The Most Popular Late-Night Talk Show in America, Ranked

Choose the late-night talk show you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Apr 22, 2024 07:16
Late-night talk shows have become a staple of American television, offering viewers a unique blend of comedy, interviews, and entertainment that helps them unwind at the end of the day. With so many shows, each with its own style and flair, fans often discuss and debate which one provides the best nighttime entertainment. By creating a ranking of these shows, viewers can see which ones are resonating the most with audiences across the country. This ranking system allows you, the viewer, to have a direct impact by voting for your favorite late-night talk show. Your votes contribute to real-time updates, ensuring that the ranking accurately reflects current viewer preferences. Not only does your participation help identify the leading shows, but it also fuels lively conversation and community amongst fellow fans.

What Is the Most Popular Late-night Talk Show in America?

  1. 1
    31
    votes
    The show has been a staple of American late-night television since its debut in 1954. Jimmy Fallon's charm, humor, and celebrity guests make it a must-watch for millions of viewers.
    The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon is a late-night talk show in America that features comedy sketches, celebrity interviews, music performances, and games. It is known for its high-energy, interactive format and has been the most popular late-night talk show in America since its inception.
    • Host: Jimmy Fallon
    • Original release: February 17, 2014
    • Time slot: 11:35 PM
    • Channel: NBC
    • Average viewership: over 2 million
  2. 2
    21
    votes
    The Late Show with Stephen Colbert
    Unknown authorUnknown author · Public domain
    Stephen Colbert's unique brand of political satire and biting humor has made his show a hit with viewers. The show features interviews with celebrities and politicians, as well as musical performances.
    The Late Show with Stephen Colbert is a popular late-night talk show in America that premiered on September 8, 2015. It is hosted by Stephen Colbert, an American comedian, writer, producer, and television host. The show airs on CBS and follows the typical late-night talk show format, featuring celebrity interviews, comedy sketches, monologues, and musical performances. Colbert has been praised for his witty and satirical commentary on current events and politics, which has become a trademark of the show. The Late Show with Stephen Colbert has won several prestigious awards, including multiple Primetime Emmy Awards.
    • Premiere Date: September 8, 2015
    • Host: Stephen Colbert
    • Network: CBS
    • Format: Late-night talk show
    • Genre: Comedy, Talk show
  3. 3
    15
    votes
    This show has been a fixture of American late-night television since 1996, and Trevor Noah has brought his own unique perspective to the show since taking over in 2015. The show is known for its sharp political commentary and interviews with newsmakers.
    The Daily Show with Trevor Noah is a popular cable news show that combines satire, comedy, and current events commentary. It serves as a comedic take on news and political events, often using humor and satire to critique political figures and social issues. The show covers a wide range of topics, including politics, entertainment, sports, and popular culture.
    • Host: Trevor Noah
    • First Aired: July 22, 1996
    • Genre: Satire, News, Comedy
    • Language: English
    • Running Time: Approximately 30 minutes
    The Daily Show with Trevor Noah in other rankings
  4. 4
    21
    votes
    Jimmy Kimmel Live!
    Pete Souza · Public domain

    Jimmy Kimmel Live!

    Jimmy Kimmel
    Jimmy Kimmel's show has been on the air since 2003 and is known for its mix of celebrity interviews, comedy sketches, and musical performances. Kimmel's humor is irreverent and often takes on current events and pop culture.
    Jimmy Kimmel Live! is a popular late-night talk show in America. It features a mix of celebrity interviews, comedy sketches, music performances, and various recurring segments. The show is known for its humorous monologues and the unique personality of its host, Jimmy Kimmel, who often incorporates social and political commentary into his comedy. With its prime-time slot on ABC, Jimmy Kimmel Live! has become a staple of American late-night television.
    • Network: ABC
    • Running Time: 60 minutes
    • Premiere Date: January 26, 2003
    • Filming Location: Los Angeles, California
    • Live Audience: Yes
  5. 5
    9
    votes
    Seth Meyers' show is known for its witty monologues, political commentary, and celebrity interviews. The show has been on the air since 2014 and has quickly become a favorite of late-night viewers.
    The Late Night with Seth Meyers is a popular late-night talk show in America that airs on NBC. Created by Lorne Michaels, the show features Seth Meyers as its host and premiered on February 24, 2014. With a humorous and satirical tone, Seth Meyers delivers monologues, interviews celebrities, and covers current events. The show has gained a significant following and has won several awards. It provides a platform for comedy, news commentary, sketches, and interviews, attracting a diverse audience. The Late Night with Seth Meyers showcases a mix of traditional talk show elements and unique segments, making it a refreshing and entertaining late-night option for viewers.
    • Host: Seth Meyers
    • Network: NBC
    • Premiere Date: February 24, 2014
    • Format: Late-night talk show
    • Tone: Humorous and satirical
  6. 6
    6
    votes
    James Corden's show is known for its viral celebrity segments like "Carpool Karaoke" and "Drop the Mic." The show also features interviews with celebrities and musical performances.
    The Late Late Show with James Corden is a popular late-night talk show in America. It features various celebrity interviews, musical performances, comedy sketches, and games. The show is known for its light-hearted and comedic approach, often incorporating James Corden's singing and hosting talents. It airs on CBS and has gained a significant following since its debut in 2015.
    • Original release: March 23, 2015
    • Network: CBS
    • Duration: 60 minutes
    • Production location: Los Angeles, California
    • Genre: Late-night talk show
  7. 7
    20
    votes
    Conan O'Brien's show has been on the air since 2010 and is known for its offbeat humor and celebrity interviews. O'Brien's show often takes on current events and pop culture in a unique and hilarious way.
    Conan is a late-night talk show in America that combines comedy sketches, interviews with celebrity guests, and live music performances. Hosted by Conan O'Brien, it aims to entertain and engage its audience through a mix of humor and entertainment. The show often features segments that highlight Conan's comedic style and improv skills, making it a unique and popular choice for late-night viewers.
    • First Episode Date: November 8, 2010
    • Network: TBS
    • Runtime: 60 minutes
    • Broadcast Schedule: Monday-Thursday, weekly
    • Location: Burbank, California, United States
  8. 8
    0
    votes

