Wednesday, October 24, 2001

Janeane Garofalo (the woman with the most radiant smile in showbiz) and I share something in common: a strong, unreasoning affection for Craig Kilborn. "Craiggers" first came to my attention as the original host of Comedy Central's The Daily Show, and he's been sitting in the big chair on CBS' The Late, Late Show for a couple of years now.

Like Ms. Garofolo, I know I should hate "Kilby." I should despise him for the frathouse smarminess, the Maxim sensibility, the juvenile nicknames. Taken at face value, he's exactly the kind of person I would normally hold in contempt.

Yet I don't hate him. I've tried to, but there's something about him that transcends what would be grievous flaws in just about anyone else. I was sorry to see him leave The Daily Show (although I am most pleased with his replacement, Jon Stewart), and was thrilled to see him get the slot after Letterman. Despite the late hour, I catch his show once or twice a week, and may start TiVo-ing it for viewing during my post-dinner, pre-primetime viewing block.

I can't put my finger on why I find the guy appealing. Could it be I've got an inner party guy I've never let express himself that responds to Kilborn's free-wheeling persona? (Very likely.) Is it all just a perfectly honed act that I see through and appreciate for its comic genius? (Doubtful, but not impossible.) Am I gay? (Nope.)

Maybe I'll get a chance to meet Janeane one of these days. Comparing notes on the subject could be an inroad to a great, and potentially enlightening, conversation.

Posted @ 6:09 PM

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