Byron Allen Takes Over CBS Timeslot With ‘Comics Unleashed’

Television’s late-night landscape shifts as Byron Allen steps into CBS’s evening timeslot, marking a significant moment in his media journey. Allen’s syndicated comedy series, ‘Comics Unleashed,’ will now occupy the 11:35 p.m. ET slot formerly held by ‘The Late Show.’ A seasoned stand-up comic, Allen views this as a strategic expansion opportunity for his growing media empire.

Allen recently acquired a controlling stake in Buzzfeed, a prominent digital platform. His interest in the CBS timeslot predates this acquisition, emerging after Paramount’s decision to remove Stephen Colbert’s show from the lineup. Upon hearing the news, Allen proposed a deal to CBS with a direct question: ‘Do you like money?’ CBS was receptive to Allen’s idea of saving over $110 million by allowing him to lease the hour and manage advertising sales independently.

The arrangement benefits CBS financially while providing Allen with a platform to reach a larger audience. Allen describes himself as a ‘gift from the money gods and the comedy gods,’ reflecting his confidence in this venture.

Allen’s desire for a late-night TV presence dates back to his childhood in Burbank, California. His mother, an NBC employee, brought him to watch Johnny Carson, igniting a passion for comedy. Allen performed on ‘The Tonight Show’ in 1979, reminiscing about the experience: ‘Five minutes to change my life and my mother’s forever.’

Allen transitioned into media ownership with Allen Media Group (Entertainment Studios) in 1993, acquiring networks including Pets.TV and Cars.TV. In 2018, he purchased the Weather Channel’s parent company.

His vision for Buzzfeed involves utilizing user-generated content available on his ad-supported streaming service, Local Now. Allen underscores the appeal of ‘free’ and ‘streaming,’ emphasizing potential synergy.

Future ambitions include owning Starz, a premium cable channel where Allen is the second-largest shareholder. He aims to increase his ownership stake and maintain Starz’s status as a publicly traded company. Past attempts to acquire companies like Tegna and the Washington Commanders have faced challenges, yet Allen remains undeterred.

At 65, Allen’s drive is deeply connected to his mother’s legacy, adding a personal dimension to his business pursuits: ‘All I want to do is make my mama proud.’