Byron Allen ssn't 'trying to replace' Stephen Colbert as 'Comics Unleashed' takes over time slot

Media mogul Byron Allen is addressing comparisons to Stephen Colbert as his show Comics Unleashed prepares to take over CBS’ late-night slot following the end of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.

According to The Guardian, Allen stressed that he is “not trying to replace” Colbert, calling the longtime late-night host “irreplaceable” while acknowledging the difficult circumstances surrounding the cancellation of The Late Show.

CBS confirmed that Comics Unleashed will move into the 11:35 p.m. slot vacated by Colbert after the final episode of The Late Show aired this week, ending the franchise’s more than three-decade run.

Allen said he approached CBS with a business-focused pitch, offering a cheaper programming alternative at a time when networks are increasingly struggling with the economics of traditional late-night television. He reportedly told executives the arrangement could save the network more than $100 million.

The comedian and entrepreneur also emphasised that Comics Unleashed would avoid politics and focus purely on comedy. Allen said he wants the show to be a place where audiences can “laugh” and avoid divisive cultural debates.

The move comes amid ongoing debate over why CBS ended The Late Show, despite it remaining one of the highest-rated late-night programs. While CBS cited financial pressures, critics, including some entertainers and media observers, have questioned whether political tensions surrounding Colbert’s criticism of Donald Trump and Paramount leadership played a role in the decision.

Allen, however, has largely avoided engaging in the political controversy, instead framing the opportunity as the fulfillment of a lifelong dream inspired by watching Johnny Carson as a child.