Over the decades, talk shows have played a significant role in shaping cultural conversations and addressing once-taboo topics. Since the 1960s, these shows have provided platforms for discussing controversial issues, reaching audiences across America and around the globe.
Today, late-night television often delves into politics, often with a touch of satire. Many beloved talk show hosts from the past are still active in the industry, with some transitioning to hosting podcasts, which have become immensely popular as a modern form of live talk shows. Let’s take a look at what some of your favorite talk TV stars are up to these days!
Jerry Springer (Then)
Reflecting on the “Jerry Springer Show” in the ’90s might not evoke feelings of excitement for most people. After all, the show was notorious for its sensational and often confrontational content, where guests revealed shocking secrets and conflicts often escalated into physical altercations. The audience’s response?
They enthusiastically cheered on the host and goaded the guests as chaos unfolded on stage. And let’s not overlook the crucial role played by the security guards, who tirelessly intervened to quell the frequent fights that erupted during the show.
Jerry Springer (Now)
Jerry Springer hosted his show for decades, from 1991 all the way through June of 2018, when it aired its final episode. Reruns of the show continue to air on the CW and will likely continue for some time. But we sadly lost our favorite reality talk show host in 2023.
The TV star worked as a lawyer for 15 years before landing his starring role as a host. He combined his experience in law and television as a judge on his show: “Judge Jerry.” The show premiered in 2019 and featured Springer settling real civil cases. Jerry Springer sadly passed away in 2023 after a long battle with cancer.
Sally Jessy Raphael (Then)
Sally’s show had a successful run from the early 1980s until 2002, tackling a diverse array of topics ranging from extreme religious beliefs to the struggles of pregnant teens. As with many talk shows, its popularity fluctuated depending on the guests and the day’s theme.
However, Sally herself expressed dissatisfaction with the show’s trajectory in its final years, feeling that it veered too much into tabloid territory. She yearned for more meaningful content and eventually decided to step away from the show. After bidding farewell to daytime TV, fans wondered what the iconic talk show host would pursue next.
Sally Jessy Raphael (Now)
Renowned for her serious gaze and knack for dissecting guests, Sally was not only known for her fiery red hair and ruby glasses. She hosted her own show for nearly 20 years. After its abrupt end in 2002, she took on a radio gig from 2005 to 2008.
In 2010, she appeared as a guest on “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” alongside other prominent talk show personalities. Following her daytime talk show, Sally continued her work in radio, where she hosted a celebrity interview show on LogoTV.com. Additionally, she had a program called “Sally Jessy Rides.”
Montel Williams (Then)
Before rising to prominence in tabloid television during the early 1990s, Montel Williams dedicated 15 years to serving in the US military, with roles in both the Marine Corps and Navy. Nonetheless, Williams undeniably made a significant impact as a trailblazer in the realm of talk show television.
“The Montel Williams Show” premiered in 1991, marking him as the first black man in history to host his own nationally syndicated television program. Following five years on the air, he earned the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Talk Show Host, a distinction for which he received multiple nominations throughout the 1990s and early 2000s.
Montel Williams (Now)
In 2008, Montel Williams bid farewell to his show as its final episode aired. A couple of years later, in 2010, he made a notable appearance on “The Oprah Winfrey Show.” During that same year, he embarked on hosting his own radio program on Air America Media, until the unfortunate closure of the network’s operations.
However, in 2018, he faced a health scare when he was hospitalized after experiencing a stroke. Fortunately, having watched a Dr. Oz show that highlighted the symptoms, he recognized them early and received prompt medical assistance, enabling him to recover successfully. Despite the challenges, Williams remains active in advocating for multiple sclerosis (MS) awareness, a cause close to his heart since his own diagnosis in 1999.
Ricki Lake (Then)
In 1993, Ricki Lake achieved the remarkable feat of becoming the youngest person ever to host her own talk show, which enjoyed a run of over a decade. Throughout its tenure, she delved into a range of common lifestyle issues, addressing topics such as parenting challenges and the experiences of guests navigating their identities within the LGBTQ+ community.
