Because the fallout from CBS’s cancellation of The Late Present with Stephen Colbert continues, considered one of late evening’s longest-reigning hosts have some ideas concerning the function of politics in comedy. Jay Leno, in an interview with Ronald Reagan Presidential Basis president/CEO David Trulio, stated that whereas internet hosting The Tonight Present, he was joyful to purpose for a stability of jokes about Democrats and Republicans. In right now’s local weather, although, he added, “Now it’s a must to be content material with half the viewers as a result of you’ve gotten [to] give your opinion… Why shoot for simply half an viewers on a regular basis? You recognize, why not attempt to get the entire [audience]?”
The veteran comic went on to say that “I imply, I wish to convey folks into the massive image. I don’t perceive why you’d alienate one explicit group… I’m not saying it’s a must to throw your assist or no matter, however simply do what’s humorous.”
Leno additionally commented that “I don’t suppose anyone needs to listen to a lecture,” as an alternative urging comedians to concentrate on their jokes. He famous that he was by no means positive if legendary comic Rodney Dangerfield was a Republican or Democrat, as a result of “We by no means mentioned [it], we simply mentioned jokes… Once I was with Rodney, it was at all times within the financial system of phrases — get to the joke as rapidly as potential.”
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Whereas Leno didn’t immediately deal with Colbert’s present ending, his one-time rival David Letterman did communicate out on July twenty fifth, calling CBS’s choice to finish the present “pure cowardice.” Jon Stewart additionally used his time on final week’s The Every day Present to talk in opposition to the choice.