The "Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson" is apparently scheduled to "go" to HD broadcasts in late August on CBS.

Sounds good! Watch for it!

About time.... :D

(Hi, I'm new here. Glad to be here!)

That's awesome news, if it's true. I'm just curious, but, where did you hear this news? Is it concrete information?

The "Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson" is apparently scheduled to "go" to HD broadcasts in late August on CBS.

Sounds good! Watch for it!

About time.... :D

Hell ya. I tuned into him last night thinking, he's still on in SD? I dont know cbs so long with the other networks doing their late night shows in HD. Even Jimmy Kimmel is in HD. I suspect now that Lettermen is up in the rateings, they have finally taken a look at Craig Ferguson to see what he's doing.

Won't CBS have to buy him new cameras for that, rather than him having to continue to use their 20-year-old leftovers?

Won't CBS have to buy him new cameras for that, rather than him having to continue to use their 20-year-old leftovers?That show has been using Sony HD cameras for some time now. In fact, all stages in that facility use Sony HD cameras. What needs to be updated is the rest of the video infrastructure. It was their earliest digital SD studio using composite 4fsc & D2 tape, and it's the only one to use that format.

Question mark added to topic title.

And the source for this is?

The "Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson" is apparently scheduled to "go" to HD broadcasts in late August on CBS.

Sounds good! Watch for it!

About time.... :D

Checking with my sources.

That show has been using Sony HD cameras for some time now. In fact, all stages in that facility use Sony HD cameras. What needs to be updated is the rest of the video infrastructure. It was their earliest digital SD studio using composite 4fsc & D2 tape, and it's the only one to use that format.
So, when he "broke the camera" several weeks back, and joked about the age of the cameras, etc., that was one of the newer Sony HD cams?

So, when he "broke the camera" several weeks back, and joked about the age of the cameras, etc., that was one of the newer Sony HD cams?They are Sony HDC 900 & 950 series HD cameras that are a few years old.

It's about time. I hope Craig goes HD before that hack Carson Daly.

That show is even more of a trainwreck. Now they are broadcasting in windowbox format, on the HD channel!

If Ferguson is going to get a shot at being Letterman's successor, CBS is going to have to give him the budget to run a real show for the next three years. I really doubt CBS would promote him to 11:35 if all he does until 2012 is just a low budget British variety show where the host reads emails for 8 minutes every night and likes to open his show with singing animal puppets.

He's going to need a real set and a house band. If people think Conan's brand of comedy can't work at 11:35...

If Ferguson is going to get a shot at being Letterman's successor, CBS is going to have to give him the budget to run a real show for the next three years. I really doubt CBS would promote him to 11:35 if all he does until 2012 is just a low budget British variety show where the host reads emails for 8 minutes every night and likes to open his show with singing animal puppets.

He's going to need a real set and a house band. If people think Conan's brand of comedy can't work at 11:35...

Part of the reason I like Ferguson is because his show has this low-budget feel to it. It does feel as if he does whatever the hell he wants to, and the puppets are awesome (lol@them blurring the puppet mouth when it was cussing the other night). But that's only part of it. Even with a new set, he'd still have the best monologue around and his interviews would still have that off-the-cuff feeling to them.

Puppets + Grand Master Flash? What's not to like: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qYyy1VUFav0

That show has been using Sony HD cameras for some time now. In fact, all stages in that facility use Sony HD cameras. What needs to be updated is the rest of the video infrastructure. It was their earliest digital SD studio using composite 4fsc & D2 tape, and it's the only one to use that format.

Did people build 4fsc composite digital studios in the US? If they did I'm amazed they've managed to keep one running this long. AIUI Grass Valley gave up on trying to build/sell a 4fsc PAL digital composite mixer - so we went straight from PAL analogue to BT601 SDI digital component.

The BBC did switch from 1" C format to D3 1/2" 4fsc Digital Composite in 1992 (in time for the Barcelona Olympics) - but that was mainly still feeding / recording analogue composite galleries, or BT601 SDI component galleries working into composite recording areas until the 16:9 switch was thrown in 1998 and Digital Betacam (first used in anger in 1994 at Lillehammer ISTR) was the format of choice. (For years the BBC ran a straight D3 = 4:3, DigiBeta = 16:9 policy)

Over here D2 was really restricted to station automation and advertising playout functionality ISTR. Ironically the BBC transferred most of their 2" QUAD PAL analogue archive to D3 - which itself is now majorly obsolete. (Luckily they also - latterly - recorded a TRANSFORM decoded DigiBeta version - and now they are archiving 1" C Format are also recording an uncompressed - 10 bit I think - data version via TRANSFORM as well)

Did people build 4fsc composite digital studios in the US? If they did I'm amazed they've managed to keep one running this long. AIUI Grass Valley gave up on trying to build/sell a 4fsc PAL digital composite mixer - so we went straight from PAL analogue to BT601 SDI digital component.

The BBC did switch from 1" C format to D3 1/2" 4fsc Digital Composite in 1992 (in time for the Barcelona Olympics) - but that was mainly still feeding / recording analogue composite galleries, or BT601 SDI component galleries working into composite recording areas until the 16:9 switch was thrown in 1998 and Digital Betacam (first used in anger in 1994 at Lillehammer ISTR) was the format of choice. (For years the BBC ran a straight D3 = 4:3, DigiBeta = 16:9 policy)

Over here D2 was really restricted to station automation and advertising playout functionality ISTR. Ironically the BBC transferred most of their 2" QUAD PAL analogue archive to D3 - which itself is now majorly obsolete. (Luckily they also - latterly - recorded a TRANSFORM decoded DigiBeta version - and now they are archiving 1" C Format are also recording an uncompressed - 10 bit I think - data version via TRANSFORM as well)

Tell me something I DON'T know.

I think you can remove the question mark that was placed in my title. I was in the studio audience last night (taping 7/8 for 7/9) and Craig informally announced that the LLS was taping ahead for August so that the studio (probably studio infrastructure) could be changed over to HD and not miss shows.

No joke. :cool:

And the source for this is?

Craig Ferguson off camera.

So, when he "broke the camera" several weeks back, and joked about the age of the cameras, etc., that was one of the newer Sony HD cams?

What he broke was the teleprompter mirror. The camera itself was fine.

What he broke was the teleprompter mirror. The camera itself was fine.
Yeah, it was just a joke - like Craig's jokes, of course. He did milk that incident for a LONG time though. Come to think of it, that's the sort of thing he does every night!...;)

I admit I don't know much about studio/pro cameras. Are they full 1080p capable, etc?

I admit I don't know much about studio/pro cameras. Are they full 1080p capable, etc?

The Sony ones CBS uses are. But given that 1080p requires a more complicated setup, I don't know how much they'd use it internally.

Over here D2 was really restricted to station automation and advertising playout functionality ISTR. Ironically the BBC transferred most of their 2" QUAD PAL analogue archive to D3 - which itself is now majorly obsolete. (Luckily they also - latterly - recorded a TRANSFORM decoded DigiBeta version - and now they are archiving 1" C Format are also recording an uncompressed - 10 bit I think - data version via TRANSFORM as well)

Now you're getting into your specific experiences, right? Weren't you actually involved in that 2" to D3 transfer project (mostly WHO)? When you say "latterly", is that to say that there were some 2" that did not get recorded to Digibeta?

I know, I know... all OT. I'll shut up now...:)

Now you're getting into your specific experiences, right?


Not specific experiences. I don't work in archival. However I started working in the industry in the days of 1" and Betacam SP (with D1 3/4" digital component at the high end). I saw the adoption of D3 1/2" digital composite, and D2 3/4" digital composite - and the brief suggestion that 4fsc digital composite studio infrastructure might be a way forward. However digital component SDI overtook digital composite - and I'm not sure 4fsc was ever used for anything other than VTRs in PAL-land. (It was very useful for cloning)


Weren't you actually involved in that 2" to D3 transfer project (mostly WHO)?


Not me. I've never worked in archive transfers - but I am sort of across the BBC archive policy.

Initially 2" Quad was transferred just to D3 1/2" digital composite - accompanied by viewing copies on various formats (initially VCD and VHS). Then TRANSFORM decoding to DigiBeta was added to the transfer process - so both a D3 and a DigiBeta copy were created. Now we're into the 1" archive transfer process I think that the BBC has dropped the D3 dub (as D3 machines are quite tricky to keep running now - and there will need to be a D3 archival project soon) and instead do TRANSFORM copies to DigiBeta (2:1 compressed) and an uncompressed MXF wrapped component recording to LTO data tape.

