I couldn't believe that decision at the time, I felt like I was missing something about Larry Wilmore - Like he was famous in things before the Daily Show or something.
On the surface (and not to give myself credit as a talent observer or anything) he appeared to be a weak correspondent who showed no signs of being able to host a show at that point in his career.
I decided to let him actually start and see if he transformed behind a desk into something different then his fairly remedial, slightly chuckle worthy Daily Show character, and he was just as he was.
It's really incredible what James Corden has done with that show. I thought Stephen Colbert was a shoe in to be a late night heavy weight.
My only reservation was if he could transition from playing a character to playing himself. At the time I thought it was a silly reservation, but now it seems he really is struggling to engage and entertain as himself. He often just freezes when A list guests give him softball conversation set ups. It's really weird to watch after watching an uber confident actor on the Colbert Report.
Corden on the other hand has the perfect demeanor and skills for American late night TV and apparently has an all star writing and production team.
But Corden is late, late night and for whatever reason that freedom and originality doesn't translate as well to an earlier timeslot. I'm sure a lot of that is the networks fault but it could also be the added pressure.
I don't think political commentary is Jimmy's thing. He is fine at light comedy and musical parodies. Of all the talk shows, his must be the most popular with conservatives, in its blandness.
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I don't think political commentary is Jimmy's thing. He is fine at light comedy and musical parodies. Of all the talk shows, his must be the most popular with conservatives, in its blandness.
Late night has become really stale. Conan does a good job still but I miss the days of the masterbating bear. Clueless gamer is a good segment. I like Corden (been a fan since his time in UK comedy series Gavin and Stacey) but I don't think he is made for late night. His hosting (awards shows) is not very good either. This is where he really shines:
Regina's own Andy Shauf was on James Corden last night. I'm guessing Reggie Watts was responsible for the booking as he is a huge fan and has gushed about Andy in the past.
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