At times, Lake would surprise her audience with lighter fare, such as entertaining contests and games featuring celebrity guests. Following the conclusion of its initial run in 2004, “The Ricki Lake Show,” Lake continued to pursue her career in the entertainment industry. Interestingly, the show experienced a revival in more recent years, marking a return to the spotlight for the host.
Ricki Lake (Now)
In 2011, discussions about reviving “The Ricki Lake Show” began, and by 2012, it returned to the airwaves with a format reminiscent of Oprah Winfrey’s style. Regrettably, the revival failed to garner the same level of success as its 1990s counterpart, leading to its cancellation after just one season. Nevertheless, Lake’s performance on the show earned her the 2013 Emmy Award for Outstanding Talk Show Host.
Beyond her work in talk show television, Lake has ventured into various roles in both television shows and films, including appearances in both the original and remade versions of “Hairspray.” In 2019, she surprised audiences by revealing herself as The Raven on “The Masked Singer,” showcasing her talent through performances disguised under the elaborate costume.
Geraldo Rivera (Then)
From 1987 to 1998, Geraldo Rivera helmed his eponymous show, “Geraldo.” Rivera initially made his mark on television as a reporter and notably became the first man to report on AIDS to the US public via network television. His early career experiences, including his exposure to the mistreatment of patients at Willowbrook State School in Staten Island, contributed to his rising popularity and eventually led to the launch of his own show, which enjoyed an 11-year run.
“Geraldo” welcomed a diverse array of guests, ranging from US senators to convicted criminals. Despite the serious nature of many topics discussed, the show’s penchant for theatrics often resulted in its categorization alongside other sensationalized television programs.
Geraldo Rivera (Now)
Rivera has encountered his fair share of controversy over the years. As a war correspondent, he attracted negative media attention for various incidents. In 2003, he was expelled from Iraq by the military. One reason was his act of drawing a map in the sand to show viewers the exact location of troops.
Reportedly, the commander of the unit he was with instructed him to leave. However, this wasn’t the only questionable action he took on air. In 2001, he described a fire incident to viewers, but it later emerged that he was actually several hundred miles away from the alleged incident when it occurred.
Oprah Winfrey (Then)
Even if you’ve never tuned into “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” chances are you’re familiar with Oprah herself. Her influence extends far beyond her hosting tenure. Spanning from 1986 to 2011, her show featured a diverse array of celebrity interviews and covered a wide range of topics.
Oprah was renowned for her generous audience giveaways, often in the form of cash and gifts. While some stories told on her show left a lasting impression and garnered high ratings, others faded into memory. Even after airing its final first-run episode, the world knew this wouldn’t be the last we’d see of the iconic media mogul.
Oprah Winfrey (Now)
In the same year that her iconic show came to a close, Oprah Winfrey embarked on new and ambitious ventures. One notable endeavor was acquiring her own television channel, the OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network, which was formerly known as the Discovery Health Channel. Additionally, she played a role in co-founding the immensely popular Oxygen network.
In 2018, Oprah made headlines by announcing a collaboration with Apple to develop original programs for their streaming service. Beyond television, the media maven has co-authored five books and maintains an active presence on her website, Oprah.com, which attracts over 70 million views monthly.
Maury Povich (Then)
Maury Povich is renowned for his role as the arbiter of baby daddy and baby mama drama. His ability to deliver life-altering news in just five words—”you are not the father”—has made him a household name. Povich began his career in 1986 on “A Current Affair” before transitioning to his own show in 1991.
While paternity testing remains a staple theme, he also hosts various specials, including the infamous “Are they a man or a woman?” segments, along with shows featuring out-of-control teens. Povich’s swift and dramatic revelations have solidified his status as the ultimate authority in daytime television drama.
