Late Show With Stephen Colbert Gets New Showrunner

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CBS announced today that they’ve promoted Chris Licht, creator and former EP of MSNBC’s Morning Joe, to executive producer/showrunner of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. Licht’s promotion comes at a crucial time for the show, as Colbert’s Late Show has had some trouble finding its footing since Colbert took over the show last September. While Colbert has produced some high-quality interviews, other aspects of the show haven’t been as memorable.

CBS is confident Licht is the man for the job. Licht has been working with CBS since 2011, both as VP of Programming for CBS News, and as EP of the network’s morning show, CBS This Morning. In that role, Licht has delivered the highest ratings that This Morning has seen in 30 years, and CBS Television Studios president David Stapf is confident he’ll deliver similar results for The Late Show.

“Everyone in the company has admired what Chris has done for CBS in the morning,” says Stapf. “The opportunity to bring him to The Late Show is like adding an outstanding head coach to a great team.”

Licht’s introduction to The Late Show should help improve the show’s formula and provide a respite for Colbert, who has been serving as showrunner, as well as host, since its inception. Colbert has been similarly excited by Licht’s track record, saying “[I’m] thrilled Chris is joining us at The Late Show,” and adding: “I am so impressed by what he has done at CBS This Morning, and I trust someone has told him he doesn’t have to get up at 4 AM anymore.”

Licht has been knee-deep in the world of television for a decade; in addition to his credits with This Morning and Morning Joe, he also served as an EP on MSNBC’s Scarborough Country. Simply put, the guy seems ready (and more than capable) to change the show for the better.

“You can’t work in this business without being in awe of Stephen Colbert and his talents,” said Licht of his new boss. “The chance to work with Stephen and help build a valuable late night franchise, while continuing to grow at CBS, is truly an honor. I can’t wait to get started.”

The show’s roster of EP’s now consists of Colbert, Licht, Jon Stewart, Tom Purcell, and Meredith Bennett.

The Late Show with Stephen Colbert can be seen weeknights at 11:35 p.m. on CBS.

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Bill Tressler

Bill is a writer and comedy enthusiast from New York. An avid gamer and podcast fan, he strives to always toe the line between charming irreverence and grating honesty.
Bill Tressler

Bill Tressler

Bill is a writer and comedy enthusiast from New York. An avid gamer and podcast fan, he strives to always toe the line between charming irreverence and grating honesty.