Craig Ferguson Leaving CBS's 'Late Late Show', But Will There Be a Replacement?
The oddball affair that was Scotsman Craig Ferguson's "The Late Late Show" is winding down, according to the man himself.
"I've been doing this show for 10 years," he said during the opening monologue of Monday's show. "That's enough."
Ferguson's future plans are currently up in the air, but he does have one profession in mind. "I'm thinking carpentry," he humorously stated. "I haven't made up my mind yet."
He went on to say that the once the fun gig became a job it was time to throw in the towel.
"Ten years is a very long time in one job -- for me," he said during a conversation with Variety. "I wanted to leave the show before I stopped enjoying it. That was my goal. I didn't want it to be a chore. ... The whole idea is that show business should have some adventure to it, I think. It's not about knowing what you're doing day in and day out, year after year."
The monotony of it all was just too much, though Ferguson isn't dour or bitter. He loved his time on the show and was adored by countless fans across the nation. CBS entertainment chairman Nina Tassler was one of Fergie's biggest fans. And that admiration shone through in a written statement that was released shortly after the public announcement was made.
"During his 10 years as host, Craig has elevated CBS to new creative and competitive heights at 12:30," Tassler stated. "He infused the broadcast with tremendous energy, unique comedy, insightful interviews and some of the most heartfelt monologues seen on television."
Ferguson will finish out the year and by that time CBS hopes to find a suitable replacement. However, Time magazine online writer James Poniewozik argues that no one should fill Ferguson's seat at the end of his tenure. He thinks that the declining late night TV audience is a sign that America just doesn't have the time to stay up late anymore, among other reasons.
"I'd be a phony to act too outraged over his departure or worked up over who will replace him. Because truth be told, I admired Ferguson a lot and watched him very little."
Ouch?
Whether or not the show is kept on the air, there's no denying that the late night TV landscape is changing -- and rapidly so. Ferguson's departure comes hot on the heels of David Letterman's retirement announcement earlier this month. Also employed by CBS Letterman has worked the small screen for well over three decades. NBC's Jay Leno, former host of The Tonight Show and Letterman rival, stepped down in Febraury.
So what effect do you think Craig Ferguson's departure will have on the Late Night TV landscape? Will a woman or a minority be tabbed to replace Ferguson? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
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