Maury Povich (Now)
In March 2020, it was confirmed that Maury Povich’s show would return for the 2021-2022 season. In 2022, Povich revealed his marriage to news anchor Connie Chung since 1984, and they share an adopted son. Additionally, he has daughters from his previous marriage.
References to his long-standing talk series appear in various mainstream media productions, including “South Park,” “How I Met Your Mother,” and “Mad TV.” Povich even made a cameo appearance in a parody skit of his show featured in Madea’s “Big Happy Family.” Beyond television, Povich’s personal life and professional achievements continue to captivate audiences and leave a lasting cultural imprint.
Whoopi Goldberg (Then)
During the ’90s, Whoopi Goldberg emerged as a major star, achieving the distinction of being the highest-paid actress of that era. Her diverse career included roles in the sitcom “Bagdad Café” and numerous films such as “Ghost” and “The Long Walk Home.” In 1996 alone, Goldberg starred in four major movies and garnered multiple awards, including a Golden Globe for “Sister Act” and an Oscar for “The Color Purple.”
Additionally, she ventured into television hosting with “The Whoopi Goldberg Show” in 1992, where she conducted interviews with various celebrities and public figures. Goldberg’s multifaceted talents and achievements solidified her status as a prominent figure in entertainment during the ’90s.
Whoopi Goldberg (Now)
Following the brief run of her initial talk show, Whoopi Goldberg made a triumphant comeback to hosting in 2007 with her debut on “The View.” Throughout her time on the show, she has become known for her occasional controversial remarks, sparking debates and discussions.
Her vocal support for Bill Cosby and Michael Vick attracted widespread attention. In 2022, Goldberg delighted audiences once more by starring in a new musical production of “Sister Act,” this time portraying the iconic role of Deloris Van Cartier. With her diverse range of talents, Whoopi continues to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
Phil Donahue (Then)
“The Phil Donahue Show” premiered in 1967 and enjoyed a remarkable 29-year run on television screens. Filmed primarily at Rockefeller Plaza following its inception in Dayton, Ohio, the show became synonymous with introducing a broad audience to breakdancing and other elements of hip-hop culture. However, in 1996, the show’s final first-run episode aired, as it veered toward a more tabloid-style format.
Following its cancellation, Donahue retired for seven years before resurfacing on MSNBC in July 2002 with a new show, “Donahue.” Unfortunately, the revival was short-lived, as the program was abruptly canceled in 2003. Despite its end, “The Phil Donahue Show” remains a significant chapter in the history of daytime television.
Phil Donahue (Now)
Despite being raised in a Catholic household, Phil Donahue felt compelled to shed light on the mistreatment and cover-ups within the Church, a stance that wasn’t universally popular but drew much-needed attention to the issue. Throughout his extensive television career, Donahue has amassed an impressive collection of accolades, including 20 Emmy Awards.
He received 10 for “The Phil Donahue Show” and another 10 for Outstanding Talk Show Host. Donahue and his wife, Marlo Thomas, are affectionately regarded as “America’s favorite feminist couple.” Together, they authored the book “What Makes a Marriage Last,” reflecting their enduring commitment and advocacy for various social causes.
Rosie O’Donnell (Then)
Rosie O’Donnell, a charismatic and vibrant TV personality, embarked on her remarkable journey in 1996 by creating her own captivating talk show. With her magnetic presence and engaging conversations, the show quickly soared to fame. O’Donnell not only served as the host but also took on the role of producer for all six seasons. Her show explored a wide array of compelling topics, including family dynamics, philanthropic efforts, and significant events or notable individuals.
It gained renown for its lively live band performances and animated discussions about Broadway productions. However, in 2002, O’Donnell made the heartfelt decision to bid farewell to the show, prioritizing cherished moments with her beloved children.
