Late Night Shows Return After 5-Month Writers Strike, Hosts Share Gratitude
Late-night television shows have made a triumphant return after a five-month hiatus due to a writers’ strike. The Writers Guild of America recently reached a tentative agreement with the networks, bringing an end to the strike and allowing shows such as ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel Live, CBS’ Late Show With Stephen Colbert, NBC’s Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, and Late Night With Seth Meyers to resume production.
The return of these shows was met with expressions of gratitude from the hosts. Stephen Colbert, in a pre-taped segment, humorously portrayed himself on a rowboat at sea receiving the news of the strike’s end. Colbert wittingly remarked on the regulations now placed on artificial intelligence in the writing process. He expressed his joy at having his writers back, jokingly stating that they do not particularly care for fresh air and sunshine.
Jimmy Fallon, in a lively monologue, shared his excitement at being back in the studio. He delivered a series of jokes to express his enthusiasm, highlighting how much he loves his job. Fallon also took a moment to reflect on the past five months and expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to return to the show.
Jimmy Kimmel, whose show aired slightly later due to Monday Night Football, creatively addressed his absence with a cold open in which he visited a therapist, played by Arnold Schwarzenegger, before finding his stage occupied by a pickleball foursome. Kimmel emphasized the strangeness of not receiving applause upon entering a room and thanked the show’s crew and all the union crews involved. He praised the new contract negotiated by the Writers Guild of America, stating that it is a significant victory for all those involved in the writing process.
Seth Meyers, in a clip released before his show aired, expressed heartfelt thanks to his fellow writers, the leadership of the Writers Guild of America, and the Late Night crew for their patience during the strike. He humorously shared his experience of being at home for five months and the amusing conversation he had with his 7-year-old son about Rudy Giuliani, further highlighting his gratitude for being able to return to work.
After expressing their gratitude, the hosts delved into recapping the major events that occurred during their hiatus. Colbert presented a collection of clips and jokes focused on the news of the summer, with an emphasis on Donald Trump’s multiple indictments. Kimmel and Fallon also incorporated humor into their commentary on the past five months, including their takes on Taylor Swift and other noteworthy subjects. Meyers devoted his show to a segment called Closer Look, providing an in-depth analysis of recent events.
The return of these late-night shows marks a significant milestone for both the hosts and their loyal viewers. The shows’ resumption brings relief and enjoyment to audiences who have missed their daily dose of entertainment and humor. As these beloved late-night hosts settle back into their routines, they are grateful for the support and patience shown by their fans throughout the strike. With new stories to share and laughs to provide, late-night television is back and ready to entertain once again.
