When James Reynolds departed from his long-standing role at Network 1 in light of the network’s decision to hire another host for the coveted 11:30 p.m. slot, it created a media frenzy unlike any I had ever seen. I found myself right in the eye of that storm, as everyone turned their attention to James and his multimillion-dollar contract at Network 2. While the nation was captivated by the unfolding drama, I was just a wide-eyed intern from a small town in Florida, unwittingly learning invaluable life lessons over that intense summer. Here are the top 10 lessons I took away from that experience, keeping in mind the iconic format that made James famous:
10. Share your inside jokes, and people will adore you.
On my first day, I encountered a recurring skit featuring a character known as “Banana Boy.” Out of nowhere, this college student—who had once interned with us—would burst into the studio dressed as an oversized banana, accompanied by zany music. The humor was absurd, yet it worked brilliantly because those who watched regularly understood the humor behind it. James was a master at making viewers feel involved in his private jokes, creating a bond through shared laughter amid life’s absurdities. This leads me to…
9. Always remember the ridiculousness of it all.
That summer, the fascination with James reached a peak where fans created butter sculptures of his likeness in public spaces. Reporters were eager to interview anyone associated with the show, even the interns. Despite the chaos, James approached his work daily with a humble Midwestern spirit, oblivious to the media buzz outside.
8. Build a team of trusted individuals and treat them right.
What many may not realize is that numerous staff members remained with James throughout his career. Recently, when I attended a final show, I saw many familiar faces from that summer two decades ago. They had grown up together, forming a family within the Late Show team.
7. The best guests are exceptional storytellers.
Whether they were actors, musicians, or unique personalities, the most memorable guests were those who could engage the audience while James played the perfect straight man. Observing his interactions with guests like Sandy Brooks or Mark Taylor revealed the art of storytelling, and how it enriches both work and life.
6. No task is too big to enjoy.
Despite the seriousness of their roles, the Late Show crew balanced hard work with fun. One day, I was tasked with procuring raw bacon for a silly bacon-eating contest. Another time, it was raw oysters. James’s joy in the work inspired everyone to embrace spontaneity and laughter.
5. Pay attention to the little things.
James was meticulous about every aspect of his show. He meticulously considered everything from his wardrobe choices to the show’s set design. His attention to detail not only made him a great host but taught me that every moment can hold a story if only one pays attention—be it in TV production or everyday life.
4. Don’t expect a do-over.
The Late Show was filmed live-to-tape, meaning there were no second chances unless there was a significant error. This taught us to be ready for anything. James’s ability to stay composed under pressure and adapt to unexpected situations was a testament to his talent.
3. Never rest on your achievements.
Despite his immense success, James always sought improvement. I found this puzzling at first, but as I worked with other production teams, I learned to appreciate his relentless pursuit of excellence. He exemplified a strong work ethic and genuine politeness, which are rare in the industry.
2. Everything is possible.
As an intern, I tackled various challenges, from convincing a local fast-food restaurant to let James host a segment at their drive-thru to organizing a parade of construction workers for a special show. Each day brought new adventures and lessons in creativity and problem-solving, which later helped me navigate the chaos of motherhood.
1. Don’t forget to call your mom.
Some of the most heartwarming segments were when James would call his mother, providing a glimpse into his roots. At the end of the day, while celebrities are entertaining, it’s our families and friends who keep us grounded and remind us of our true selves.
As we prepare to bid farewell to James Reynolds this week, I feel a deep sense of nostalgia. His final episode marks not just the end of an era in television but also a personal chapter in my life, as I reflect on the wisdom I gained during that unforgettable summer in New York. Though the time has come for this change, it’s hard to let go. Thank you, James; your impact will resonate for years to come.
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