Rosie O’Donnell (Now)
In 2006, Rosie O’Donnell returned to the limelight by joining “The View” as a replacement for Meredith Vieira. Often credited with steering the show towards more serious discussions, she maintained a balance by also engaging in lighter topics with fellow hosts, including food and celebrity gossip. In 2011, she collaborated with Oprah Winfrey, contributing content to her network, OWN, and hosting “The Rosie Show.”
O’Donnell, a television icon, has made appearances in various other shows and films, including “Will & Grace,” “Nip/Tuck,” and “Mom.” More recently, she has been seen in “I Know This Much is True,” “American Gigolo,” and the remake of “A League of Their Own.” Her versatility and enduring presence in the entertainment industry continue to captivate audiences.
Jenny Jones (Then)
The “Jenny Jones Show” debuted in 1991, initially focusing on serious topics akin to traditional talk shows like Oprah’s. However, by 1993, it took a wild turn, featuring celebrity impersonations, unruly teens, paternity tests, and exotic dancers, resulting in a chaotic atmosphere.
In 1995, tragedy struck when a guest passed away just days after revealing a secret crush on the show. Despite media scrutiny, the show continued, and Jenny Jones remained its host until its cancellation in 2003. Throughout its run, the show evolved from its serious roots to embrace sensationalism, leaving a lasting impact on daytime television.
Jenny Jones (Now)
Today, Jenny Jones maintains a lively online presence through her personal website, JennyJones.com. Alongside this platform, she actively manages a cooking-focused YouTube channel, where she shares her culinary expertise. Beyond her digital endeavors, Jones is dedicated to philanthropy and advocates for women’s health.
In 2008, she founded the Jenny’s Heroes program, which supports community members making positive contributions. While her current activities may be somewhat enigmatic, Jones’s passion for making a difference is evident in her diverse ventures.
Jay Leno (Now)
Jay Leno initially appeared on “The Tonight Show” in 1977, coinciding with an uncredited role in the film “Fun with Dick & Jane.” However, it was his return in 1986, substituting for the iconic Johnny Carson, that marked his breakthrough. Initially a guest host, Leno took over permanently in 1992, succeeding Carson.
For an impressive 22 years, he dominated late-night television until his departure in 2014. Leno’s tenure saw him captivating audiences with his wit and charm, solidifying his status as a late-night legend. With his final episode, he gracefully handed the reins to Jimmy Fallon, leaving an enduring legacy on “The Tonight Show” and the late-night talk show landscape as a whole.
Jay Leno (Now)
After his hosting days concluded, Jay Leno didn’t simply recline on a La-Z-Boy; instead, he embarked on a stand-up comedy tour, performing in over 200 venues across North America. His relentless work ethic and dedication to comedy are evident in his extensive tour schedule. Leno’s illustrious career has earned him a multitude of awards, including Primetime Emmys and People’s Choice Awards, showcasing his widespread acclaim and talent.
Despite his accolades, Leno has retreated from the public eye, leading to speculation and intrigue among fans. His sudden disappearance from public life has left many wondering about the enigmatic comedian’s next move, as if he’s engaged in a real-life game of hide-and-seek with his devoted followers.
Joan Rivers (Then)
Joan Rivers, a Brooklyn-born icon, made an unforgettable debut on The Tonight Show in 1965, igniting her remarkable career. Pioneering the way for female hosts, Rivers became the first woman to host her own late-night network talk show, “The Late Show with Joan Rivers.” Her trailblazing efforts cemented her place in history.
Rivers’ journey of success continued as she captivated audiences and garnered accolades. Hosting “The Joan Rivers Show” from 1989 to 1993, she earned a Daytime Emmy, solidifying her status as a daytime sensation. Throughout her illustrious career, Rivers consistently dazzled audiences and left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
Joan Rivers (Now)
During her tenure as a daytime talk show host, Joan Rivers ventured into entrepreneurship by launching a thriving line of jewelry, clothing, and beauty products, which she marketed on QVC. Additionally, she and her daughter Melissa became fixtures on the red carpet, conducting celebrity interviews at major awards shows.