The TRANSFORM decoder is mathematically reversible, so if a better composite decoding process is developed it will be possible to reverse TRANSFORM encode and then decode with the newer process. However TRANSFORM is very, very good.


When you say "latterly", is that to say that there were some 2" that did not get recorded to Digibeta?


Yep - AIUI quite a lot were archived to D3 1/2" composite digital only. I think the DigiBeta copies may only have been introduced when TRANSFORM decoding was possible. (I may be wrong though)

I admit I don't know much about studio/pro cameras. Are they full 1080p capable, etc?'Full 1080p' is marketing spin. No one broadcasts in 1080p. Only Blu-ray, a few select video games and a few select PPV movies from Dish or DirecTV are 1080p.

CBS is a 1080i network.

'Full 1080p' is marketing spin. No one broadcasts in 1080p. Only Blu-ray, a few select video games and a few select PPV movies from Dish or DirecTV are 1080p.

CBS is a 1080i network.

That is true. However most new broadcast studio and outside broadcast facilities are now built using the new "3G" (aka 3Gbs) HD-SDI infrastructure that has the capability of carrying 1080/50p and 1080/60p content (not just the 720/50&60p, 1080/50&60i and 1080/24-30p content that 1.5Gbs original HD-SDI could carry)

The current high-end cameras being installed - like the Sony HDC1500s and the ThomsonGrassValleyPhilips LDK 8000s (I think) - have 1080/50p and 1080/60p output at their camera heads, and new CCU and cable tech means that this will also be available on the CCU outputs.

Similarly vision mixers with 1080/50p and 1080/60p capability are imminent (if not here already)

It WILL soon be possible for studios and OB facilities to work entirely in 50Hz or 60Hz 1080p (it's been possible to work in 24-30Hz 1080p in some existing trucks for a number of years - as is the case with some music concert productions)

Of course there is no current means of getting this 1080/50p or 1080/60p signal from the studio and OB to a domestic TV yet - as the main network HD infrastructure is still 1080i or 720p - and there are no current adopted mainstream broadcast standards for 1080/50p or 60p broadcast.

HOWEVER if you build a studio to last 10 years or so - then you'd be foolish not to consider what might be round the corner. A lot can change in content distribution in that time.

I know that the new BSkyB (aka Sky) studio complex due to open in 2011 in West London has been specified to be 3G HD-SDI capable, and I believe they are ensuring that their OB contracts include a clause that can mean that suppliers have to allow for 3G 1080/50p production at some point. (Sky are also pushing ahead with 3D production tests - and 3G also allows 2 x 1080/50i signals to be routed down a single feed as well - so there are other reasons other than 1080/50p production to mean 3G infrastructure is sensible)

The new OB trucks used by the BBC for Wimbledon this year - OB3 and OB7 - are 3G HD-SDI equipped AIUI. (Though they currently run in 1080/50i - their cabling and routing infrastructure is 1080/50p ready)

I, for one, will be happy to see this happen. I love his brand of absurd humor (puppets, etc.), but the 4:3 SD bugs me.

Hell ya. I tuned into him last night thinking, he's still on in SD? I dont know cbs so long with the other networks doing their late night shows in HD. Even Jimmy Kimmel is in HD. I suspect now that Lettermen is up in the rateings, they have finally taken a look at Craig Ferguson to see what he's doing.

Well, the CBS Morning Show is still in SD despite the show having discussions of the digital transition.

'Full 1080p' is marketing spin. No one broadcasts in 1080p. Only Blu-ray, a few select video games and a few select PPV movies from Dish or DirecTV are 1080p.

CBS is a 1080i network.Those are 1080/24P. As has been mentioned in the past, it's possible to inverse telecine 1080/60i to 1080/24P with reverse 2/3 pulldown. IMO it's a major advantage that 1080i networks have over 720P. For Blu-ray and providers, the primary benefit of 24P distribution is improved encoding for both efficiency and the 4:2:0 color.

As sneals2000 was discussing, 1080/50P and 60P require either dual link 1.5Gbs or single link 3Gbs. Sony demonstrated dual link 1080/60P at NAB a few years ago on the 1500s. This is still at 4:2:2 color resolution, so I guess for full 4:4:4 one would need dual link 3Gbs (the second could be 1.5Gbs) or a single 4.5Gbs which I don't think is a standard.

The advantages are more than market spin. It would combine the advantages of 1080i and 720P. Sports would benefit from improved slo-mo. Production would be more future proofed and improved 50/60 hz conversions could result. However with 4K being used more for 24P production I wonder how soon 4K @ 50P or 60P might appear.

As for this show going HD, as the OP said it's about time. This will be the sixth late night show to go HD. The last SD one is "Last Call with Carson Daly". I wonder if there will be any calls in these forums for it to go HD. If it does, would there even be a thread created for it?

I, for one, will be happy to see this happen. I love his brand of absurd humor (puppets, etc.), but the 4:3 SD bugs me.

Yep ... those opening "musical numbers" could well be the most entertaining 2-3 minutes on TV.

Well, the CBS Morning Show is still in SD despite the show having discussions of the digital transition.

I'm just curious what you mean by that as there is really no connection between the digital transition and HD TV...

Checking with my sources.



Ken...

Any confirmation from your "sources"?

:D

I'm just curious what you mean by that as there is really no connection between the digital transition and HD TV...

Right, not a direct correlation, but the discussion is about advancement in television technology, with HD being the ultimate in digital transmission. That's all I meant.

The last SD one is "Last Call with Carson Daly". I wonder if there will be any calls in these forums for it to go HD.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1131182&highlight=carson

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1012406&highlight=carson

My guess is, like Access Hollywood, Last Call will continue to air in SD so long as they are produced from Burbank until new facilities at Universal City are complete. The only reason Ellen, a former resident of the Burbank facility, went HD was because Warner moved it out of NBC Studios to a Warner facility.

Universal City is mostly still a work in progress. I'm fairly certain I've read before that Conan was the only tenant scheduled to move in 2009. Access Hollywood and everyone else wouldn't make the move until 2010 or later. That means Last Call (and Access Hollywood) still have a long ways to go.

Question mark was removed from the thread title... does this mean its a yes ?

Yes, I'm curious as well that the question mark has been removed. Does that mean it's officially confirmed Ferguson is going high-def?

Yes, I'm curious as well that the question mark has been removed. Does that mean it's officially confirmed Ferguson is going high-def?

I think you'll be pleasantly surprised in mid-to-late August or early September. :D

If Ferguson's in HD, then literally everything on TV has gone HD. All remaining SD programs are officially shamed.

I think you'll be pleasantly surprised in mid-to-late August or early September. :D

Hooray! It's about time, because I personally think it's LONG overdue. Late Show with David Letterman (the show that precedes Ferguson, in case someone doesn't know) has been high-def since 2005 (which coincidentally was Ferguson's first full year of hosting The Late Late Show). I'm finally happy CBS is paying some attention to Ferguson, which he deserves. :)

It's a great day for America, everybody.

It's a great day for America, everybody.

Truly.

It's a great day for America, everybody!


:cool:

It's a great day for America, everybody.

"I know!"

Last night's show (actually, this morning, 7/21) was a tour de force.

Superb treatment of the anniversary of the lunar landing.

Highlights once again that HD has been too long coming to the "Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson".

Reportedly now, the date will be August 31.

That will be announced tomorrow at the Television Critics Association Summer Tour in Pasadena CA.

http://www.thrfeed.com/2009/08/ferguson-gets-hd-upgrade-guiding-spot-filled.html

Craig Ferguson's "Late Late Show" is getting a high-def upgrade. The show will be broadcast in HD for the first time starting Aug. 31.


I'm delighted, it's the only show I make it a point to watch. He's intelligent, funny, and a great interviewer. Now we'll be able to see him, too! Imagine... The studio lighting is so murky sometimes he literally fades into the floor.

His studio set looks like crap in SD. Will it look worse in HD?

