The Story of Late Night Season 1 Episode 5 Late Night Makes The News

In episode 5 of "The Story of Late Night" season 1, titled "Late Night Makes The News," viewers are taken on a journey through the complex relationship between late-night talk shows and the news media.

The episode begins by highlighting the ways in which late-night television has always had a profound impact on current events and vice versa. From Johnny Carson's legendary coverage of the Watergate scandal to David Letterman's famous post-9/11 monologue, the show demonstrates how late-night hosts have frequently used their platforms to comment on and shape the news.

However, the episode also delves into the darker side of this relationship, showcasing the ways in which late-night hosts have occasionally been accused of crossing ethical boundaries in their coverage of news events. For example, the show discusses the controversy surrounding Jay Leno's decision to air an interview with Hugh Grant following his arrest for soliciting a prostitute, as well as the backlash that ensued when Jimmy Kimmel made a joke about then-Vice Presidential candidate Sarah Palin's son, who has Down Syndrome.

Despite these occasional missteps, "Late Night Makes The News" ultimately celebrates the unique and ongoing relationship between late-night television and news media. From roast-style interviews with political figures to viral digital content that aims to set the cultural agenda, the show argues that late-night hosts have always been at the forefront of shaping public discourse and driving conversations about important issues.

Of particular note in this episode is the way in which the show highlights the role late-night television has played in helping to shape contemporary political discourse. From Jon Stewart's decade-long tenure at "The Daily Show" to Stephen Colbert's viral take on the conservative news network, the show demonstrates the immense impact late-night television has had on the political landscape in the United States.

Viewers of "Late Night Makes The News" will leave with a newfound appreciation for the way in which late-night television has become a key part of the cultural and political conversation in America today. From its early beginnings with Johnny Carson to the rise of modern-day hosts like James Corden and Samantha Bee, the show reminds us that the world of late-night TV is continually evolving and shaping the way we think about ourselves and our society.