Even a consistently successful host like Claudia Winkleman has failed to revive the tired talk show format. Her new show, The Claudia Winkleman Show, ends its first season leaving more questions than enthusiasm.
Before the launch, Winkleman was considered a "guaranteed success" thanks to projects like The Traitors and The Piano. But this latest project seems like a less certain step in her career.
The ratings aren't bad – the first episode drew around 1.5 million viewers, a little more than an episode of The Graham Norton Show. However, comparisons to Graham Norton are inevitable – and often to its detriment.
The main problem is precisely this comparison. Launching a new talk show in a Friday night slot, where Norton has dominated for years, is a difficult challenge. His format remains the gold standard, and any other attempt seems like a pale version.
Winkleman has tried to innovate, especially through studio audience involvement, but these segments often feel disjointed and don't fill the void left by the absence of big names. Unlike Norton, who often hosts high-profile stars like Timothée Chalamet and Margot Robbie, the guest list here has been more modest.
Another challenge is the talk show format itself, which is losing relevance in the age of podcasts and live celebrity interviews. Today, the most viral moments often happen outside of traditional television studios.
Winkleman's style also plays a role: she's affable and reserved, but perhaps lacks the sting or irony that makes Norton so appealing.
Although the show is expected to get a second season, thanks to its viewership and reputation, it's hard to imagine long-term success.
In the end, this project shows that even a strong name is not enough to save a format that seems increasingly out of date./GazetaExpress/
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