THIS JUST IN... from CBS Entertainment... CBS's "THE LATE LATE SHOW with CRAIG FERGUSON," TO BROADCAST IN HD STARTING MONDAY, AUG. 31

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 3 - Starting on Monday, Aug. 31, CBS will begin broadcasting THE LATE LATE SHOW with CRAIG FERGUSON in high definition. That evening will also mark the debut of a new show opener, featuring Craig Ferguson in several iconic Los Angeles locations, scored to an updated version of the current show theme song. THE LATE LATE SHOW with CRAIG FERGUSON airs weeknights (12:37-1:37 AM, ET/PT) following broadcasts of the "Late Show with David Letterman" on CBS. THE LATE LATE SHOW is executive produced by Peter Lassally.

http://www.cbspressexpress.com/div.php/cbs_network/release?id=22377

THIS JUST IN... from CBS Entertainment... CBS's "THE LATE LATE SHOW with CRAIG FERGUSON," TO BROADCAST IN HD STARTING MONDAY, AUG. 31

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 3 - Starting on Monday, Aug. 31, CBS will begin broadcasting THE LATE LATE SHOW with CRAIG FERGUSON in high definition. That evening will also mark the debut of a new show opener, featuring Craig Ferguson in several iconic Los Angeles locations, scored to an updated version of the current show theme song. THE LATE LATE SHOW with CRAIG FERGUSON airs weeknights (12:37-1:37 AM, ET/PT) following broadcasts of the "Late Show with David Letterman" on CBS. THE LATE LATE SHOW is executive produced by Peter Lassally.

http://www.cbspressexpress.com/div.php/cbs_network/release?id=22377

They better not change the theme song too much. It's one of the most important parts of the show. Plus its one of my favorite TV themes.

They better not change the theme song too much. It's one of the most important parts of the show. Plus its one of my favorite TV themes.

Since Craig wrote and performed the theme tune I think whatever they changed it to will have his approval.

He probably had to update it himself because CBS wouldn't pay for it. :D

So is he finally going to get a house band? The Aug. 31 broadcast should make it fairly clear whether CBS is seriously considering Ferguson to take over the Late Show in 2012.

About time. He's my favorite late night host. Plus, Aquaman in HD!:cool:


http://www.thedailytube.com/videoimage/6365/290x215-aquaman-still-thinks-your-son-is-gay.jpg

So is he finally going to get a house band? The Aug. 31 broadcast should make it fairly clear whether CBS is seriously considering Ferguson to take over the Late Show in 2012.

Haven't heard anything about a "house" band. I doubt that would happen.
If it did, C-F would need a new studio; there's simnply not enough room on the present set.... :D

Good news, I'm guessing they received emails about it in the past because Craig has said a couple times in the past how the show would never go HD because CBS is too cheap.

Part of the reason I like Ferguson is because his show has this low-budget feel to it. It does feel as if he does whatever the hell he wants to, and the puppets are awesome (lol@them blurring the puppet mouth when it was cussing the other night). But that's only part of it. Even with a new set, he'd still have the best monologue around and his interviews would still have that off-the-cuff feeling to them.

Puppets + Grand Master Flash? What's not to like: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qYyy1VUFav0

Whenever I hear the I'm Yours song I think of this now http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9-synov6gKU

Ferguson announced on the show tonight that they are going HD on August 31. In his own brand of humor, of course.

So, getting ready for this..... here's my question: When trying to record to DVD-recorder, d'ya think it would it be better to record via OTA antenna to converter box (Zenith) to DVD recorder, or through digital comcast cable box (since this is a local CBS feed,it's 'kind of' HD?) to DVD recorder? The DVD would only be SD at best, but it has an HDMI upconverter that may look nice on the TV when played back. Or, skip the DVD-recorder altogether and use OTA antenna to mac using EyeTV ? Any suggestions? I know I can't record HD to the DVD recorder.... just trying to get the best possible recorded results given these limitations.

Well, I would think you'd actually have to try each first, and then use whatever looks best to you.

So, getting ready for this..... here's my question: When trying to record to DVD-recorder, d'ya think it would it be better to record via OTA antenna to converter box (Zenith) to DVD recorder, or through digital comcast cable box (since this is a local CBS feed,it's 'kind of' HD?) to DVD recorder? The DVD would only be SD at best, but it has an HDMI upconverter that may look nice on the TV when played back. Or, skip the DVD-recorder altogether and use OTA antenna to mac using EyeTV ? Any suggestions? I know I can't record HD to the DVD recorder.... just trying to get the best possible recorded results given these limitations.I'm guessing your zenith box has composite at best (no s-video), so it goes to the bottom of the list PQ-wise. Assuming comcast doesn't compress the crap out of their HD (they often do), then s-video from it would be better. If you have a moto cable box, you may get a postage stamp sized picture over s-video, sending that method to the bottom of the list. HD direct to your mac would be great. Then burn an avchd DVD for playback of full HD on a bluray player. Is the idea to playback from your DVD player or recorder? In that case, it's pointless doing HD recording on the mac, since DVD players can't play back avchd DVD's.

For convenience, I think most of us go s-video from cable/sat box to DVD recorder and get excellent results. Some do fine with pc/mac recording, but I personally hate it because, despite getting the best PQ, it takes a lot of time and effort compared to the DVD recorder method.

Good luck.

Actually, if he's got a Panasonic recorder, the composite inputs will improve the signal some. They have "clean-up" circuitry, which was meant for recording from VCR's.

My DTV Pal CECB looks like crap connected directly to my TV's, but when I run it through my Panny recorders first, it actually looks quite acceptable (at least on the 32" analog. Still looks really bad on the 50" HD display, naturally - although my CM-7000 looks decent on that through s-video).

Will Craig still be using the same studio? His show is structured towards a small audience room (like a basement comedy club). Conan was also better in the smaller N.Y. studio. Neither Craig's nor Conan's humor is polished enough for a large chrome plated studio.

Will Craig still be using the same studio? His show is structured towards a small audience room (like a basement comedy club). Conan was also better in the smaller N.Y. studio. Neither Craig's nor Conan's humor is polished enough for a large chrome plated studio.

My take is that C-F will use the same studio at CBS Television City in Hollywood ("Beverly at Fairfax"). Of course, it is being revamped for HD use.

We'll see what it looks like on 31 August....

So, getting ready for this..... here's my question: When trying to record to DVD-recorder, d'ya think it would it be better to record via OTA antenna to converter box (Zenith) to DVD recorder, or through digital comcast cable box (since this is a local CBS feed,it's 'kind of' HD?) to DVD recorder? The DVD would only be SD at best, but it has an HDMI upconverter that may look nice on the TV when played back. Or, skip the DVD-recorder altogether and use OTA antenna to mac using EyeTV ? Any suggestions? I know I can't record HD to the DVD recorder.... just trying to get the best possible recorded results given these limitations.

OTA with the EyeTV would be FAR FAR better quality then using an analog hookup to DVD. The OTA is usually either the same or higher quality then the cable QAM feed, let alone the SD analog cable feed.

OTA with the EyeTV would be FAR FAR better quality then using an analog hookup to DVD. The OTA is usually either the same or higher quality then the cable QAM feed, let alone the SD analog cable feed.

Thanks everyone. The OTA is ideal, but I haven't figured out the best way to do it while I'm asleep! :) So, will try it, just to see how much hard drive space it eats up in HD.

I rearranged things and now have Svideo and audio out from the Moto comcast box (Is that the best "out" you can get from comcast -- I was eyeing the HDMI, component, etc ports but as far as I can tell, the DVD recorder IN options seem limited to RCA and/or Svideo. So... I connected DVD recorder directly to TV via HDMI (to retain Viera functions), and connected comcast directly to the TV via HDMI as well. Comcast to DVD-recorder via Svideo. The upconversion is actually pretty good. Comcast compresses the signal, but the local CBS seems good so I will probably use that for convenient time-shifted watching.

For stuff I want to record and keep, like the puppet musical performances that compresss nicely for ipod, I will use the mac + eyetv. I'm pretty sure the eyetv 250 (external box that takes care of the processing rather than using the computer to crunch) can be set up to record remotely (I haven't played with that much, since the idea of keeping the computer on all night isn't too great with a laptop, but I will experiment with it. Maybe it'll work with the lid closed if using an external monitor... I have a turbo USB gizmo that theoretically reduces the re-processing time for ipod 'food'.

Let's hope Craig's crew is doing some experimenting too -- we are all very psyched that he'll be back on the air live and in HD soon! Ideally, with improved lighting in that studio - I've heard they already have HD cameras, they're just going to be sending out a better signal now. (finally!) . Dont think he needs a big place - I suspect Craig's appeal is based largely on the fact that he speaks TO /THROUGH the camera to the viewers, and the studio audience is there for moral support and to provide the "laughtrack" .

I read that Shadoe Stevens is taping a program on Saturday (without Craig)-- maybe a test run for the equipment?

This Saturday, August 29th, The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson is taping their first HD episode and we need your help!!


