The impending departure of Stephen Colbert from The Late Show is a significant moment in late-night television, and Seth Meyers, a fellow late-night host, is feeling the sentiment deeply. Meyers, in an exclusive interview with Deadline, expressed his heartfelt sadness over Colbert's exit, emphasizing the emotional impact of losing a colleague and a time slot. He shared his perspective on the situation, highlighting the excitement and opportunity that comes with such a role, and the disappointment of seeing it filled by someone else. This sentiment resonates with many in the industry, who recognize the unique challenges and rewards of late-night hosting.
Colbert's departure is not just a loss for CBS, but also for the late-night landscape as a whole. The network is now in the process of filling the 11:35 p.m. time slot, a move that Meyers sees as a temporary solution. He acknowledges the strategic decision CBS has made, but also expresses his hope for Colbert's future endeavors. Meyers is particularly intrigued by Colbert's upcoming project, co-writing the screenplay for the next Lord of the Rings movie, which he finds exciting and promising.
The interview also touches on the personal relationship between Meyers and Zach Heinzerling, the director of the Netflix documentary Rafa, starring Rafael Nadal. The fact that Heinzerling is Meyers' brother-in-law adds a layer of familial connection to the conversation. This connection provides a unique insight into the dynamics of the industry, where personal relationships can influence professional collaborations and opportunities. Meyers' enthusiasm for the documentary is evident, and he sees it as a testament to the power of storytelling in sports.
The article concludes by reflecting on the emotional and professional implications of Colbert's departure. It raises questions about the future of late-night television and the impact of such changes on the industry. Meyers' perspective offers a nuanced view, balancing his sadness over the loss with optimism for Colbert's future and the potential for new opportunities in the ever-evolving landscape of late-night television.