen interest in the 11:35 p.m. slot, reportedly stating in October, "If they’re looking for a show, my hand is already up."

About Byron Allen and Allen Media Group

Byron Allen began his comedy career at 14, performing at the Comedy Store. By 18, he became the youngest comedian to perform on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. He later co-hosted NBC’s "Real People" in the 1980s and hosted "The Byron Allen Show" from 1989 to 1992.

Allen is the founder and owner of Allen Media Group (formerly Entertainment Studios), which produces a variety of programming. Notable acquisitions by Allen Media Group include The Weather Channel in 2018. In March 2026, Allen's investment arm, Allen Family Capital, acquired an 11% stake in the premium cable network Starz for $25 million.

Allen has been recognized as a media executive and an advocate for Black ownership in media. He is married to TV producer Jennifer Lucas and they have three children.

Allen stated his appreciation for CBS's decision to pick up the two-hour comedy block.