The good news is that this is our first weekend taping ever and it will include a stand-up comedy segment and a music segment with Spencer Day. The bad news is that Craig Ferguson WILL NOT be at the taping. However, in return for helping us out and attending the taping this Saturday we will give you and your party a priority ticket to any taping of The Late Late Show in the month of September. To redeem this offer, simply use the link below and request a ticket for this Saturday. When you arrive you will turn your ticket in to our coordinator and we will then email you with a priority ticket for the date of your choice in September!


The arrival time this Saturday is 3:30 and the taping will last until approximately 6:30. For more information and to print a free ticket, please use the following link:

http://www.ocatv.com/latelate/index/show/1/event/6335

Or, skip the DVD-recorder altogether and use OTA antenna to mac using EyeTV ?

Go with EyeTV! If you have Toast Titanium with the Blu-Ray plugin, the whole show including commercials will fit easily onto a double-layer DVD+R. No Blu-Ray burner required. When you play that disc in a Blu-Ray player, it will look exactly like the original broadcast.

If you edit out the commercials, you may be able to fit the show onto a single-layer DVD-R or DVD+R, but it will depend on the bitrate your CBS station provides.

the idea of keeping the computer on all night isn't too great with a laptop

I've left my MacBook on all night for a scheduled recording without any problem. Just make sure you have the power cable connected, because the battery runs down faster when the tuner is connected and running. I schedule the recording(s), leave the EyeTV software open, and put the display to sleep. I did it just last night to record "Smart Travels" on my PBS station at 3:30 AM.

Go with EyeTV! If you have Toast Titanium with the Blu-Ray plugin, the whole show including commercials will fit easily onto a double-layer DVD+R. No Blu-Ray burner required. When you play that disc in a Blu-Ray player, it will look exactly like the original broadcast.

If you edit out the commercials, you may be able to fit the show onto a single-layer DVD-R or DVD+R, but it will depend on the bitrate your CBS station provides.


I've left my MacBook on all night for a scheduled recording without any problem. Just make sure you have the power cable connected, because the battery runs down faster when the tuner is connected and running. I schedule the recording(s), leave the EyeTV software open, and put the display to sleep. I did it just last night to record "Smart Travels" on my PBS station at 3:30 AM.

I do have Toast so it should work for doublesided disc. Do I need about 10 gig per hour? Did you update Eyetv software? I'm still using v 3.0.4 on macbookpro (Tiger) because it links to (free)Titan TV and I wasn't too happy when they switched to a pay model for scheduling. For the most part I onlly record when I'm there to keep an eye on things. But, I'm inspired to try it....for Craig :) Thanks

i was just going through the listings and noticed an "HD" for craig tonight

awesome !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

*edit, just found this*

http://www.canada.com/entertainment/television/Craig+Ferguson+gets+makeover/1927449/story.html

I'll give it a peek to see how it looks, besides I can't take much more of Fallon.

And it's up in HD.....

This man cracks me up.

2 NEW LIGHTS!
What's that sound? Jimmy Fallon crying?
This just in...Conan resigns...the 2 new lights were too much.

Looks a tad soft PQ wise.

WCBS-DT via OTA.

Sweet! They brought back the full theme song!

I hate that our local CBS KMOV has to have Inside Edition right after Letterman instead of going to Craig. Last week I was watching when he had Eric Idle on and half way the interview they go right to commercial. They come back half way through the "What did we learn on show tonight Craig" segment.

This guy can't stop talking about HD.

Conan did the same when he went HD - he even outlined the extra sides you would see in HD.

I hate that our local CBS KMOV has to have Inside Edition right after Letterman instead of going to Craig. Last week I was watching when he had Eric Idle on and half way the interview they go right to commercial. They come back half way through the "What did we learn on show tonight Craig" segment.


Part of the problem was that was the show that preempted by Kennedy's death. I was watching and about the time that Idle picked his guitar the NewsBreak came up. I'm assuming your station just cut the Newsbreak out and put a commercial there.

Now if they can figure out the HD graphics, we could see the Diner Hall Of Fame.:D

Part of the problem was that was the show that preempted by Kennedy's death. I was watching and about the time that Idle picked his guitar the NewsBreak came up. I'm assuming your station just cut the Newsbreak out and put a commercial there.


So did they break in twice about Kenndy's death? They did break in for that eariler in the show.

So one of those new lights already broke.

And apparently Emily doesn't know what HD really means. Or maybe the repeats finally went HD on TNT?

So one of those new lights already broke.

And apparently Emily doesn't know what HD really means. Or maybe the repeats finally went HD on TNT?

You know I was wondering about that comment too and came here to mention it. :)

I wonder if she meant they switched from film to HD cameras?

I'm sort of watching Craig right now, even though I'm really angry right now. My local CBS station (WFSB, Connecticut) is still showing it in SD, so no HD for me. :mad:

They do show an Entertainment Tonight rerurn in between Letterman and Ferguson here, I wonder if that's part of the reason why no HD for Ferguson. But Letterman and the ET rerun they show in HD. Hmm...

Looks a tad soft PQ wise.

WCBS-DT via OTA.

Thank you ... I thought something was wrong with my TV. Of course my local CBS isn't helping matters with their 720p down-conversion.

I wonder if she meant they switched from film to HD cameras?

I'm sure that's what it is. I've seen the same kind of confusing reference to "HD" (for various shows) even in industry publications. Kind of ironic that some of the shows are "going HD" will likely look WORSE.

As for Craig, maybe a little soft, but not bad at all.

This show looked softer than Letterman, but that show uses a good helping of higher frequency detail enhancement. It had about the same sharpness as Fallon to me. Maybe it looks a little softer at times because the show is darker, especially with the lighting problems they had tonight. Kimmel looks very outliney to me with some rather thick mid-frequency detail halos.

One thing I noticed tonight when comparing the three shows is how greenish Fallon's camera looked.

The color on Fallon's show has always been way off. At first, it was orange. Now it's more green. Flipping between Craig and Fallon tonight, I just never realized how off it was.

Besides the problem with the lighting, I thought it looked pretty good. The show itself was hilarious. I love in the beginning when he said this is how I really look now that we are in HD and put his puppet in front of the camera. LOL!

I'm sort of watching Craig right now, even though I'm really angry right now. My local CBS station (WFSB, Connecticut) is still showing it in SD, so no HD for me. :mad:

They do show an Entertainment Tonight rerurn in between Letterman and Ferguson here, I wonder if that's part of the reason why no HD for Ferguson. But Letterman and the ET rerun they show in HD. Hmm...

Yes. Most likely they don't have the equipment to show recorded content in HD.

So did they break in twice about Kenndy's death? They did break in for that eariler in the show.

I don't think they broke in twice since I changed channels when the newsbreak started. It was definitely when Idle was about to play (so must have been about 40minutes into the show -- 1:15 EDT) and then the whole screen cut to the 'Countdown' screen at around 7-8 and eventually to the news desk. When the countdown screen showed up my first thought was that it was a scripted bit since usually CBS just goes straight to the Breaking News screen.

If your station runs it 30 minutes later, you could have gotten the same news earlier in the show and then the station just snipped the show and added a commercial so the running time would have been identical.

Conan did the same when he went HD - he even outlined the extra sides you would see in HD.

yup and i think letterman did something with regis poking his head out from behind the curtain so that only HD viewers could see him

kimmel did something funny on his first HD show but i can't remember what it was right now

Yes. Most likely they don't have the equipment to show recorded content in HD.

That's sort of weird, as the station is more than capable of showing other shows that are mostly likely recorded (syndicated is my guess) in HD. My thinking is this, if they can record that night's episode of ET (in HD, which first airs at 7:30pm), and replay it after Letterman still in HD, why can't they do that for Ferguson? I find it kind of strange.

Looks a bit soft to me but it's great to see the show finally upgraded to HD. I like the new intro too. Anyone know what the first building in the intro is? I know I've seen it in a couple movies and TV shows.

Looks a bit soft to me but it's great to see the show finally upgraded to HD. I like the new intro too. Anyone know what the first building in the intro is? I know I've seen it in a couple movies and TV shows.

It's the Griffith Park Observatory.

yup and i think letterman did something with regis poking his head out from behind the curtain so that only HD viewers could see him

kimmel did something funny on his first HD show but i can't remember what it was right now

Kimmel had John Stamos walks out as Jimmy in HD.

