Jimmy Fallon’s “Tonight Show” on NBC stands as the only major late-night program continuing regular production as the summer season progresses, while competitors pursue extended hiatuses. Seth Meyers’ “Late Night” launched a seven-week break this week, marking its longest hiatus since Meyers assumed hosting duties in 2014. Comedy Central’s “Daily Show” has also suspended operations for five weeks before resuming in September, with the network planning alternative programming rather than reruns during the interim.
Meanwhile, ABC’s “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” relies on guest hosts during Kimmel’s vacation period, and CBS has largely exited the late-night competition. The network has leased its late-night time slot to entrepreneur Byron Allen. Stephen Colbert’s program has also gone on hiatus as part of broader industry shifts.
The consolidation of late-night programming reflects a significant contraction in the sector. Ad spending for late-night television declined sharply to $209 million in 2025, compared to $519.7 million in 2017—a decrease of approximately 60 percent. Streaming services have drawn away audiences that traditionally viewed late-night hosts following local news broadcasts.
Contract negotiations across the industry have also shifted toward shorter terms. Kimmel recently signed a one-year deal with Disney extending through 2027, while John Oliver agreed to a one-year extension with HBO. Jon Stewart’s arrangement to host “The Daily Show” has involved consecutive one-year extensions since his 2024 return. Fallon and Meyers maintain longer-term agreements, with both contracts scheduled through 2028.
Article Attribution | Read More at Article Source
Article summary produced by Claude AI