Ep 12. Late Show: Part 3

Louie is a television comedy series that aired for five seasons from 2010 to 2015 on FX. The show was created and starred famed comedian Louis C.K, who played a semi-fictionalized version of himself. The show was hailed for its unflinching portrayal of life in New York City as well as its willingness to push boundaries in terms of comedy.

Louie season 3 episode 12, titled Late Show: Part 3, is the final episode of a three-part arc that chronicles Louis C.K’s attempt to audition for the role of host of The Late Show with David Letterman. While the first two parts of the arc dealt with Louie’s attempts to win over the executives at CBS, this episode focuses on his actual audition for the gig.

Louie is shown pacing backstage at The Ed Sullivan Theater, anxiously preparing for his big moment. As he waits, he is visited by a parade of familiar faces from the previous two episodes. These include fellow comedians Chris Rock and Jerry Seinfeld, as well as his ex-wife Janet and his agent Doug.

As Louie takes the stage, he is visibly nervous, stumbling slightly as he begins his monologue. However, he quickly gains momentum and delivers a string of jokes that receive hearty applause from the audience. The network executives, who are watching from the wings, look pleased.

Following his monologue, Louie begins a preplanned segment in which he interviews an elderly woman from the audience. This segment is both funny and poignant, as Louie allows the woman’s charming personality to shine through and genuinely connects with her. This segment is a highlight of the episode, and one of the most memorable moments from the entire series.

After the segment ends, Louie returns to the stage for a musical number. He plays a guitar and sings a song that pokes fun at the Late Show and its establishment status within the comedy world. The audience loves it, and the executives are impressed.

The episode concludes with Louie excitedly checking his phone for any news about the audition. As it turns out, he does get the job, and the next scene sees him in a meeting with his new bosses. However, the twist at the end of the episode suggests that things may not be as they seem, and that the road to hosting The Late Show may be rockier than Louie anticipated.

Overall, Late Show: Part 3 is a fitting conclusion to one of Louie’s most ambitious storylines, and a testament to the show’s ability to balance humor and heart in a way few shows can match. It’s a must-watch for anyone who appreciates Louis C.K’s particular brand of comedy, as well as those who enjoy shows that aren’t afraid to take risks.