Meaning: The quote by Garry Shandling reflects on the evolution of late-night talk shows and the shift away from the traditional practice of using guest hosts. Shandling, a renowned comedian and actor, observes that unlike in the past when shows like Johnny Carson's "The Tonight Show" frequently utilized guest hosts, contemporary late-night programs have moved away from this practice. He expresses curiosity about this change and implies that it is an underdiscussed aspect of the modern late-night format.

Late-night talk shows have been a staple of television programming for decades, providing a platform for hosts to engage in humorous and insightful conversations with guests from various fields. In the early years of late-night television, it was common for hosts to take occasional breaks, during which guest hosts would step in to fill their roles. Johnny Carson, the iconic host of "The Tonight Show," was known for having guest hosts, allowing him to take time off while ensuring that the show continued to entertain and engage its audience.

The use of guest hosts served multiple purposes. It allowed the regular host to take breaks without interrupting the show's schedule, provided opportunities for other entertainers to showcase their skills, and offered a fresh perspective to the audience. Additionally, it helped maintain continuity and familiarity for viewers, as the show would continue to air even in the absence of the primary host.

However, as the landscape of late-night television has evolved, the practice of using guest hosts has become increasingly rare. Modern late-night hosts, such as Jimmy Fallon, Stephen Colbert, and Jimmy Kimmel, typically do not have guest hosts filling in for them when they are unavailable. This departure from the traditional model raises questions about the reasons behind this shift.

One possible explanation for the decline in guest hosts is the intense focus on building and maintaining the personal brand of the host. In today's media environment, late-night hosts are often viewed as integral to the success and identity of their respective shows. As a result, the absence of the host may be perceived as a disruption to the show's unique appeal and style. By forgoing guest hosts, these shows maintain a consistent and continuous presence of their primary host, reinforcing their individual brand and connection with the audience.

Moreover, the rise of digital media and the 24/7 news cycle has heightened the demand for fresh and original content. Late-night shows are now expected to offer timely commentary on current events and cultural trends, often requiring the host's direct involvement. The absence of the host, even for a brief period, could be seen as a missed opportunity to address unfolding news and engage with the audience in real-time.

Another factor to consider is the changing nature of audience expectations. With the advent of social media and digital platforms, audiences have become accustomed to direct and immediate interactions with their favorite hosts. The absence of the primary host could disrupt this dynamic, potentially leading to a loss of viewer engagement and interaction.

It is also worth noting the unique personalities and styles of modern late-night hosts. Unlike the more formal and structured approach of earlier hosts like Johnny Carson, contemporary hosts often infuse their personalities and comedic sensibilities into every aspect of their shows. This personalized approach may make it more challenging for guest hosts to seamlessly integrate into the established format and connect with the audience in the same way as the regular host.

In conclusion, Garry Shandling's observation about the absence of guest hosts in modern late-night shows raises intriguing questions about the evolution of the genre. The shift away from this traditional practice can be attributed to various factors, including the emphasis on host-centric branding, the demands of a constantly evolving media landscape, and the unique personas of contemporary hosts. While the use of guest hosts may have diminished, the enduring popularity and impact of late-night talk shows continue to captivate audiences worldwide.