After Stephen Colbert's Departure, Byron Allen Secures CBS Slot on "The Late Show"

Byron Allen is stepping into late-night television on May 22 with his show "Comics Unleashed with Byron Allen" moving to the 11:35 p.m. slot on CBS, following Stephen Colbert's final sign-off. He will also host the game show "Funny You Should Ask" at midnight, taking control of CBS's late-night block.

Allen's programming will occupy the time slots that have defined CBS's late-night lineup for years. This move gives him full control over the network's late-night hours, marking a significant shift from his previous endeavors.

Less than a year ago, Allen settled a $10 billion racial discrimination lawsuit against McDonald's. The case alleged that the fast-food chain excluded Black-owned media from its main advertising budget, despite Allen Media Group's significant media properties like The Weather Channel and TheGrio.

McDonald's denied any wrongdoing, and both parties reached a confidential agreement before the trial. Allen's proactive approach to late-night television dates back to 2025 when he expressed his interest in hosting a show on CBS following the announcement of "The Late Show" ending.

Allen's journey to late-night television has been unconventional, starting with stand-up comedy at a young age and later building a successful media empire with Allen Media Group. His entrance into late-night programming signifies a strategic move rather than an audition for the role.

With this opportunity, Byron Allen is not just a late-night host; he is now programming the late-night lineup on CBS, marking a significant milestone in his career trajectory.