Sadly, Rivers passed away in 2014, leaving behind a legacy cherished by her devoted fans. While Melissa occasionally makes on-screen appearances, such as in 2015’s “Joy,” Joan’s funeral drew a crowd of over 1,500 mourners, including prominent figures like Whoopi Goldberg and other celebrities, highlighting the impact she had on the entertainment industry and beyond.
Howard Stern (Then)
“The Howard Stern Show” launched its wild ride in 1986 and continues to captivate audiences with its outrageous antics to this day. Until 2005, the show aired nationally from the terrestrial radio station WXRK in New York City. However, a radio revolution ensued, leading to Stern’s move to SiriusXM in 2006, where his uncensored brilliance flourished.
Stern’s irreverent humor and boundary-pushing conversations have kept listeners hooked, along with his star-studded guest list. Over his remarkable 30+ years on the airwaves, Stern has effortlessly snagged interviews with A-list celebrities and captivating characters, solidifying his status as a radio icon.
Howard Stern (Now)
Recent controversies have resurfaced incidents from “The Howard Stern Show’s” past, causing a stir. Among them is a 1993 sketch where Stern painted his face black and his use of a racial expletive on an episode of “The View.” Stern addressed the criticisms, acknowledging his evolution since then, stating, “I don’t even know who that guy is sometimes.”
While he’s received offers to return to terrestrial radio, Stern appears content with his current SiriusXM platform. Despite ongoing criticism, Stern remains unapologetically provocative, earning both praise and condemnation for his boundary-pushing style. His willingness to “stir the pot” continues to define his show’s legacy, ensuring that controversy remains a constant companion in Stern’s world.
Stephen Colbert (Then)
Stephen Colbert embarked on his comedic journey in 1998, debuting on Comedy Central with appearances on both “Strangers with Candy” and “The Daily Show.” “Strangers with Candy,” a quirky gem, delighted viewers for 30 hilarious episodes before evolving into a Sundance-screened film. However, Colbert’s true breakthrough came in 2005 when he assumed his most iconic role as the host of “The Colbert Report.”
For a decade, he fearlessly navigated the political landscape, leaving audiences in stitches with his sharp wit. In 2015, Colbert bid farewell to his beloved alter ego and stepped into uncharted territory as the successor to the legendary David Letterman on “The Late Show.” His transition marked a new chapter in late-night television, showcasing Colbert’s versatility and enduring comedic talent.
Stephen Colbert (Now)
Since assuming the helm of “The Late Show,” Stephen Colbert has steered the program into the realm of politics, departing from the more traditional vibe of the Letterman era. Colbert’s deep-seated fascination with political matters is evident, as he has a penchant for delving into all things political. In a surprising twist, Colbert announced his grand plans to run for president in 2008, initiating campaign antics in 2007.
While his presidential aspirations were primarily comedic in nature and not taken seriously, Colbert used his platform to stir up political discussions and create ripples within the political landscape. Despite the humorous undertones, Colbert’s engagement with political topics underscores his commitment to using comedy as a vehicle for social commentary.
Garry Shandling (Then)
Garry Shandling, a comedic virtuoso, captivated audiences with his own talk show extravaganza, “It’s Garry Shandling’s Show.” Additionally, his comedic brilliance shone in “The Larry Sanders Show,” a sitcom that hilariously parodied the late-night television scene. Widely regarded as one of the most influential shows of all time, “The Larry Sanders Show” amassed an impressive 20 major awards, including three Primetime Emmys.
Shandling’s ingenious fusion of wit and parody left audiences in stitches and solidified his esteemed place in the comedy Hall of Fame. His contributions to the comedy landscape continue to be celebrated and appreciated by fans and critics alike.
