Much like the new edge in rock that reared up in the late 1970's and continues today, "The Dennis Miller Show" could easily be classified as the first alternative talk show. It not only featured cutting edge bands (and is responsible for "breaking" "Toad the Wet Sprocket"), but guests who were were also breaking new ground. Many of the people who stopped by to chat with Dennis were not seen on the other late-night programs of the time.
I disagree that "The Dennis Miller Show" had a limited audience due to its being smart and topical. On the contrary, the lack of audience had everything to do with Tribune contracting it for time slots that were in the wee-hours of the morning; Miami (4:00am) and San Francisco (2:00am) being but two examples. The show was also hurt by the booking practices of the rival "Tonight Show with Jay Leno" whose former Executive Producer, Helen Kushnick, would ban stars from appearing on her program if they appeared on any other talk show. This policy not only hurt "The Dennis Miller Show", but also had a negative effect on "The Arsenio Hall Show" as well.
I disagree that "The Dennis Miller Show" had a limited audience due to its being smart and topical. On the contrary, the lack of audience had everything to do with Tribune contracting it for time slots that were in the wee-hours of the morning; Miami (4:00am) and San Francisco (2:00am) being but two examples. The show was also hurt by the booking practices of the rival "Tonight Show with Jay Leno" whose former Executive Producer, Helen Kushnick, would ban stars from appearing on her program if they appeared on any other talk show. This policy not only hurt "The Dennis Miller Show", but also had a negative effect on "The Arsenio Hall Show" as well.