Byron Allen Makes a Splash in CBS Late-Night with “Comics Unleashed”
Byron Allen is set to return to CBS Network’s late-night lineup with the much-anticipated back-to-back airings of “Comics Unleashed with Byron Allen” tonight, September 22, at 12:37 a.m., right after “The Late Show” with Stephen Colbert. This move marks a significant return for Allen, who not only has a longstanding presence in the world of comedy but also holds a groundbreaking position as the first African American male late-night host on broadcast network television.
A Celebration of Comedy
“Comics Unleashed” is more than just a talk show; it’s a platform that showcases a diverse array of comedic talent in a roundtable discussion format. Since its launch in 2006, the show has featured an impressive roster of over 550 individual comedians, making it a notable vehicle for comedic expression. The series is designed to unite comedy’s best, reflecting Byron Allen’s immense passion for humor. As Allen himself states, “This world can never have enough laughter. I created this show so that the best comedians can all come together and help bring non-stop laughter.”
Transition from “After Midnight”
The show will take over the time slot previously occupied by “After Midnight with Taylor Tomlinson.” Tomlinson exited to focus more on her stand-up comedy career, relinquishing her spot to one of the titans of the industry, Byron Allen. This shift signifies CBS’s ongoing commitment to fostering comedic talent and extending the late-night viewing experience.
Byron Allen: A Comedy Pioneer
Allen’s journey in comedy began as a teenager in 1975, and he made history in 1979 when, at just 18 years old, he became the youngest comedian to perform on NBC’s “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.” From those humble beginnings, his career flourished, leading to the debut of his own syndicated show, “The Byron Allen Show,” in 1989. Beyond comedy, Allen transformed his career into a robust business empire, showcasing his adaptability and visionary mentality within the entertainment industry.
Expanding His Influence
In 2018, Allen made headlines by acquiring The Weather Channel, solidifying his status as a media mogul. His ambition continued with the purchase of HBCU Go in 2021, making him the first businessman to globally syndicate Black college sports for television. This strategic move emphasizes Allen’s commitment to uplifting underrepresented voices and narratives within the media.
Upcoming Episodes and Guest Lineup
This season, Allen Media Group plans to produce over 130 brand new episodes of “Comics Unleashed” for the 2025-2026 television season. The first week’s lineup promises a rich blend of fresh content alongside beloved archived episodes. Here’s a glimpse at the exciting schedule:
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Monday, September 22
- NEW: Orlando Leyba; Caroline Rhea; Finesse Mitchell; Jamie Kennedy
- Archived: Keith Alberstadt; Pete Lee; Arnez J; Laurie Kilmartin
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Tuesday, September 23
- NEW: Helen Hong; Brad Williams; Jay Mohr; Ron G
- Archived: Arnez J; Patrick Keane; Steve Treviño; Cory Kahaney
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Wednesday, September 24
- NEW: Jeff Dye; Erica Rhodes; Mike E. Winfield; Adam Ferrara
- Archived: Cory Kahaney; Harland Williams; Mike Vecchione; Karlous Miller
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Thursday, September 25
- NEW: Jiaoying Summers; Mark Ellis; Bill Engvall; Owen Smith
- Archived: Mike Vecchione; John Roy; Tony Baker; Jodi Miller
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Friday, September 26
- Archived: Orlando Leyba; Caroline Rhea; Finesse Mitchell; Jamie Kennedy (original air date: 9/22/25)
- Archived: Ant; Andrew Norelli; Al Jackson; Sarah Colonna
Each episode will air on CBS and will also be available to stream live on Paramount+, ensuring that viewers can enjoy the laughter-filled moments anytime they wish.
The Legacy of Laughter
Byron Allen’s return to late-night television with “Comics Unleashed” is not merely a revival of a beloved show; it is a testament to his enduring legacy in the world of comedy and media. His commitment to showcasing talent from various backgrounds while promoting a culture of laughter continues to resonate with audiences. This season promises to be filled with dynamic conversations and infectious humor, reminding us all of the power of laughter in our lives.