7.7 / 10 (based on 460 reviews)
Tracking the history of late-night TV from its inception, featuring stories about hosts such as Johnny Carson, Jay Leno, David Letterman, O’Brien, Jimmy Fallon, Kimmel, Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert.
Genre: Documentary, History
Main Cast: Billy Crystal, Jimmy Fallon, Conan O’Brien, Kliph Nesteroff
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 6 episodes
Shows Most Like The Story of Late Night (2021)
History of the Sitcom (2021)
7.1 / 10 (based on 342 reviews)
Examines how sitcoms have evolved to reflect the changing face of American families.
Genre: Documentary, History
Main Cast: Jason Alexander, Tracy Morgan, Emily VanDerWerff, Lorraine Ali
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 8 episodes, 45.0-minute runtime
The History of Comedy (2017)
8 / 10 (based on 493 reviews)
Utilizing archival footage punctuated by contemporary interviews with comedy legends and scholars, this is the history of not only what makes us laugh, but how comedy has affected the social and political landscape throughout history.
Genre: Documentary, Comedy, History
Main Cast: Kliph Nesteroff, Robert B. Weide, Elayne Boosler, Patton Oswalt
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
2 seasons, 14 episodes
Mary Beard’s Shock of the Nude (2020)
6.9 / 10 (based on 53 reviews)
Mary Beard looks at some of the most famous nudes in art, from the Venus de Medici to Michelangelo’s David, and argues controversy is nothing new.
Genre: Documentary
Main Cast: Mary Beard
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 2 episodes, 59.0-minute runtime
Extreme Ice Machines (2020)
7.1 / 10 (based on 11 reviews)
The humans and machines that tackle the world’s iciest terrain, offering a first-hand look at the sub-zero action.
Genre: Documentary
Main Cast:
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 8 episodes
Mike Tyson: The Knockout (2021)
8 / 10 (based on 291 reviews)
Mike Tyson’s climb, crash and comeback, from his difficult childhood to becoming undisputed world champion to his 1992 rape conviction and his personal struggles.
Genre: Documentary, Biography, Sport
Main Cast: Anthony Michael Hall, Rosie Perez, Mike Tyson, Jeff Wald
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 2 episodes, 169.0-minute runtime
Grayson’s Art Club (2020)
9 / 10 (based on 73 reviews)
Grayson Perry, one of Britain’s leading artists, brings the nation together through art, making new works and hosting masterclasses set to unleash our collective creativity during lockdown.
Genre: Documentary
Main Cast: Philippa Perry, Grayson Perry, Harry Hill, Noel Fielding
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
3 seasons, 21 episodes
Art of China (2014)
8.1 / 10 (based on 68 reviews)
Andrew Graham-Dixon undertakes an epic journey to uncover the art of China.
Genre: Documentary
Main Cast: Andrew Graham-Dixon
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 3 episodes, 59.0-minute runtime
The Art Mysteries (2020)
8.5 / 10 (based on 47 reviews)
Art sleuth Waldemar Januszczak uncovers the secret meanings hidden within some of the greatest paintings by Van Gogh, Gauguin, Cezanne and Seurat .
Genre: Documentary, Biography, History, Mystery
Main Cast: Waldemar Januszczak
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 4 episodes, 29.0-minute runtime
The landscape of late-night television is a rich tapestry woven with humor, celebrity, and the kind of candid moments that can only happen after hours. It’s a unique genre that has evolved significantly over the years, from the early days of Steve Allen and Johnny Carson to the modern era of Jimmy Fallon and Trevor Noah. Understanding this evolution and the impact of late-night shows on American culture is crucial for any TV enthusiast. This is where “The Story of Late Night,” a 2021 docuseries, steps in to offer a comprehensive look at the genre’s history, its key players, and its future.
The Genesis of Late Night
Late-night television didn’t just appear out of thin air. It was a product of experimentation, a response to the audience’s need for entertainment beyond the prime-time slots. “The Story of Late Night” kicks off by exploring these early days, focusing on the pioneers like Steve Allen, the first host of “The Tonight Show.” Allen’s blend of comedy, music, and celebrity interviews set the template for what late-night shows would become. The series doesn’t just stop at praising these early icons; it delves into the challenges they faced, from censorship issues to the technical limitations of live television.
The Carson Era
No discussion about late-night TV is complete without a significant focus on Johnny Carson, and the docuseries dedicates ample time to his influence. Carson’s tenure on “The Tonight Show” is often seen as the golden age of late-night television. His charm, wit, and the ease with which he handled celebrity guests made his version of “The Tonight Show” a staple in American homes. The series provides insights into Carson’s style, his memorable moments, and how he managed to stay at the top of the game for three decades. It also doesn’t shy away from discussing the controversies and the not-so-glamorous aspects of Carson’s reign, including the infamous late-night wars.
The Late-Night Wars
Perhaps one of the most fascinating chapters in the history of late-night TV is the battle for the throne after Carson announced his retirement. “The Story of Late Night” dives into the tumultuous period that saw Jay Leno and David Letterman vying for the coveted “Tonight Show” spot. This segment of the series is like a thrilling soap opera, complete with backstabbing, public feuds, and a deep dive into the politics of television networks. It’s a testament to how late-night hosting was, and still is, one of the most coveted jobs in show business.
The Evolution of Late Night
Late-night television has undergone significant changes, especially in the last two decades. The series explores how the format has evolved from a single-host setup to a more diverse landscape. The entrance of hosts like Conan O’Brien, Jimmy Fallon, and Stephen Colbert introduced a new era of late-night TV, one that embraced the internet and social media. “The Story of Late Night” examines how these hosts have adapted to changing viewer habits, the role of viral videos, and the shift towards more politically charged content.
The Future of Late Night
What does the future hold for late-night television? This is a question that “The Story of Late Night” attempts to answer in its concluding segments. With the rise of streaming services and the ever-changing media consumption habits, late-night shows are at a crossroads. The series speculates on the potential directions the genre might take, from more intimate, podcast-like formats to shows that fully embrace digital platforms.
Why It Matters
So, why should anyone care about the history of late-night television? For starters, these shows are more than just entertainment; they’re a reflection of society at any given time. They’ve been platforms for political commentary, social change, and have often provided comfort during turbulent times. “The Story of Late Night” does an excellent job of highlighting the cultural significance of these shows, making a compelling case for their place in the annals of American television history.
Conclusion
“The Story of Late Night” is a meticulously crafted docuseries that offers a deep dive into the world of late-night television. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes dynamics of TV show production, the evolution of media, or simply the stories of the personalities who have become nightly fixtures in our lives. Through interviews, archival footage, and expert analysis, the series paints a comprehensive picture of how late-night TV became a beloved American institution. Whether you’re a fan of the classic era or more attuned to the current landscape, there’s something in “The Story of Late Night” for everyone.