The Late Shift
Your Vote:
Be the first to rate.
6.8 IMDB Rating 1,880 Views

The Late Shift

A dramatization of the rivalry between David Letterman and Jay Leno to over which of them would succeed Johnny Carson as the host of "The Tonight Show...". Show More

Details

The Late Shift is a compelling and entertaining film that takes audiences behind the scenes of the fierce rivalry between talk show hosts David Letterman and Jay Leno. Set against the backdrop of the highly coveted position as the host of The Tonight Show, the movie showcases the cutthroat competition and power struggles that ensued as both comedians vied for the ultimate late-night throne.

As Johnny Carson's retirement loomed, Letterman, the chosen successor, seemed destined to take over the iconic show. However, Leno, a popular guest host, was relentless in his pursuit of the coveted role. The film expertly captures the tension and backstabbing that occurred within the network, leading to unexpected twists and betrayals.

Featuring incredible performances from actors like John Michael Higgins as David Letterman and Daniel Roebuck as Jay Leno, the movie skillfully brings to life the personalities and mannerisms of these legendary hosts. The narrative delves into the behind-the-scenes machinations of executives and agents, adding depth to the story and revealing the political minefield that determined the future of late-night television.

The Late Shift offers an insightful and compelling look into the world of television and the drive for success, making it a must-watch for fans of late-night talk shows and those interested in the cutthroat nature of the entertainment industry.

Also Known As:

The Late Shift

Release Date:

24 Feb 1996

Writers:

Bill Carter, George Armitage

Awards:

Nominated for 7 Primetime Emmys. 5 wins & 10 nominations total

People also search for

Finnegan’s Foursome 2026

Two rival brothers and their adult children travel to Ireland to scatter their father's ashes, turning clashing egos and comic mishaps into an unexpected week of family bonding.

Category: Comedy, Drama

Stars: Naoimh Whelton, Edward Burns, Erica Hernandez

4.5 IMDB Rating 27 Views
Voicemails for Isabelle 2026

Jill leaves voice messages to her deceased sister telling her about her chaotic life in San Francisco. Unwittingly, a mysterious Austin real estate agent begins to receive their confessions..

Category: Comedy, Drama, romance, Romantic

Stars: Zoey Deutch, Nick Offerman, Nick Robinson

319 Views
Mr. Church 2016

Unique friendship develops when a girl and her dying mother retain the services of a talented cook - Henry Joseph Church. What begins as a six month arrangement instead spans into fifteen years and creates a family bond that lasts...

Category: Comedy, Drama

Stars: Eddie Murphy, Britt Robertson, Natascha McElhone

7.6 IMDB Rating 6,593 Views
The Greek Aisle 2026

When Georgia travels to the Greek island of Corfu to finalize an inheritance, she unexpectedly discovers that marrying her handsome co-inheritor is the only way to meet the requirements.

Category: Comedy, Drama, romance, Romantic

Stars: Nikki DeLoach, Apostolis Totsikas

7.0 IMDB Rating 262 Views
Lions Love (… and Lies) 1969

Three actors in Hollywood live and love together. A director comes from New York to make a movie about actors and Hollywood.

Category: Comedy, Drama

Stars: Viva, James Rado, Gerome Ragni

5.9 IMDB Rating 143 Views
Karuppu 2026

A lawyer becomes possessed by a deity and battles injustice affecting marginalized communities.

Category: Action, Comedy, Drama, Fantasy

Stars: Suriya, Trisha Krishnan, Prakash Raj

6.5 IMDB Rating 181 Views
A Nashville Legacy 2023

Follows Naima and Damian, as they meet and begin to get close with each other, sharing their love for music and their desire to leave their respective marks on the world.

Category: Comedy, Drama, Romantic

Stars: Andrea Lewis, Pooch Hall, Roz Ryan

6.4 IMDB Rating 1,969 Views
About Last Night 1986

Chicago singles meet in a bar, live together and call it love. Based on David Mamet's play Sexual Perversity in Chicago.

Category: Comedy, Drama, romance, Romantic

Stars: Rob Lowe, Demi Moore, Jim Belushi

6.3 IMDB Rating 234 Views
Guiding Emily 2023

Follows Emily as she struggles to cope with her new reality after losing her sight and Garth, a potential guide dog struggling with his training. With a bit of help both make headway in their important transitions.

Category: Comedy, Drama, romance, Romantic

Stars: Sarah Drew, Antonio Cupo, Eric McCormack

7.8 IMDB Rating 251 Views
As Cool as I Am 2013

A smart teenage girl comes of age in a small town with her self-centered parents who had her when they were teenagers.

Category: Comedy, Drama

Stars: Sarah Bolger, Thomas Mann, James Marsden

5.8 IMDB Rating 159 Views