Watch The Story of Late Night

The Story of Late Night is a six-part docuseries that offers an in-depth look at the evolution and impact of late-night television in America. Produced by CNN, the series is hosted by comedian and actor Billy Crystal, who himself made several appearances on late-night television over the years.

The show features interviews with many of the biggest names in late-night, including Jimmy Fallon, Conan O'Brien, Jay Leno, David Letterman, Chelsea Handler, Jon Stewart, Trevor Noah, and many others. Each episode focuses on a different era in the history of late-night, from the early days of Johnny Carson to the current landscape of late-night hosts who use their platforms to comment on current events and politics.

The series explores the many challenges and controversies that have arisen in late-night over the years, including the struggles faced by female comedians and writers, the impact of the infamous "late-night wars" between Leno and Letterman, and the ways in which late-night hosts have navigated the tricky waters of political satire in an increasingly divided country.

Throughout the series, Crystal provides insightful commentary on the many cultural and technological shifts that have shaped late-night television, from the rise of cable TV to the advent of social media. He also draws on his own personal experiences to offer a unique perspective on the world of late-night.

In addition to the interviews and commentary, The Story of Late Night features rarely-seen archival footage of some of the most memorable moments in late-night history, including classic sketches, interviews, and musical performances. The show also takes viewers behind the scenes to explore the inner workings of late-night production, from the writers' rooms to the studios where the magic happens.

Ultimately, The Story of Late Night is a fascinating exploration of a uniquely American institution, one that has played a crucial role in shaping the country's culture and politics for over half a century. Whether you're a die-hard fan of late-night TV or simply interested in the intersection of entertainment and politics, this series is not to be missed.

The Story of Late Night is a series that ran for 1 seasons (6 episodes) between May 2, 2021 and on CNN