Another one of these. For those of you who are new to this blog, the mushroom soup can signifies that Mark is busy with something that is likely to keep him from blogging and maybe even responding to e-mails for a brief period. It should not in any way be considered product placement for the Campbell's company which has never sent me so much as a noodle, those rat bastards.
One nice thing about being this busy is that I don't have time to think much over whether it's going to be Trump vs. Hillary or Cruz vs. Bernie or what's the inevitable surprise twist that's going to happen here? There's going to be one of them…something no one saw coming except that after it happens, they'll all say they did. I'm thinking Donald may pick a wombat at his running mate in a desperate attempt to lock up that all-important marsupial vote.
Some folks on the 'net are making a big deal about news that a new showrunner is coming in to preside over Stephen Colbert's show. That might be a significant development if he's going to truly supplant in any way the real showrunner, who of course is Stephen Colbert. I think Colbert's doing the best late night program that's currently airing and given its ratings, it's doubtful his job is in any jeopardy. But his numbers could be higher and one assumes that's what the new guy is there to work on.
Personally, I think the show needs to make more use of Colbert's ability to ad-lib. First thing I'd do is make a rule: We tape in real time, no edits and less rehearsal. A late night show does not need prime-time polish. There ought to be moments which not only surprise the audience but the host as well. Second thing: At his old gig, Colbert often seemed to be bigger than his own series, turning up on other shows and in Washington and in the news, surprising us every which way. His new show's a good one but they fit him into standard talk show format instead of reinventing talk show format to fit him. I'd love to see him break out more. Hope that's what the new guy will help him do.
I'll be back later. I'm just not sure how later.