    The Ellen DeGeneres Show

    Ellen DeGeneres
    While not technically a late-night talk show, Ellen DeGeneres' daytime show is hugely popular with viewers and has won numerous awards. The show features celebrity interviews, comedy sketches, and musical performances.
    The Ellen DeGeneres Show is a highly popular daytime talk show that features various segments including celebrity interviews, musical performances, comedy skits, and audience participation games. The show is known for its light-hearted and comedic approach, often addressing current events and promoting kindness and positivity. Hosted by Ellen DeGeneres, the show first premiered in 2003.
    • Premiere Year: 2003
    • Host: Ellen DeGeneres
    • Format: Talk show
    • Segments: Celebrity interviews, musical performances, comedy skits, audience participation games
    • Tone: Light-hearted, comedic
    The Ellen DeGeneres Show in other rankings
  9. 9
    1
    votes
    The show is hosted by James Corden and airs on CBS. It features a mix of celebrity interviews, comedy sketches, and musical performances.
    The Late Show with James Corden is a popular late-night talk show in America. It features a mix of celebrity interviews, comedy sketches, music performances, and various segments. The show is known for its entertaining and lighthearted style, often incorporating games and unique concepts into the format. James Corden, the British comedian, actor, and writer, hosts the show and brings his charismatic and witty personality to the stage. The Late Show with James Corden has gained a significant following and has become a staple in the late-night television landscape.
    • Type: Late-night talk show
    • Country of Origin: United States
    • Language: English
    • Original Network: CBS
    • First Episode Date: March 23, 2015
  10. 10
    -1
    votes
    Samantha Bee's show is known for its biting political commentary and feminist perspective. The show features interviews with newsmakers and celebrities, as well as comedy segments.
    Full Frontal with Samantha Bee is a late-night talk show in America that combines comedy, news, and political commentary. Hosted by Samantha Bee, the show offers a satirical take on current events and important social issues.
    • Network: TBS
    • Genre: Late-night talk show
    • Original release: February 8, 2016
    • Running time: Approximately 21 minutes
    • Number of seasons: 5 (as of 2021)

Missing your favorite late-night talk show?

Graphs
Discussion

Ranking factors for popular late-night talk show

  1. Social media following
    The number of followers, likes, shares, and comments on a talk show's social media accounts can be an indicator of the show's current popularity. Active and engaged fans will be more likely to share content and interact with the show's social media presence.
  2. Online streaming views
    Along with traditional TV ratings, the number of views a late-night talk show receives on online streaming platforms is an important indicator of popularity.
  3. Guest and talent bookings
    The caliber of guests that appear on a show, as well as the show's ability to consistently attract A-list celebrities, politicians, and other public figures, is an important factor in determining the show's popularity.
  4. Critical acclaim and awards
    Recognition from industry insiders through awards, nominations, and favorable reviews can help to confirm a late-night talk show's popularity and prowess.
  5. Audience demographics
    A talk show's popularity among specific demographic groups, such as younger viewers, can be an important factor to consider when determining overall popularity.
  6. Longevity and consistency
    The ability of a late-night talk show to maintain its popularity over the years can be an important indicator of its overall popularity.
  7. Media buzz and coverage
    The amount of media coverage a show receives can be a factor in determining its popularity. Media buzz can help to drive new viewership and establish a show as a cultural force.
  8. Public opinion and word-of-mouth
    The general public's perception of a show, along with word-of-mouth recommendations, can contribute to its popularity.
  9. Influence on pop culture
    A show's impact on popular culture, including catchphrases, memorable moments, and parodies, can be an indicator of its popularity and impact on audiences.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular late-night talk show in America. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or show is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 4566 views
  • 151 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each show once every 24 hours. The rank of each show is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most popular late-night talk show in america

Late-night talk shows have been a staple of American television for decades, providing a unique blend of entertainment, humor, and commentary on current events. Hosted by some of the most talented and well-known comedians and talk show hosts in the industry, these shows have become a beloved part of American pop culture. Some of the most popular late-night talk shows in America include The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, The Late Late Show with James Corden, and Late Night with Seth Meyers. Each of these shows brings their own unique style and approach to the late-night format, with a mix of monologues, interviews, and comedy skits. Over the years, these shows have featured a wide range of guests, from A-list celebrities to politicians and athletes. They have also become a platform for important social and political issues, with hosts using their platform to speak out on topics ranging from gun control to immigration. So, what is the most popular late-night talk show in America? StrawPoll users have weighed in, and the results might surprise you. Keep reading to find out which show came out on top!

Share this article