One of the defining features of Later was its signature opening, which featured a short film clip accompanied by a piece of classical music. The clip would often feature footage from around New York City, where the show was filmed, or a montage of memorable moments from past episodes. The music would then segue into the show’s theme song, a jazzy keyboard riff that became instantly recognizable to viewers.
But it was the interviews that really set Later apart from other talk shows of the time. While many shows focused on sound bites and fluff, Later allowed guests to really open up and share their experiences in a way that was rare for television at the time. Costas was known for his thoughtful questions and ability to put guests at ease, creating an environment where they could speak freely and honestly. Some of the most memorable interviews on Later include Madonna, who revealed that her mother had died just a few months prior, and Johnny Carson, who opened up about his retirement from The Tonight Show.
Another unique aspect of Later was its format. Rather than tape the show in advance, episodes of Later were broadcast live. This gave the show a sense of immediacy and unpredictability, as anything could happen during the course of an interview. There were no commercial breaks during the show, which allowed for more uninterrupted conversations with guests.
Later also had a loyal following among music fans, as the show often featured performances by up-and-coming artists, as well as established musicians. In many ways, Later was ahead of its time in terms of its musical bookings, as artists such as Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Sinead O’Connor all made early appearances on the show. Costas was also known for his eclectic taste in music, often introducing viewers to lesser-known artists that he was passionate about.
Despite its devoted following and critical acclaim, Later only lasted for five seasons. The show was cancelled in 1994, reportedly due to declining ratings and a shift in the late night talk show landscape. However, the legacy of Later lives on, as many of the interviews and performances from the show are still widely discussed and celebrated today.
Looking back on Later now, it’s clear that the show was one of the most influential talk shows of its time. By focusing on deeper, more intimate conversations with guests and eschewing the traditional format of late night talk shows, Later set the stage for a new era of interview shows that followed in its wake. Costas himself went on to become one of the most respected sports journalists in America, and Later remains a beloved and cherished piece of television history.