Meet Byron Allen, the comic-turned-media mogul who’s taking over CBS late night

Byron Allen, a comedian who rose to fame on Johnny Carson’s *The Tonight Show* in 1979 at age 18, is now taking over CBS’s late-night slot with *Comics Unleashed*, a low-cost, politics-free comedy show set to debut in the 11:35 PM time slot previously held by Stephen Colbert. The move marks a shift from CBS’s topical, Trump-era humor to a syndicated-style format focused on quick jokes and minimal controversy, aligning with Allen’s business-first philosophy. Allen’s career began as a stand-up comedian but evolved into a media empire built on syndicated reality shows. In 1993, he founded Entertainment Studios, producing courtroom, comedy, and lifestyle programs sold to local stations for free in exchange for ad revenue. His persistence paid off after years of rejection; he reportedly spent a year calling stations from his dining room table to secure airtime, eventually launching *Entertainers with Byron Allen*, which still airs today. Beyond syndication, Allen has made high-profile acquisitions, including The Weather Channel for $300 million in 2018, and recently bought a controlling stake in BuzzFeed. Despite unsuccessful bids for major networks like Paramount and ABC, he remains a formidable player in media, with ambitions to expand further, including potential interest in acquiring CNN. *Comics Unleashed* follows Allen’s 2006 model of leasing airtime—a “time buy”—where he recoups costs by selling ads. The show avoids political or divisive topics, reflecting Allen’s stance: ‘Just be funny and don’t offend.’ His approach contrasts with traditional late-night comedy, prioritizing accessibility and profitability over controversy. Allen’s journey reflects a rare blend of entertainment and business acumen. From performing on Carson’s show to building a media empire, he has redefined late-night TV with a focus on scalability and minimal risk. The launch of *Comics Unleashed* on CBS signals another chapter in his unconventional rise, blending his comedic roots with a strategic, low-cost media model.