British comedian and actor-turned US talk show host, James Corden, has announced that he will be leaving ‘The Late Late Show’ next year.
James made the announcement during a recording of the CBS network’s show in Los Angeles. James, who is best known in the UK for the TV series, ‘Gavin and Stacey’, has hosted the US-based talk show since 2015. According to the show host, leaving the show is “the hardest decision I’ve ever had to make”.
“I never saw [the show] as my final destination and I never want this show to overstay its welcome in any way, I love it. I really think in a year from now that will be a good time to move on and see what else might be out there,” James said.
James also noted that hosting the show had changed his life as he said: “I am so proud of what we’ve achieved, it’s been beyond my wildest, wildest dreams”. He added that the coming year’s show would be “the best year we have ever had… we are going to go out with a bang”.
It is worth mentioning that James Corden took over the role of hosting the late night talk show from comedian and actor, Craig Ferguson, in 2015. James Corden became a household name in the US, presenting notable showbiz awards such as the Tony and Grammy.
During his time on ‘The Late Late Show’, he introduced segments such as ‘Drop the Mic’ and ‘Carpool Karaoke’ , which featured celebrities including singer Adele and Prince Harry. The segments went on to have their own standalone series.
In a statement, CBS President and CEO, George Cheeks said: “From ‘Crosswalk’, the Musical, to the legendary ‘Carpool Karaoke’, and every unique comedy segment he introduced, James has truly reimagined many elements of the late-night format. We wish he could stay longer, but we are very proud he made CBS his American home and that this partnership will extend one more season on ‘The Late Late Show'”.
Fans React to James’ Annoucement
Meanwhile, fans of the show host reacted to the news on Twitter, with many joking that the actor and comedian should stay in the US.
“A reminder that the UK isn’t taking James Corden back,” one quipped.
“Sad to hear this morning that James Corden is returning to the UK,” another tweeted.
While another jokingly questioned if anyone has started a crowdfunding appeal to keep James Corden in the USA.
One fan joked that James should be stopped from returning to the UK, in case he tries to get himself a role in the upcoming big-screen adaptation of the hit musical.
Some of his fans shared their sadness over James’ decision to leave ‘The Late Late Show’, with many wanting him to carry on in the coveted role.
“I feel like I’m in the minority in the UK liking ‘The Late Late Show’ and James Corden but I’m really sad about him leaving. The slow feels so inclusive, friendly and a little outlet of escapism,” one fan wrote.
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