Parents' Guide to The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson

TV CBS Comedy 2005
The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson Poster Image

Common Sense Media Review

Melissa Camacho By Melissa Camacho , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 15+

Late-night humor with a Scottish flair; aimed at adults.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 15+?

Any Positive Content?

Parent and Kid Reviews

age 13+

Based on 3 parent reviews

age 13+

Based on 4 kid reviews

What's the Story?

Hosted by Scottish-American comedian Craig Ferguson, THE LATE LATE SHOW WITH CRAIG FERGUSON is a late night talk/comedy show anchored by Ferguson's personable monologues and wacky comedy sketches, many of which are enhanced by puppets and/or computer graphics. Audience members are occasionally invited to participate in the on-stage fun, and interviews with actors, musicians, and other well-known celebs round out the entertainment.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say ( 3 ):
Kids say ( 4 ):

The Late Late Show, which was previously hosted by Tom Snyder and Craig Kilborn, offers the typical lighthearted fare that viewers hve come to expect from late-night entertainment. Ferguson's easygoing manner makes the pacing of the segments seem a bit slower than other late-night comedy programs, and the absence of an in-house band also takes away a little of the show's punch.

Despite these details, Ferguson's observations about life in America, paired with his Scottish charm, make the show fun to watch. His willingness to share very personal details about his life -- including the death of his father, his battle with addiction, and his excitement about becoming an American citizen -- also gives the show a lot of heart. Overall, it may not be the most flamboyant late-night option, but it has successfully found its way into many night owls' hearts.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about what makes a late-night TV talk show successful. Is it the host? The jokes? The guests?

  • How do late-night shows influence other areas of the media?

  • What are the differences between American-style humor and European-style humor? Which do you like better?

TV Details

  • Premiere date : January 3, 2005
  • Cast : Craig Ferguson
  • Network : CBS
  • Genre : Comedy
  • TV rating : TV-14
  • Last updated : October 21, 2022

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The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson Poster Image

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