Kimmel had John Stamos walks out as Jimmy in HD.


oh yeah, thanks

on a side note. i don't even know why they keep carson daly's show on the air. 95% of the time he's in re-runs for like 2 years now

Color temperature of the lights seems way too yellow to me -- compared to Dave's, the LLS show lighting seems much warmer. I know the sets are different and it's much darker, but beyond that, flesh tones seem too ruddy and the lights make Craig's hair look brown vs salt & pepper. They really should aim for a more natural light.

Meanwhile, it's great to see Craig back live, and it's nice to get him full screen. New intro is fun, too. And I guess this means he's not firing the puppets any time soon-- if they're starring in the intro he can't very well banish them!

Yes. Most likely they don't have the equipment to show recorded content in HD.

I just talked to the engineering department at WFSB. That's exactly why, they don't have enough equipment to delay the broadcast and then show it in hd. He said they would be able to in a few months.

This is the first night I've been able to watch the "new" LLS w/CF.

The show itself does seem to be a bit "soft"--but I think the lighting is appropriate for a 12:35a.m. show.

Video-wise, the intro is really crisp and sharp. The content is spectacular. What a GREAT intro.! Worth staying up (or fiddling with the DVR) to see....

:cool:

Can't wait to see Chunky B on camera in HD.

Now, THAT'S a thought.... :eek:

Video-wise, the intro is really crisp and sharp. The content is spectacular. What a GREAT intro.!
I thoroughly enjoy the LLS. But my wife is a fanatic. She actually applauded when she saw the new opening for the first time.

Awesome opening last night! For once a TV personality telling the people that are not friends of this country, what they can go do and on national tv to boot. The audience gave him a SO. Graig's the Man!

Awesome opening last night! For once a TV personality telling the people that are not friends of this country, what they can go do and on national tv to boot. The audience gave him a SO. Graig's the Man!

that was great

Promises to be a great season of the LLS....

OK. Letters with Paula Poundstone sucked tonight but the interview with Kristen Bell was funny. That was an example of how good his interviews can be when him and his guest are on. If you're on the west coast then you should check it out.

And Craig's Join or Die tattoo is fantastic.

Bumping the thread up:

Tonight (12/9/09) interview with Morgan Freeman was just superb. I was just rolling when those two got going. It so reminded me of classic Carson and one of his Hollywood buddies -- relaxed and 2 guys just sitting around shooting the breeze rather than an interview. Really just a couple minutes selling the movie and the rest just fun stories. I'm so glad they actually gave Freeman the whole show. One of the things that irritates me about CF is the guests only seem to get 5 minutes or so and then they leave.

Bumping the thread up:


Bump for a worthy news update:

Craig just won a Peabody award for his show with Desmond Tutu . How cool is that?

"As this fascinating, often funny interview attests, the Scottish-born Ferguson has made late-night television safe again for ideas."

This bit was never shown because of a mix-up over music rights. but looks like the "leaked" unaired dr. who cold open from the Late late Show with Craig has made its way to youtube.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0sK5d3oshp8

Cool! thanks for posting that link.
Craig is probably my favorite late night talk show host, great looking HD too, courtesy of CBS:)

Just watched yesterdays 2.11.2010 show. Craig was fantastic with science writer Jennifer Ouellette. I have little interest in the subject matter. But who knew there will be an interesting; entertaining conversation about physics that was not dry and I did not get bored with? Craig even mentioned Bernoulli's Principle of flow! WTF!? He seems so much smarter that the rest of the Late night host but yet, does the stupidest infantile jokes and gags.

He sucks you in and continues to surprise with his breadth of knowledge. His interview with Desmond Tutu obviously garnered quite a bit of respect. His recent show with Cornell West came off quite nicely and CF more than held his own on some rather touchy issues.

I love it when he goes off on one of his Philosophy rants and starts comparing rather obscure sublevels of Philosophy. It's quite obvious despite his addiction past there is quite a decent IQ lurking under there.

When he had Claire Danes on last year and found out that her father-in-law was published moral philosopher and Professor Jonathan Dancey (University of Texas) he couldn't book the guy fast enough -- how many late night hosts would have just melted under that sort of load or even considered doing a show with that sort of a guest. Again Craig not only held his own, but made the whole episode quite interesting.

OTOH, damn if I don't love his puppet shows -- Sid and Wavey are just a blast. Some people apparently hated his All Puppet 1000th show, but I though the whole idea was brilliant.

yep, I've seen all those episodes as well. I still have them archived. I think because of his addictive past he became well read specially about philosophy. I keep on thinking he's channeling Tom Snyder sometimes and so does CF. I also had no Idea he knew anything about science.

Didn't know we had a thread for Craig! I started watching last summer and haven't missed a single one since... near the end of last year I got crazy busy, so I ditched a couple broadcast dramas to make sure I had time for each and every Late Late Show.

kronos king of the monkey people is my favroite puppet. but wavy and nadine was my fav combo.
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I started watching The Late Late Show back in 2009. I really enjoy his puppet shows. Puppet shows are almost a lost art these days. I'm glad Craig Ferguson is doing them. I also enjoy his cooking guests when they have the table of food spreadout. Good stuff.

I can't say enough about Geoff Peterson.

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I can't say enough about Geoff Peterson.

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Geoff is cool.

Q&A
Craig Ferguson on Stand-Up, Theme Shows and Sitting Out the Late-Night Wars
By Joel Keller, AOL.com's 'TV Squad' - February 18th, 2011

Craig Ferguson has said it before, and he's sticking with his story: He is definitely not interested in starting or participating in another Late Night War.

"In order for there to be a war there would have to be something here that I was desirous of capturing. And there isn't," he told me yesterday.

On 'The Late Late Show With Craig Ferguson' every weeknight, he gets to dance to a modified 'Doctor Who' theme, banter with a robotic sidekick and pull out naughty puppets whenever he wants. And his improvisational monologue and casual, off-the-cuff interview style has drawn raves. Of all the late-night hosts, Ferguson seems to be the most comfortable in his own hosting skin.

Calling in to promote his new stand-up special, 'Craig Ferguson: Does This Need to Be Said?', which premieres on the EPIX network Saturday at 8PM ET, we talked about the way he writes stand-up, his love of dancing to Britney Spears, and how he really sees himself. But first, there was a need to congratulate him on a big event in his life.

Joel Keller: Congratulations on the birth of your son, Liam.
Craig Ferguson: Oh, thanks very much indeed. Yeah, he's almost 3 weeks old now, so I'll sleep soon. I keep telling myself that anyway. It's a big old sleep-deprivation fun ride.

What's the difference between this kind of sleep deprivation and some of your previous sleep deprivation in life?
Well, this one's not chemically enhanced in any way, for a start. And also, I gotta work when I wake up in the morning. I didn't have to work when it was back in the day.

How has this shaken up your daily routine?
Well, you know, like any newborn, you know it just shakes up your life. I mean, my wife's dealing with most of it. I'm, you know, delighted and grateful per se. So I kind of, I come at work and pretend I'm working, and nap in my office. But I was doing that before he was born, so I don't know if that's a huge difference. [Laughs]

What I noticed about the show was that it starts off by you telling the audience "Hey, I want to tell a joke," and then you just kind of layer and sidetrack and then peel back the onion. How tough is that to keep track of in your mind as you're going through it?
Well, actually it's some sort of a trick. Because what I did, as I was preparing the material, was I always knew that joke. So the joke that I tell at the end of the piece, I say, "I want to tell you a joke." Then if you don't tell that joke, and you hit a spot where you can't remember material, you can go back and either tell the joke and get off, or say you're going to tell the joke, which gives you enough time to rack your brain to move on to the next piece of material.

It also allows me to build the material in bite-size chunks. So if I could go to a comedy club and say hey, I want to tell you a joke, then do 10 minutes of new material, and then tell the joke... So it was more of a technique really. And then once you've performed the show over and over and over again, that's when it starts to develop and become as multi-layered as it does. You know, it's really, you're making a cabinet. You sand it, you varnish it, you sand it, you varnish it, you sand it, you varnish it, and it gives a deeper and deeper feel.

At the end of the special, you do a dance to 'Oops I Did It Again.' Did you tour with the two guys who dance with you?
We finish that act up every night. Every night that dance number. We did it every night.

Is Britney Spears an inspiration?
[Laughs] You know what, I just thought the song was nice, and it was a fun way to end the show. And everybody seemed to respond well to it. I mean, had it not been done so well, I'd have probably it out by the tenth show, but people loved it, so it stayed in.

