Julian Shapiro-Barnum, recognized for his social media series “Recess Therapy,” has launched a new venture: an online-only late-night show. Titled “Outside Tonight,” this show is filmed outdoors in the Greenpoint neighborhood of Brooklyn.
Unlike traditional late-night television, which usually airs on broadcast networks or streaming services, full episodes of “Outside Tonight” are available on YouTube. Shapiro-Barnum, a 26-year-old digital native, brings a fresh perspective to the genre, drawing fame from his online presence rather than through connections with established shows like “Saturday Night Live” or “The Daily Show.”
The absence of backing from a media conglomerate and a significantly lower budget set this show apart. While typical late-night shows may exceed $100 million in production costs, “Outside Tonight” operates on a much smaller scale, releasing new episodes weekly.
The show’s format includes familiar elements such as a desk, band, monologue, interviews, musical guests, sketches, and games. Yet, these familiarities are where the similarities with traditional late-night programming end.
“Outside Tonight” aims to revitalize a genre that is facing declining ratings and decreased advertising revenues. Recent developments in the industry include CBS canceling Stephen Colbert’s “Late Show,” citing substantial financial losses, and speculation over the future of ABC’s involvement if Jimmy Kimmel steps down.
In the first episode of “Outside Tonight,” Shapiro-Barnum playfully questions whether his show could save late night. He admits, “Is it cocky to say that ‘Outside Tonight’ is saving late night? Definitely. Is it true? I don’t know. But I know for sure it is fun to say.”