Garry Shandling (Now)
Despite Garry Shandling’s departure from this world in 2016, his laughter-filled legacy continues to resonate throughout the world of comedy, spanning an impressive four decades. Along his illustrious journey, Shandling earned nominations for two Golden Globes and a remarkable 19 Emmy Awards, solidifying his status as a comedic icon.
Even in the twilight of his career, he made a memorable appearance in the poignant film “Dying Laughing,” leaving a significant mark before his departure. A testament to his enduring impact, the documentary “The Zen Diaries of Garry Shandling” emerged two years after his passing, offering a heartfelt glimpse into the life and legacy of this comedic luminary.
David Letterman (Then)
David Letterman, a legendary figure in the world of talk show television, has delighted audiences for more than three decades with his unique charm. He made his breakthrough in 1982 as the host of “Late Night with David Letterman” on NBC, captivating viewers with his distinctive wit and unconventional humor.
His significant influence on the medium was widely recognized, with TV Guide honoring him as one of the greatest TV stars in history, securing a well-deserved place among the top 50. Additionally, his show earned a remarkable seventh place on TV Guide’s prestigious list of the 50 Greatest TV Shows of All Time.
David Letterman (Now)
David Letterman captivated audiences across an impressive 6,050 episodes before bidding farewell to the late-night stage. In 2014, he shocked fans by announcing his impending retirement, with the following year marking his final bow. Retirement, however, proved to be short-lived. In 2018, Letterman made a triumphant return to screens with a new show on Netflix titled “My Guest Needs No Introduction with David Letterman.”
The grand reunion kicked off with the charismatic former President Barack Obama, setting the stage for a captivating lineup of extraordinary guests to follow. Letterman’s return to the spotlight reaffirmed his enduring appeal and ability to engage audiences with his signature charm and wit.
Marc Maron (Then)
In the illustrious 1990s and 2000s, Marc Maron became a familiar presence on David Letterman’s stage, captivating audiences as a frequent guest. His appearances paved the way for his own ventures in the talk-show realm, including the notable “The Marc Maron Show,” a late-night radio masterpiece based in vibrant Los Angeles.
Embracing a format similar to its contemporaries, Maron seamlessly blended politics and comedy, engaging listeners with his razor-sharp wit and keen observations. With his finger on the pulse of the times, Maron carved out a unique path, leaving a lasting impression on the world of late-night entertainment.
Marc Maron (Now)
In 2009, Maron introduced a twice-weekly podcast titled “WTF with Marc Maron,” recorded from his garage. The show attracted numerous guests from the comedy world, engaging in free-form interviews with the host. “WTF with Marc Maron” garnered acclaim, earning awards such as Best Comedy Podcast at the 2012 Comedy Central Comedy Awards.
Maron’s presence extended beyond podcasting; he appeared in Netflix’s “Glow” from 2017 to 2019. Despite facing personal tragedy with the passing of his girlfriend Lynn Shelton in May 2020, Maron channeled this experience into his recent comedy specials, demonstrating his ability to navigate challenging moments with humor and authenticity.
Craig Ferguson (Then)
Who could overlook the seasoned Scottish-American TV personality, Craig Ferguson? With his mastery of talk show hosting, he left an indelible mark over the years. From 2005 to 2014, Ferguson commanded the late-night stage with his highly acclaimed show on CBS. His journey didn’t end there; he transitioned to hosting the popular game show “Celebrity Name Game,” garnering two Daytime Emmys.
Ferguson’s charm also shone through in charismatic guest appearances on esteemed talk shows hosted by Jay Leno, Conan O’Brien, and the legendary David Letterman. His versatility and charisma have cemented his status as a beloved figure in the world of television.
Craig Ferguson (Now)
Craig Ferguson’s creative pursuits extend beyond the entertainment industry. In 2006, he showcased his literary talents with the publication of his novel “Between the Bridge and the River.” Demonstrating his versatility, Ferguson made a special appearance at the Los Angeles Festival of Books to promote his literary work.
