After the conclusion of The Late Show With Stephen Colbert, CBS will introduce a new late-night programming block the following day. This change, taking place on May 22, is significant as it marks a shift in the network’s nightly lineup.
Starting at 11:35 p.m., CBS will broadcast Comics Unleashed With Byron Allen, followed by the comedy game show Funny You Should Ask at 12:35 a.m. The Late Show will officially end on May 21. Comics Unleashed has been airing in this later time slot during the current season and continued to do so during the 2023 writers and actors strikes.
A key aspect of this transition is that Byron Allen is purchasing airtime from CBS for his shows. His company, Allen Media Group, will be responsible for selling advertising spots during these two hours. This arrangement is expected to improve CBS’s financial performance in late-night programming.
Byron Allen stated, “I created and launched Comics Unleashed 20 years ago so my fellow comedians could have a platform to make people laugh. I appreciate CBS’ confidence in me by picking up our two-hour comedy block.” He has also shown interest in this late-night timeslot, saying in October 2025 that he would seize the opportunity.
Comics Unleashed, hosted by Allen, features various comedians performing short sets based on topics he provides. Meanwhile, Funny You Should Ask, hosted by Jon Kelley, involves contestants answering trivia questions with assistance from a panel of comedians.
The executive producers of both shows include Allen, Carolyn Folks, Jennifer Lucas, Jodi Miller, and Peter Steen. For Funny You Should Ask, Bob Boden, Scott Satin, and Eric Charbonnel also serve as executive producers.
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