Is Greg Gutfeld the Best Late Night Comedian in the United States?
A Ratings Success Story
Greg Gutfeld has certainly made a name for himself in the late night comedy landscape, consistently reigning supreme in ratings compared to established players like Jimmy Kimmel and his Comedy Central counterpart Stephen Colbert.
According to Nielsen ratings, Gutfeld's show, "The Five,"which airs at 11 PM, has been challenging and sometimes outpacing major competitors like "The Tonight Show" with its earlier 11:35 PM window. This competitive edge is believed to stem from his unique positioning on Fox News, a network known for its strong prime-time lineup.
Why Does He Beat the Competition?
Timing and Prime-Time Appeal
The primary factor behind Gutfeld's success is the timing of his show. By starting his program an hour earlier, at 11 PM, he benefits from a more coveted viewership demographic compared to those starting at 11:35 PM. Additionally, the late-night competition typically begins their shows more than a half hour after the start of "The Five," allowing Gutfeld to maintain a steady flow of viewers.
The Cable News Angle
Another key ingredient in Gutfeld's success is his close association with cable news. His show not only offers topical commentary and parodies but also caters to a more conservative audience, making it a go-to for those who follow Fox News prime-time lineup. Gutfeld's ability to leverage this demographic has contributed to his show's sustained popularity.
Inside the First Night: An Unusual Show
The first night of "The Five"'s broadcast was notably bizarre, with Gutfeld providing some of the most memorable moments in late-night comedy. At the top of his show, he began with the following statement:
"I'm as giddy as Kamala Harris explaining kids in cages,” Gutfeld told viewers. “Or Woody Allen hearing about kids in cages."
This joke, which references a controversial issue, set the tone for the evening. From there, the show delved into unique parodies that poked fun at mainstream media. For instance:
A "report" from Brian Williams of MSNBC on the surface of Mars, referencing a six-year-old media scandal.
Poorly executed mock-CNN panel, with two white individuals accusing each other of racism.
Is He the Best? Is Show Business Fair?
A Mixed Record
While Gutfeld's show boasts strong ratings, it's not without its critics. Some argue that his success is due more to his timing and the conservative Fox News bias than his stand-up skills. According to show business experts, Gutfeld's jokes often rely heavily on shock value and political satire rather than genuine comedic talent.
The Self-Admiration Paradox
Gutfeld also faces criticism for being overly self-assured. Some argue that his boasts and self-aggrandizement detract from the humor and the overall quality of the show. However, despite these criticisms, many acknowledge that Gutfeld remains more popular and successful than his late-night counterparts.
The Conclusion
Show business, as it often is, isn't exactly fair. But it is no secret that Greg Gutfeld's late-night antics have garnered him a loyal viewership and sustained success. Whether he's the best comedian in the US or simply the one with the most effective strategy, only time will tell. As viewers continue to watch and appreciate the unique brand of humor provided by "The Five," the debate over Gutfeld's late-night comedy prowess is likely to continue.