While he may have been less visible on screen in recent years, Ferguson continues to explore various avenues within the media landscape. In 2019, he lent his voice to the character of Gobber in the animated film “How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World.” Prior to that, he delved into voice acting with another animated feature, “Duck Duck Goose,” in the preceding year. Ferguson’s diverse talents and ventures highlight his multifaceted contributions to both literature and film.
Jimmy Fallon (Then)
Jimmy Fallon serves as an inspiration for those who dare to follow their dreams, even if it means deviating from the traditional path. He made a bold decision to drop out of college and relocate to Los Angeles, just a semester shy of graduating, in pursuit of a career in comedy. Initially, Fallon explored acting opportunities and appeared in films like “Almost Famous.”
However, his breakthrough came with his tenure on “SNL,” a platform he aspired to join from the outset of his entertainment journey. Eventually, Fallon transitioned into hosting his own late-night show, a role he continues to embrace to this day, showcasing his enduring presence in the entertainment industry.
Jimmy Fallon (Now)
Jimmy Fallon remains a prominent figure in late-night television, captivating audiences with his charismatic hosting style. In addition to his successful tenure as a talk show host, Fallon has showcased his acting talents in various television shows and films, including “Taxi” and “Get Hard.”
Fans can also look forward to his voice acting skills in the upcoming animated film “Hotel Transylvania 4,” where he will lend his voice to the character of Brian, scheduled for release in 2021. Fallon’s remarkable talent and dedication to his craft have earned him recognition, including two People’s Choice Awards for The Nighttime Talk Show of the Year.
Ellen DeGeneres (Then)
Ellen DeGeneres made her mark on the talk show scene in 2003, captivating audiences with her infectious energy for over two decades. Embracing a refreshingly upbeat approach, Ellen fostered a lighthearted atmosphere on her show, often engaging in lively dances with her enthusiastic studio audiences. This resulted in a delightful blend of entertainment and laughter that became her trademark.
The show’s enduring popularity was evident in its remarkable achievements, including an astonishing 171 Daytime Emmy Award nominations, surpassing even the queen of talk television herself, Oprah Winfrey. Furthermore, Ellen’s show claimed 17 coveted People’s Choice Awards, solidifying its status as a beloved favorite among viewers.
Ellen DeGeneres (Now)
Following controversy surrounding her treatment of employees, Ellen DeGeneres made a significant announcement on May 12, 2021. She revealed that her long-running show would conclude after its 19th season in 2022. However, amidst the challenges, Ellen continues to make a positive impact outside of her television career.
Alongside her wife, Portia, she is an advocate for veganism and the welfare of sentient non-human animals. In 2017, Ellen collaborated with the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust to raise awareness and combat the transportation of animals targeted by trophy hunters. Through her efforts, she strives to bring attention to this issue and work towards ending such practices, demonstrating her commitment to making a difference beyond the entertainment industry.
Dick Cavett (Then)
Dick Cavett’s enduring presence in television is unparalleled, with a remarkable run that began in 1968. Hosting his own show intermittently since then, Cavett has secured an impressive ten Emmy Award nominations, winning three of those coveted golden statuettes.
While he may not have matched the ratings of Johnny Carson, Cavett carved a niche for himself as the embodiment of the “thinking man’s talk show host.” His intellectual charm and engaging conversations left audiences yearning for more, establishing him as a true television stalwart whose influence extends far beyond the screen.
Dick Cavett (Now)
While Dick Cavett is renowned for his iconic interviews, his personal life has also seen its share of love and loss. Previously married to actress Carrie Nye, Cavett found solace in his second wife, author Martha Rogers, with whom he shared a joyful life in their Connecticut home until her passing in 2016.
In early 2020, Cavett made an appearance on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” to discuss his HBO special, “Ali and Cavett: The Tales of the Tapes.” This captivating documentary delves into the remarkable interviews between Cavett and the legendary Muhammad Ali, offering insight into their memorable encounters.