Your style of interviewing people on 'Late Late' is very off the cuff and improvisational, like your monologue. How did that develop?
It's about degrees of comfort. The more constraints that were put on me at the beginning, as "This is the format, this is the way these shows are done," the more uncomfortable I felt. Because I didn't feel that I had a position in late night television. I wasn't fascinated by the form. I didn't grow up wanting to be Johnny Carson, as legendary and as good as he is and was, it wasn't something that I aspired to. So I didn't feel the call of the format the way that many of my contemporaries do. And the more that I deconstructed it, for myself, not because I felt any kind of animosity towards the way it was done, but just for myself, the more I did that, the more comfortable I became.

Peter Lassaly, who's a producer of the show, and who is my mentor in all of these things, and in fact, was the producer of 'The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson' for 30 years, was very keen to encourage me to find ways to be comfortable. Because comfort on screen is actually what these things were developed for in the first place. So if that doesn't work for you, then find what does. So the deconstruction of the format really came from just levels of comfort. You're absolutely right, that's what it was about.

One of the big interview clips that have been floating around lately is you and William Shatner complaining about lack of being promoted by CBS.
[Laughs] But you know what? You talk to people on TV shows all the time, right? Everybody complains about that. We were just saying what anyone on any television show will say at any point, given half the chance. And any television executive is familiar with that.

You've said in the past that you don't consider yourself a late-night talk show host. How do you see yourself?
I suppose if I was pushed to put it into one particular thing, then I suppose it would be writing, just because that's where it all comes from. It all is born from the actual perspiration of sitting down and spinning something on ... however random and however rough a format is, it has to be written down first, before I can begin with it. And should I lose my facility of speech, or just having a TV show, then I would return to writing the stuff down. So I think probably I'm a writer. I'm either a writer or a stand-up. And they're kind of the same thing, I think.

There was a rumor going around that Keith Olbermann did the voice of Geoff the robot sidekick on an episode. Is that true?
Absolutely not. No, no. It's all done by the same guy, Josh Thompson, who does the voice of Geoff every night. And he comes in most days and records new stuff, all the stuff. He's a terrifically talented voice artist. No, Keith didn't do it.

And they just push a button for whatever random thing Geoff is going to say?
Yeah, I don't push the button, and I don't know what the random phrases are. There's one of the writers that is off-stage with a control pad, he uses an iPad. And he controls the robot that way, and he fires it off whenever he feels like firing it off. And I don't know what the phrase is, or what's going to come next.

You should have Watson come on, and he and Geoff can do a little quiz round or something like that.
[Laughs] Yeah! I mean, it's interesting. I think that's a little ahead of Geoff.

With the 'Doctor Who' episode, what went on behind the scenes when you realized that the song couldn't be shown on the air at the very last minute?
Oh man, I was pissed! I mean, we had worked on that little dance routine probably longer than we worked on anything else in the show. We'd spent almost an hour getting that done. So I was really pissed when I found out. It wasn't a great day for the producers of the show. But, you know, it leaked out on the internet. And it actually wasn't me that did it, I'm delighted to say. It was somebody else that leaked it out. And then, of course, the clearance came through anyway, so we just showed it.

Do you want to do more episodes like that in the future? What other themes can you think of that you would like to explore?
Well, it tends to come up as it comes up. I mean, most of these thematic episodes tend to be actually a little more serious in their tone than the 'Doctor Who' thing. I mean, I guess, we did the 'MythBusters' one, which was fun.

Stephen Fry too, right?
Yeah. And the conversation with Stephen was a little more, just by the nature of what it was, it was a little more intense. Or when it was Bishop Desmond Tutu, or when we did the beginning of Black History Month with Cornell West ... these things tend to have a little more kind of gravitas to them. But you know, I don't really know what's coming up next, because that isn't what's going to be the bug in my ass tomorrow. And it's all kind of based around that.

Any chance you and your buddy Jimmy Fallon will be on each other's shows at any point?
I think we would both love to do that. And I think that that's no secret. I think that there are clearly concerns other than Jimmy and I involved here. But I like and respect Jimmy Fallon. And we have a very cordial and friendly relationship. So I'd love to see it happen. I don't see any need for it not to. But we'll see how it plays out. There are lawyers and executives in this world too.

So no chance of a Late Night War part three?
I don't know. In order for there to be a war there would have to be something here that I was desirous of capturing. And there isn't. You know, I do what I want to do here. A war, by its very nature, the oxygen of a war, for me to participate in a late night war, is that I would actually have to be trying to achieve or get some kind of plunder for myself, whether it's another time slot or another show. And I don't have that ambition. I don't care. You know, and that maybe, if nothing else makes me not a late night host, then maybe it's that. I genuinely, actually I'm not lying to you, I don't f*cking care. You know, I'm amazed I'm still on the air now.

You couldn't even do what you do now at 11:30 because it just wouldn't work there, I would imagine.
Well, you know, who's to say? I don't know. When I started at 12:30 it wasn't going to work either. Everybody said, "Oh the accent, oh it's the wrong guy." And Rick Ludwin at NBC said "He's too old to start a 12:30 show." I was the f*cking same age as Conan at the same time he was their guy. But it was kind of like people just f*cking tell you you can't do it. And you know, that's of no real interest. You know, could I do it at 11:30? I don't know. No one's asked me.

Well, you know, Letterman keeps saying he's going to retire, so you never know, right?
Well, we'll see. I mean, the thing is, I think Dave does a great job, and I swear, I think he should do it as long as he wants to do it.

'Craig Ferguson: Does This Need to Be Said?'
premieres on EPIX Saturday, Feb. 19, at 8PM ET.

'The Late Late Show With Craig Ferguson'
airs weeknights at 12:35AM ET on CBS.

http://www.tvsquad.com/2011/02/18/craig-ferguson-interview/

Thanks for that.

Thank for putting that up. I've been on a Craigy kick lately. Anyone read his books? They're pretty damn good. I do hope that his new special gets put on dvd.

Off to CBS Television City in Hollywood to see C-F again this week for the xxth time.

Looking forward to it. The staff is truly fun and the show is, well, all Ferguson in person.... :D

Craig on Charlie sheen "mental illness is not funny"
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So Geoff got upgraded to having Josh Robert Thompson (who voices GP) be live with Craig (from backstage? the control room? Mars?) from now on. This has been done before when Geoff went to Comic-Con and a couple movie premieres. I, for one, love the prerecorded sound bites that Geoff has had since July. But now with the "upgrades" he's like Andy Richter now. And he sounds like he has a very bad head cold now. It's very sad to me. :(

Oh, just remembered this: the show is now being sponsored by alcohol and gambling. I know they have to take money where they get it but sponsoring a show (hosted by a recovering alcoholic, mind you) with beer and Vegas is just plain stupid.

Geoff's voice just doesn't sound right now. I hope they can fix his voice and let him continue to me more talkative.

I still love Secretariot, Sid, and Wavy.

Geoff's live voice also completely negates the show's theme of simultaneously being a late-night talk show and a satire of one. Forcing the host to interact with the sidekick only in ways consistent with its programming is subversive, and funny. Interacting with an off-stage personality is nothing new; most announcer/sidekicks are off-camera most of the time anyway.

Or maybe the joke was getting stale. I do think Craig needs to mix it up more.

Monday-Wednesday had Canned Geoff and last night's show had Live Geoff. I'm presuming tonight's will have Live Geoff too, judging from last week. I don't get why they're mixing it up. I loved Canned Geoff cos you know what he's going to say in the back of your mind and it's ALWAYS funny when he says it. That's why they built the damn thing, to satirize the late night sidekick. Live Geoff is very underwhelming in comparison. I can hear the "oh crap i better come up with something funny really quick or they'll fire me" in Josh Robert Thompson's voice.

Edit: Canned Geoff on Friday. Whoops.

I find live-Jeff to be hilarious...a lot more funny than canned-responses Jeff.

Plus I think he gets away with a lot more just because it's coming out of a robot. Like the "self-aware" gestures that a real person could never get away with, or, "When Oprah comes and goes she really comes and goes." LMAO.

I think ferg is funniest talk show host around and that robot he talks to makes the show even greater.

I never tire of his "mouth organ or awkward pause" bit and lately the awkward pause has grown to the most awkward of all awkward pauses, the smell your finger awkward pause:D
I agree, it's also my favorite late night talk show and the great CBS picture quality doesn't hurt matters either:cool: HD at it's best IMO.

Paul Giamatti is always a great guest :)

I find live-Jeff to be hilarious...a lot more funny than canned-responses Jeff.

