Part 5/11:
The abrupt end of Colbear’s show is emblematic of a larger trend: audiences migrating toward digital platforms that value authenticity over polished, often politicized, content. As one commentator summarized, "Everyone’s moved over to the digital lane, where we are for stuff that’s authentic." This shift signals the waning influence of traditional late-night anchors, many of whom have become heavily politicized, alienating viewers seeking escapism.
The Death of the Traditional Late-Night Format
Cultural Obsolescence
The classic format—middle-aged white men behind a desk, interviewing celebrities with benign questions—has largely become obsolete. The cultural moment has shifted towards more genuine, diverse, and unconventional forms of entertainment, both in tone and substance.