It was announced earlier this year that James Corden will be leaving The Late Late Show next year. While there are many people we would love to see take over the hosting spot here are some Gen-Z-approved picks including Ziwe, Dan Levy, and Mindy Kaling!
James Corden’s adventure as host on The Late Late Show will come to an end in 2023. Of course, Corden’s exit means there’s an opening within the late-night talk show space. So who will be the lucky host?
One could argue that unless it’s a viral clip circulating on the internet, late-night television isn’t necessarily a Gen-Z staple. This open position is a perfect opportunity to integrate an ultramodern host to entice wider audiences. Several ideas have been tossed around for the show’s new era, including a panel of hosts. Here are some Gen-Z-approved picks to replace the beloved James Corden!
Lin Manuel-Miranda
Fellow Broadway baby Lin Manuel-Miranda embodies everything Gen-Z values, AND he’s nearly an EGOT winner. The actor-writer-composer-director-producer (did we miss anything?) has a long list of successes to his name, including the legendary musical Hamilton. Lin’s artistry has revolutionized theatre, music, and entertainment, especially for people of color. His talent and impact are abundant. In the past, Lin has even successfully written for great hosts, such as Neil Patrick Harris and Hugh Jackman.
Ziwe
If CBS REALLY wanted to cater to Gen-Z, they’d call in the riotously comedic Ziwe. She currently hosts the late-night variety show, Ziwe on Showtime. The network expertly analyzes that on their show, Ziwe “challenges America’s discomfort with race, politics & other cultural issues”. Clips from the show commonly circulate online, authenticating Ziwe’s recognition as an internet sensation worthy of a big opportunity such as this one.
Keegan Michael-Key
Half of Key & Peele, Keegan Michael-Key would be sure to impress as host of The Late Late Show. The actor-comedian-writer and his team are capable of creating hilarious content to shake the uniformity of the late-night landscape. Gen-Z loves a pioneer, and Keegan Michael-Key could be just that.
Dan Levy
Dan Levy of the mega-popular Schitt’s Creek is an all-star in the TV league. He even became the first person ever to receive a Primetime Emmy in each of the four major categories in a single year. Levy’s stardom is rounded out by his undeniable charm in interviews and press runs. The actor has proven himself to be both a comedian and a conversationalist in his appearances, equating to a perfect host candidate.
Mindy Kaling
Mindy Kaling has demonstrated herself as a brilliant performer, writer, and producer. Through all of Mindy’s work, including but not limited to The Mindy Project, Never Have I Ever, and The Sex Lives of College Girls, Kaling has introduced innovative stories that establish her notoriety as a strong cultural voice. These qualities aren’t necessarily trademarks of the late-night television sphere and Kaling is capable of shifting that narrative.