Julian Shapiro-Barnum, known for his social media series “Recess Therapy,” has introduced a new late-night show titled “Outside Tonight.” Unlike traditional formats, this show is exclusively online and available on YouTube.
The structure of “Outside Tonight” includes familiar late-night elements like a desk, a band, and an opening monologue. It also features interviews, musical guests, sketches, and games. However, there are significant differences in its approach.
The show is not tied to a broadcast network or streaming service like Netflix. It is hosted by a 26-year-old who gained fame through the internet rather than through mainstream platforms like “Saturday Night Live” or “The Daily Show.”
Without backing from a major media company, the production operates on a modest budget compared to traditional late-night shows, which often cost over $100 million. Filmed outdoors, as the name indicates, new episodes are released weekly.
The host and creator, Shapiro-Barnum, sees these contrasts as a chance to revive a genre struggling with dwindling ratings and declining advertising revenue. Many late-night series have been canceled across various platforms, including CBS, which left the late-night space after cutting Stephen Colbert’s “Late Show” due to financial losses amounting to $40 million last year.
Julian Shapiro-Barnum expressed ambition in the premiere episode’s opening monologue, humorously questioning if “Outside Tonight” is saving late-night television. While unsure of that claim, he confidently stated it is enjoyable to suggest.