Plus I think he gets away with a lot more just because it's coming out of a robot. Like the "self-aware" gestures that a real person could never get away with, or, "When Oprah comes and goes she really comes and goes." LMAO.

As long as they don't upset the censors. There was one episode where Geoff kept saying Boner. It was hilarious, but the censors put a stop to that after they went to commercials. Geoff can masturbate, but Craig sure as hell can't.

I agree, it's also my favorite late night talk show and the great CBS picture quality doesn't hurt matters either:cool: HD at it's best IMO.

I agree. The HD picture quality is awesome and makes the show even better. I also love hearing the twitter jingles in surround.

Ding dong. WHO'S THAT AT THE DOOR!!!

I think ferg is funniest talk show host around and that robot he talks to makes the show even greater.I used to be 100% guest oriented for late night talk shows but now I TiVo this show nightly. One of my favorite bits is when he has someone from the audience on stage at the beginning of the show.

As lame as it sounds, there are times where I've paused my DVR because I was laughing so hard and didn't want to miss anything else.

Good interview coming up Friday night (5/6/2011) with Will Ferrell. Saw it taped last night...all will enjoy the banter.

I wish Geoff was live more often, but he does come up with new lines almost every day.

lol

I wish Geoff was live more often, but he does come up with new lines almost every day.

lol

Plenty of memory on his iPad controller, especially compared to beforehand. If i remember right, they could only have SEVEN phrases for him, so they had to be good.

I agree with those that don't like the live voiced Geoff as much as pre-recorded phrases Geoff.
It's funnier when it's just the pre-recorded phrases.
Tonight it's live voice Geoff.

The pre-recorded phrases sound a lot better.

Commercial time. You know what that means? Its time to pee.

The pre-recorded phrases sound a lot better.

Commercial time. You know what that means? Its time to pee.

Yea, Live Geoff sounds like he's talking into a soup can. Must've ran out of soup with that cold he has. :p

The interview segment with Geoff was one of the poorest I have ever seen Craig do!

I like live Geoff better then the canned one. Makes the show dynamic.

Geoff Peterson got Craig laughing so hard during the E-Mail segment tonight he had tears in his eyes. Good stuff.

Geoff Peterson got Craig laughing so hard during the E-Mail segment tonight he had tears in his eyes. Good stuff.

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That was one of the funnest segments ever.

Geoff should be live every day!

Craig will be shooting the show all next week in Paris, taking Geoff and Kristen Bell with him. Supposed to air the first week of August.

Craig will be shooting the show all next week in Paris, taking Geoff and Kristen Bell with him. Supposed to air the first week of August.

Craig's taking a little side trip to Russia before they shoot in Paris (Check his twitter). I wonder why they're airing it in August. Usually if they film something, it's on the show within 2 weeks. Are they taking the whole summer off after this?

And why take Kristen Bell? She loathes Geoff. There must've been someone else they could take with, maybe someone that's actually funny?

And Secretariat's going too. WHO'S THAT AT THE LOUVRE???

Isn't Kristen's "Hatred" of Geoff all the more reason to couple them for a trip? Let the fun ensue!

And Secretariat's going too. WHO'S THAT AT THE LOUVRE???

That had me - I so hope, hope it happens, will be hilarious.

Maybe Kristen Bell will tell Geoff to use both of his arms. Then Geoff will say "I hate you". Then they will hate each other.

Kristen Bell is hawt though.

Isn't Kristen's "Hatred" of Geoff all the more reason to couple them for a trip? Let the fun ensue!

Exactly. And Craig has said Kristen is his favorite guest, I think she's been on the show more than any other guest.

And tonight's repeat is one with KB.

Last night's show was pretty damn funny. Looking forward to the rest of the week.

Yeah it was. It didn't even feel like a late night talk show. I don't know what it felt like. It was just sort of random. For some reason I couldn't stop laughing when they were on the bus and Bell was just sitting in the background reading.

The Paris roadie is quite fun, kind of a very talented student film feel about it. Run and gun, avoid film permit locations, wing it and try and be funny and have fun. Pretty refreshing after putting up with the "Cowboys & Aliens" promotional onslaught we had to endure last week on all the talk shows.

(Is it too late to try and schmooze a date with the cute blond bookstore owner?)

As a newbe with Ferg I can tell you I love this show. It is just so totally irreverent, wacky and spontaneous. There is nothing currently on TV now to compare it to. Love Geoff!:D

Last night's show was pretty damn funny. Looking forward to the rest of the week.Monday's opening (song) was hilarious and the rest of the show wasn't far behind.

Wasnt expecting segments from the studio to be interspersed with the Paris footage. It's almost like a mix of a travel show & the "normal" show, which is very appealing to me since I don't have cable. ("You're welcome, stoners without cable!") I'm taping all the episodes this week. So far, so good.


Still waiting for Secretariat to show up at The Lourve....

Wasnt expecting segments from the studio to be interspersed with the Paris footage. It's almost like a mix of a travel show & the "normal" show, which is very appealing to me since I don't have cable. ("You're welcome, stoners without cable!") I'm taping all the episodes this week. So far, so good.


Still waiting for Secretariat to show up at The Lourve....

I don't have cable either. But I would much rather watch Craig Ferguson than Conan anyday.

I didn't start watching Craig Ferguson until 2009 when I found his show one night flipping through channels.

I have the opposite feelings about the Paris shows, for the most part I find them lacking.
How many Paris shows will there be?

I have the opposite feelings about the Paris shows, for the most part I find them lacking.
How many Paris shows will there be?

Tonight is the last one.

I've actually really enjoyed the segments with Craig, Kristen, and Jean Reno. While not always funny, their somewhat insightful. Jean is a much more intelligent person than I perceived.

if anything it's been some really nice scenery in HD

I've actually really enjoyed the segments with Craig, Kristen, and Jean Reno.I have enjoyed all of them. Although as my wife and I finish playing each episode I play Monday's night opening song. It's beyond enjoyable. :)

I've actually really enjoyed the segments with Craig, Kristen, and Jean Reno. While not always funny, their somewhat insightful. Jean is a much more intelligent person than I perceived.
Same thing I thought. Though to be fair it's not like I knew that much about the guy in the first place. Not like you can learn that much about him from watching Leon. :p

Speaking of, could Kristen Bell be any more awesome?

Damn it, now my wife wants to go the THE shoe store...

Did The Late Late Show stop the cold open?
Tonight the show started with the opening theme video and the monologue.

Don't think so - Security issue apparently (as Craig explained) and they did show the Cold Open in actual filming order (after the monologue).

I really enjoyed the e-mail segment Monday Night. Very funny stuff.

I really enjoyed the e-mail segment Monday Night. Very funny stuff.

Geoff's arm continually breaking was funny.

Geoff's arm continually breaking was funny.

And the fact that they got away with saying Hand Job twice on tv. :cool: I love late night OTA tv. If only the sexy Spanish show on Telemundo wasnt on at the same time as Craig. "Oh my..."

This has been brought up a long time back when the show first went HD, but it's worth bringing up. The wait is finally over for those of us in Connecticut, as starting last night, WFSB is now showing Craig Ferguson in full HD. It's still delayed by a half-hour (shown at 1:07am instead of 12:37am thanks to an Entertainment Tonight rerun), but looks like they now have the equipment to show recorded content in HD.

Congrats on finally getting HD. The show has awesome HD.

During football season on Friday nights at 11:35pm my CBS station shows a high school football show called Football Friday Night. They copy Letterman and Craig Ferguson with their 1970's tape machine. So there is no HD and no surround sound on these shows on Friday nights during the fall where I live.

Congrats on finally getting HD. The show has awesome HD.

During football season on Friday nights at 11:35pm my CBS station shows a high school football show called Football Friday Night. They copy Letterman and Craig Ferguson with their 1970's tape machine. So there is no HD and no surround sound on these shows on Friday nights during the fall where I live.

LOL, what, are they recording it on 3/4" Umattic?

LOL, what, are they recording it on 3/4" Umattic?

I'm not sure what they are using but I have a 20 year old VCR that looks better and even copies and plays back in stereo.

I'm surprised no one has posted anything about Alex Ciambotti, the young aspiring actress that was on the show a couple of nights this week. She is absolutely adorable! I'd like to see her on the show more.

I've noticed:) and agree!

