Last night, Stephen Colbert kicked off his show by welcoming his band and introducing guest Jennifer Garner. But then he posed a curious question: “You know who isn’t here tonight?”
His answer was unexpected. Colbert revealed that Texas state representative James Talarico was supposed to be a guest but couldn’t come. His network’s lawyers made it clear that Talarico’s appearance was off the table—and even mentioning it was a no-go. So, he decided to delve into the topic anyway.
Colbert discussed new guidance from FCC Chair Brendan Carr about the “equal time” rule. This rule requires broadcasters to give rival political candidates airtime if requested. Traditionally, shows like Colbert’s or “Jimmy Kimmel Live” enjoyed an exemption when covering news. But this new guidance suggests that they can no longer assume that same freedom.
Carr pointed out that certain factors, like possible “partisan motivation,” could determine if a show qualifies for this exemption. He emphasized, “If you’re fake news, you’re not going to qualify.” This places late-night hosts like Colbert and Kimmel in a tricky situation, as they often feature political guests.
Colbert noted the implications of this change. He used humor to navigate the heavy topic, mentioning that both he and Kimmel might have to adapt their shows significantly. Carr even suggested that if they wanted to avoid this requirement, they could switch to cable or streaming.
In a follow-up move, Colbert announced that he would share his full interview with Talarico on YouTube to keep the conversation alive.
This situation reflects a broader trend where media regulations are evolving alongside technology. As people increasingly turn to digital platforms, the lines between news and entertainment continue to blur. Colbert’s decision to post on YouTube highlights how hosts are finding creative ways to engage their audiences outside traditional broadcasting.
According to a 2022 Pew Research survey, about 60% of Americans now get their news from social media, reflecting a shift in how people consume information. As late-night shows navigate these changes, they face fresh challenges, but they also have a unique opportunity to capture and influence the conversation.
For more insights on the evolving media landscape and the impact of these regulatory changes, check out this FCC report.
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