Archive · 6 Nov 2025
YouTube Champions Creator-Led Shows to Challenge Traditional Late-Night TV
Imagine your favorite YouTubers getting their own big talk shows, like the ones you see on TV late at night!
YouTube is doing just that, calling it 'New Hollywood.'
They are throwing parties for shows like 'Royal Court,' which has a fun, medieval theme and features internet stars interviewing famous actors.
YouTube believes these creator-led shows are the future because lots of people are watching them.
In fact, more people watch YouTube during TV time in the U.S. than Netflix!
These shows are different because they feel more personal and connected to what people enjoy online.
So, YouTube is betting that these new shows, made by people who started on the internet, will become just as popular, or even more popular, than the old-style TV shows.
YouTube is promoting creator-led talk shows, such as Brittany Broski's 'Royal Court,' as a 'New Hollywood' alternative to traditional late-night television.
'Royal Court' features a medieval theme and interviews celebrities and influencers, with guests like Kyle MacLachlan and Brie Larson.
YouTube's U.S. primetime viewership has surpassed Netflix, indicating its growing influence in the television landscape.
The platform is also focusing on other creator-driven content like video podcasts and stand-up specials.
This strategy aims to capture audience and advertiser attention by leveraging the appeal of online creators and evolving viewing preferences.
- Who
- YouTube, content creators like Brittany Broski, and figures from 'Old Hollywood' like Kyle MacLachlan.
- What
- YouTube is actively promoting and investing in creator-led talk shows, positioning them as rivals to traditional late-night television formats.
- When
- The trend is ongoing, highlighted by the launch event for season three of 'Royal Court' and YouTube's growing viewership metrics.
- Where
- The events are taking place online on YouTube, with promotional events like the 'Royal Court' launch occurring in locations like Los Angeles.
- Why
- YouTube aims to capture audience attention and advertiser interest by capitalizing on the popularity of online creators and evolving viewing habits, creating a 'New Hollywood' that challenges the established 'Old Hollywood' late-night landscape.
Traditional Late-Night TV
YouTube Creator Shows
Industry Origin
Traditional Late-Night TV
Represents 'Old Hollywood' with established structures and talent.
YouTube Creator Shows
Represents 'New Hollywood,' emerging from online creators and platforms.
Format and Appeal
Traditional Late-Night TV
Features established hosts and formats with long-standing traditions.
YouTube Creator Shows
Creator-driven, often blending elements of internet culture, gaming, and specific fandoms (e.g., medieval theme, 'Hot Ones' format).
Audience Viewership
Traditional Late-Night TV
Facing declining viewership and recent suspensions/cancellations of shows.
YouTube Creator Shows
Surpassing Netflix in U.S. primetime viewership, indicating strong audience engagement and a growing mainstream appeal.
- Featured Show
- Royal Court, hosted by Brittany Broski
- Platform
- YouTube
- Show Concept
- Medieval-themed talk show blending 'Game of Thrones' aesthetic with the interview format of 'Hot Ones'
- Notable Guests (Royal Court)
- Kyle MacLachlan, Fortune Feimster, Bob the Drag Queen, Orville Peck, Brie Larson, Hannah Einbinder, David Corenswet, Diego Luna, Colman Domingo, Charli XCX, Paul Mescal
- YouTube's Strategy
- Promoting creator-led talk shows, video podcasts, and stand-up specials as 'New Hollywood'
- YouTube vs. Netflix (US Primetime Viewership)
- 11.1 million average viewers vs. 10.7 million average viewers
- Advertiser Involvement
- Advertisers like Cash App are supporting YouTube creator shows