I'm surprised no one has posted anything about Alex Ciambotti, the young aspiring actress that was on the show a couple of nights this week. She is absolutely adorable! I'd like to see her on the show more.Her second night I thought she took over the show... even her mom looked charming. The other day I played the Paris shows theme song for a friend... it never fails to get a few laughs.

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Alex Ciambotti is HOT!!!

Her second night I thought she took over the show... even her mom looked charming. The other day I played the Paris shows theme song for a friend... it never fails to get a few laughs.

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Anyone have english translation for the lyrics? Sounds like sam boom blam wah to my non-French ears.

LOL!

sroqmHVueiI

Ferguson just gets me laughing some nights and with Sid leading this opening I didn't have a chance to catch my breath until the Cat sequence.

I'm probably one of the few people on this planet that really doesn't like Rocky Horror. "There's a light..." yeah, there's lights EVERYWHERE ON THE PLANET. Look up to the sky, see that? LIGHTS! FROM SPACE!!!

Rant Over.

LOL!

sroqmHVueiI

I'm glad you posted that. I only tuned in for Neil Gaiman and Amanda Palmer and was wondering why Amanda was doing a Rocky Horror song since I missed the setup. Now I know.

No idea any of what you posted, just know I have to be prepared to laugh when I watch it.

I'm probably one of the few people on this planet that really doesn't like Rocky Horror.You can count me in that group, too.

Especially the music.

Haven't seen it.

Surprised that nobody mentioned Josh Robert Thompson is away from Geoff's podium this week. A different actor has subbed in to be Geoff every night, except last night was Larry King subbing in. Weird.

But it was freaking hilarious. That show had me in tears.

If I had to rate the subs...

Larry King
Dude from Reno 911 with the weird Spanish accent
Dude from Lost
Alfred Molina

But none of them were bad. Molina was probably the most out of place though...the other guys jumped right into the role. Well, Larry just took over the show, which is probably why it was so damn funny.

Saw the spanish accent one, pretty funny. Lol

Larry King had me literally crying too (in large part due to Craig's reactions) -- once King got started I couldn't breathe.

Didn't like the Spanish dude, Louie Anderson has been just bad.

I know that some sort of interaction needs to take place, but in a lot of cases this week, it's just better to have Canned Geoff....



IN YOUR PANTS!!!

Watched the Friday episode with Drew Carey, Louie Anderson sucked...

Drew looks GREAT!

Watched the Friday episode with Drew Carey, Louie Anderson sucked...

Drew looks GREAT!

Yeah, he's almost as thin as Geoff now. LOL!

I've always liked him even though I didn't like his show, sucked when he had his (heart attack I think that's what it was?) He was in a lot of trouble, glad to see he turned his health around in a big way.

I dunno I kinda like Spanish Geoff.

Latest Tweet has Lauren Graham as Geoff......:D

Hot Damn! I have to make sure I watch that!

Latest Tweet has Lauren Graham as Geoff......:D


Is she doing it again tonight (Tues)? I thought it was just for Monday night. She had me tickled for a lot of the hour -- you're pretty! I though Craig was going to have to hire his divorce lawyer yet again.

I was thinking Kristen Bell might be one of the Geoff's though she's had such running 'hatred' for the skeleton I'm not sure it would be appropriate.

Is she doing it again tonight (Tues)? I thought it was just for Monday night. She had me tickled for a lot of the hour -- you're pretty! I though Craig was going to have to hire his divorce lawyer yet again.

I was thinking Kristen Bell might be one of the Geoff's though she's had such running 'hatred' for the skeleton I'm not sure it would be appropriate.

Paula Poundstone will be Geoff tonight. Just got the tweet from GeoffTheRobot himself. :D

I'm starting to miss Josh Robert Thompson as Geoff. Most of his replacements just aren't as funny.

I agree. I really miss Josh!

It really puts a spotlight on the necessary timing required to play Geoff.
Larry King was pretty funny though...all the rest have just been so-so

Kristen Bell would be IDEAL to put in on Friday's show !

These replacements don't sync with Peterson's mouth.

I'd tune in if Kristen Bell is on.

I'd tune in if Kristen Bell was swimming naked and throwing beads. :D

I agree with most of you, except for the Larry King night, I think all of the substitute Geoff's have not been very good. Got tickets for Craig's show next month, I will be sure to discuss this with him. He does have big discussions about the show with all the audience members right?

He does have big discussions about the show with all the audience members right?

Knowing Craig, as long as you are a cute girl you may even be invited on stage:D

^That blonde (or was it red head?) that was an audience member then became an... intern wasn't bad.

She was a red head and she was very cute.

I enjoyed Don Rickles on the Friday Night show. I have an episode of I Dream of Jeannie on DVD with him in it.

She was a red head and she was very cute.

But the intern wasn;t Geoff any night was she? I thought the Ms Geoff with the red wig on Monday was Lauren Graham (or did I misinterpret the gist of the post).

And Rickles killed me Friday night. I was lucky enough to see him live in Vegas somewhere around 1981.

Knowing Craig, as long as you are a cute girl you may even be invited on stage:D

Having attended a taping last month (the one with Joel McHale & the first appearance of the Swedish girls in the cold open) I can confirm that's pretty much the only way you'll get to directly interact with Craig.

If I remember right at least once when they plugged the gift shop/shack in the waiting area as a way to spend some of your time while waiting they specifically mention that you can't have Craig sign anything.

There was one lady in the crowd who wanted one of the Tweetmail printouts saying it was hers that they read, & after making a quick attempt to find it they quickly went back to the post-show cleanup. Forget if that was before or after they showed the "Michael Caine in Space" short so they could get the audio for our reactions & had Craig come out to record the Swedish phrases they used to bleep out the cussing. Even if they would've given her the sheet the Tweetmail segment never aired as it went long & so did both of the interview segments. So they dropped the Tweetmail segment & aired the "Michael Caine in Space" short between commercial breaks.

Do they record the segments out of sequence?
As Paula Poundstone commented on something that hadn't happened yet.

Do they record the segments out of sequence?
As Paula Poundstone commented on something that hadn't happened yet.

Yes- they do. At least (from what it seems), it's recorded as monologue, then the cold open, followed by tweets etc. Assuming they don't record multiple shows that night, or extra things. But I'm sure someone who's been to a taping could clarify it.

Do they record the segments out of sequence?
As Paula Poundstone commented on something that hadn't happened yet.

As CJPC said, the cold open is actually the 2nd segment taped.

Something's been bugging me with the censors on the show. The flag censors are used damn near every cuss for the rest of the show, BUT many times I've noticed during many a monologue that Craig just gets blurred and muted, instead of being flagged. "The hell??"

Something's been bugging me with the censors on the show. The flag censors are used damn near every cuss for the rest of the show, BUT many times I've noticed during many a monologue that Craig just gets blurred and muted, instead of being flagged. "The hell??"

He mentioned that during one show, asking the producer why that happened - but never got an answer. My guess - something with S&P before 1AM (although, flags show up during the post-monologue segment)

He mentioned that during one show, asking the producer why that happened - but never got an answer. My guess - something with S&P before 1AM (although, flags show up during the post-monologue segment)

Figures, the producer doesn't know anything, especially if the show's made in the basement. :rolleyes:

I've seen the flags show up occasionally in the monologue (even on Geoff), but not as much as the pixels. My guess is whoever's doing post-production doesn't know how to make the flags bigger. :p

I think both are hilarious mixed in with different words dubbed in. Seems like all of it is random.

I think last night the Tweetmail segment ran so long that they taped a new cold open ("Tonight's going to be a good one!") after they finished taping the main show.

I think last night the Tweetmail segment ran so long that they taped a new cold open ("Tonight's going to be a good one!") after they finished taping the main show.

You'd think that with the cold open being 10 seconds, the theme being 30 seconds, guest list & sponsor spot being 10 seconds, you'd just go straight to the monologue. But nooooo. Gotta have those boner pill commercials.

I'm glad that The Late Late Show went to HD, but thanks to my local affiliate's odd decisions/stupidity, they downscale it, and shrink it to an odd size smaller than the 4x3 viewing area(to something like 14x9 possibly?). It Is quite annoying.

I'm glad that The Late Late Show went to HD, but thanks to my local affiliate's odd decisions/stupidity, they downscale it, and shrink it to an odd size smaller than the 4x3 viewing area(to something like 14x9 possibly?). It Is quite annoying.

My local affiliates do the same thing with a bunch of shows that were HD and squish them down to SD, even commercials. And then theyshows a commercial that was originally HD, but shrunk to SD within HD within SD. It's so small you can't read anything.