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The Story of Late Night Season 1 Episodes

Season 1 Episode Guide

Season 1

6 Episodes 2021 - 2021

Episode 1

Inventing Late Night

Sun, May 2, 2021

Steve Allen's zany spontaneity turns Tonight into an unexpected hit, but it's Jack Paar and Johnny Carson that transform late night into an enduring television staple.

Where to Watch
The Story of Late Night, Season 1 Episode 1 image

Episode 2

Carson: King of Late Night

Sun, May 9, 2021

Johnny Carson deftly navigates the turbulent 1960s to elevate The Tonight Show and become the undisputed king of late night.

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The Story of Late Night, Season 1 Episode 2 image

Episode 3

Eyes on the Throne

Sun, May 16, 2021

As the 1980s dawn, David Letterman reinvents late night for a new generation and endless speculation begins on who will be Johnny Carson's eventual successor.

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Episode 4

Letterman V. Leno

Sun, May 23, 2021

Carson's 1992 retirement touches a nation - and touches off an epic late-night war between Jay Leno and David Letterman.

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Episode 5

Making the Headlines

Sun, May 30, 2021

As the 2000s unfold, diverse voices like Chelsea Handler and George Lopez get their seat behind the late-night desk, while Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert take the news into their own hilarious hands.

Where to Watch
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Episode 6

Reinventing Late Night

Sun, Jun 6, 2021

Jimmy Fallon, Stephen Colbert and Trevor Noah follow in Leno, Letterman, and Stewart's footsteps and new hosts James Corden, Seth Meyers, Amber Ruffin, and Desus + Mero confront Donald Trump - and COVID-19.

Where to Watch
The Story of Late Night, Season 1 Episode 6 image