Late-night television has been captivating audiences for 75 years with its unique blend of humor, interviews, and music. From its debut in 1949 with Faye Emerson on CBS to today’s modern icons, the genre has evolved through the contributions of unforgettable hosts. Using data from YouGov (June 2024), Stacker ranked the 20 most popular late-night hosts based on positive opinions from respondents, focusing on those who led a show airing after 11 p.m. for at least one full season. Here’s a concise look at the standout figures, their impact, and why they remain beloved.
The Birth and Growth of Late-Night
The journey began with Faye Emerson in 1949, hosting a 15-minute CBS variety show that mixed politics and entertainment, featuring guests like Tennessee Williams and military leaders. In 1951, she welcomed Steve Allen, who later pioneered “The Tonight Show” on NBC (1954-1956). Allen set the template—monologue, audience banter, interviews, and music—that still defines late-night today.
Late-Night Titans
Johnny Carson reigns as the most popular host ever. For 30 years (1962-1992), he helmed “The Tonight Show” with sharp wit and a laid-back charm, earning the title “King of Late-Night.” PBS notes he reached more viewers than anyone in U.S. TV history. He passed in 2005, but his legacy endures.
David Letterman, with 33 years on air (over 6,000 episodes across “Late Night” on NBC and “Late Show” on CBS), holds the record for longest late-night tenure. A five-time Emmy winner, his sarcastic edge defined an era. Since 2015, he’s continued with Netflix’s “My Next Guest Needs No Introduction.”
Jay Leno succeeded Carson on “The Tonight Show” (1992-2009, plus 2010-2014), delivering relatable humor and a signature laugh that won over millions.
Innovators and Modern Stars
Jon Stewart redefined “The Daily Show” (1999-2015) with political satire, securing 10 consecutive Emmys. Back in 2024 after a hiatus, his influence persists. Trevor Noah, taking over from 2015-2022, brought a global lens to the show, earning an Emmy in his final year.
Jimmy Fallon refreshed “The Tonight Show” since 2014 with viral sketches and a youthful vibe, following “Late Night” (2009-2014). Jimmy Kimmel, hosting “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” since 2003, is the longest-active late-night host, blending comedy with social commentary.
Conan O’Brien shone with quirky humor on “Late Night” (1993-2009), a short “Tonight Show” stint, and “Conan” (2010-2021), cementing his cult status. James Corden made “The Late Late Show” (2015-2023) a hit with “Carpool Karaoke,” winning five Emmys.
Trailblazers and Unique Voices
Arsenio Hall (1989-1994) broke ground by featuring acts like Public Enemy and tackling topics like HIV/AIDS, ignored by peers. Joan Rivers, with “The Late Show” in the ‘80s, was a rare female voice in a male-dominated field, known for biting wit.
Craig Ferguson (2004-2014) brought spontaneity to “The Late Late Show,” while John Oliver (since 2014) on “Last Week Tonight” mixes humor with deep dives, earning 30 Emmys. Dick Cavett (1960s-70s) offered cerebral interviews that stood apart from the era’s lighter fare.
Lasting Impact and Today’s Scene
Late-night has adapted to digital audiences, with Seth Meyers (“Late Night” since 2014) and Stephen Colbert (“The Late Show” since 2015) keeping the format alive with fresh takes. Others like Sinbad (“Vibe,” 1997) and Mike Wallace (“Night Beat,” 1950s) left shorter but notable marks.
Stacker’s ranking, sourced from YouGov, highlights both popularity and cultural weight. From Carson to Oliver, each host shaped late-night uniquely—through laughs, insight, or innovation. Check the full list and methodology at Stacker.
Late-night mirrors society, and these hosts have captured its spirit. Who’s your favorite? Their influence goes beyond the screen, proving late-night is more than entertainment—it’s a cultural cornerstone.
