How will late-night TV hosts cope with COVID-19?
The coronavirus pandemic has forced many late-night shows to adopt new techniques to air a full-scale production.
By Lauryn Russell
Late-night shows like ABC’s “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” “Late Late Show” with James Corden and “The Tonight Show” starring Jimmy Fallon have resumed production during the mass outbreak of COVID-19. Hosts have altered the way their show will continue during this critical time.
Initially, shows planned to resume as usual, but without a live audience. The crew and production team would now add the laugh tracks and sound affects. As soon as the 6-feet-apart rule was set, everything began to change. Their plan now was to shelter, and broadcast, in place.
The “Late Late Show” with James Corden has continued recording in the privacy of James’ own garage, where all the recording and production is done by Corden himself.
“We really explored every option to try and put a show on for you, but right now feel the safest thing to do is to stop for a moment and take advice further down the line. Stay safe out there,” said Corden on Twitter. The show recently showcased a ‘Homefest’ special, which introduces many celebrities live streaming from their homes to bring awareness to stop the spread of COVID-19 and also showcases a mini at home concert from major artists including BTS, John Legend, Billie Eilish and more.
Hosts are having to adapt to the new conditions, while still putting on an enjoyable show for viewers. Majority are continuing to deliver jokes, interviews and monologues via iPad. This is a new day and age for the late-night shows, but they pledge to do their best.
“For us, these shows have been about the presenting idea that we’re all going through this together,” said Gavin Purcell, an executive producer for “The Tonight Show.” “People are adjusting to working from home, and what is it like to be stuck there? People have let Jimmy into their homes forever, and he thought it might be cool to let them into his home.”
As hosts revise the way their shows air without stage effects, they will be seen in a new light by their audience.
This might become the new norm. People experience a more authentic side of late-night television. Audiences receive an exclusive invite into the personal and private lives of hosts. By seeing the inside of Colbert’s bathroom or Fallon’s daughters interrupting the show just to say a quick hello to their dad, viewers find a sense of comfort and vulnerability that will never be forgotten.
At a time like this, people are grateful for the joy and laughter these shows bring into their home, but many will continue to wonder if things will be the same after this is over. Will hosts continue to limit audiences to their studio? How long before interviews can be in person? These are questions that remain a mystery, but will no doubt be answered as time goes on.
