In an unexpected twist in the late-night television landscape, Fox News star Greg Gutfeld has surpassed the once-dominant Stephen Colbert in ratings, marking a historic win for conservative-leaning media. Gutfeld, known for his witty, unapologetic humor, has steadily built a loyal following with Gutfeld!, a late-night show that offers a refreshing alternative to the more traditionally liberal late-night programs.
For years, Stephen Colbert, host of The Late Show, dominated the late-night arena with his sharp political humor, primarily aimed at skewering conservatives and taking on President Trump. Colbert’s brand of satire resonated with a broad audience during the Trump presidency, and he maintained a stronghold in late-night ratings. However, as the media landscape evolves and viewer preferences shift, Gutfeld’s rise signals a turning point.
The Rise of Gutfeld!: A Conservative Comedy Success
Launched in April 2021, Gutfeld! immediately stood out from its competitors by offering a different kind of political humor—one that often targets liberal ideologies and embraces conservative viewpoints. While late-night comedy has traditionally leaned left, Gutfeld’s approach appealed to an underserved audience hungry for an alternative voice.
Greg Gutfeld, a co-host on Fox News’ The Five, brought his unique comedic style to the forefront with Gutfeld!, mixing sharp wit with candid discussions on politics, culture, and media bias. Unlike his more liberal counterparts, Gutfeld’s humor often focuses on challenging “woke” culture and political correctness, which has resonated with conservative audiences who feel alienated by mainstream media.
As Gutfeld! gained momentum, it became clear that a growing segment of late-night viewers was looking for comedy that aligned with their values. The show’s success can be attributed to its ability to offer humor without the heavy-handed progressive messaging seen in other late-night programs. Gutfeld’s approach is lighthearted, direct, and in many cases, daring, which has struck a chord with viewers tired of the same old narratives.
Surpassing Stephen Colbert: A Historic Milestone
In 2023, Gutfeld achieved what many believed was impossible—he surpassed Stephen Colbert in the ratings. For years, Colbert’s The Late Show reigned supreme, becoming a platform for liberal political satire that dominated the late-night scene. Colbert’s ability to tap into the frustrations of the left during the Trump era helped him secure his spot as the king of late-night comedy. However, with the political landscape shifting, Gutfeld seized the opportunity to rise to the top.
According to recent Nielsen ratings, Gutfeld! now outpaces Colbert in key demographics, signaling a shift in what viewers are seeking from their late-night entertainment. While Colbert’s audience has remained relatively consistent, Gutfeld’s audience has grown, driven by viewers who feel alienated by the increasing “woke” tone in late-night shows like The Late Show.
Gutfeld’s victory is significant not only because it marks the first time a Fox News star has dominated the late-night category, but also because it challenges the assumption that late-night TV must cater to a liberal audience to succeed.
What’s Behind Gutfeld’s Success?
Several factors contribute to Greg Gutfeld’s unprecedented success. First, Gutfeld’s comedy appeals to a broader range of viewers who may have felt excluded by the overtly political content of other late-night shows. Unlike Colbert, who often crafts his humor for a predominantly progressive audience, Gutfeld’s show doesn’t shy away from poking fun at the left, which has drawn in conservative viewers in droves.
Second, Gutfeld’s show fills a gap in the late-night landscape. While many of his competitors double down on similar themes and jokes, Gutfeld! offers something fresh—comedy that critiques the mainstream media and the political establishment from a different perspective. This refreshing approach has helped Gutfeld gain a competitive edge over Colbert and other late-night hosts.
Additionally, Gutfeld! thrives on the energy of its panel format, where a rotating group of guests—often from a range of backgrounds—engage in lively debates about the day’s top stories. This format provides a dynamic, engaging show that keeps viewers coming back for more.
The Shift in Late-Night Television
Gutfeld’s triumph over Colbert represents more than just a victory for one host—it’s indicative of a larger shift in late-night television. Audiences are no longer looking for comedy that simply reinforces their beliefs. Instead, many are seeking content that challenges the status quo, offers diverse perspectives, and doesn’t shy away from controversial topics.
The rise of Gutfeld also demonstrates the growing appetite for conservative voices in entertainment. As the political and cultural divide in the U.S. widens, it’s becoming clear that there is a substantial audience for conservative comedy—an audience that has been underserved for years. By filling this void, Gutfeld has been able to tap into a powerful cultural moment and reshape the late-night landscape.
What’s Next for Greg Gutfeld?
As Greg Gutfeld continues to dominate late-night television, the future looks bright for Gutfeld! and its host. With his distinct brand of humor and commentary, Gutfeld has proven that there is a significant market for conservative-leaning entertainment. His rise marks the beginning of a new era in late-night television, where diversity of thought and political perspective can thrive.
Gutfeld’s success also poses a challenge to other late-night hosts who may need to rethink their approach to remain competitive in an evolving media environment. As more viewers turn to Gutfeld for his refreshing take on politics and culture, other shows may find it necessary to adapt and broaden their appeal beyond the traditional liberal narrative.
In conclusion, Greg Gutfeld’s triumph over Stephen Colbert is a monumental moment in the history of late-night television. His ability to challenge the dominance of left-leaning comedy while offering a unique, conservative perspective has earned him a dedicated fanbase and cemented his place as a major player in the late-night space. As Gutfeld continues to rise, it’s clear that he’s here to stay, and his victory signals a new era in the world of late-night entertainment.
