I am serious, it seems as though they are not happy until they frustrate or humiliate or embarass their guest. If you ever watch Johnny Carson, he didn't do that stuff. Also, Johnny Carson kept with the agreed upon questions, he didn't spring anything on you. Today's talk show host will ask you anything, including digging up some dirt about you and trying to put you on the spot. I mean why in the world do celebs agree to go on these shows if it is a known fact you are going to be humiliated?

Even if you go to stand-up comedy bars they will do the same. I don't want to generalize, I'm from the East and not from the West, but it seems like it's part of their spontaneous act to keep people interested. Here in Manila, we have a lot of comedy bars, usually hosted by comedians (straight or gay) and they end up insulting and humiliating their guests, majority are foreigners, who keep on returning every night. I don't like the idea and I feel it's strange but some of these people do feel entertained. I'm also wondering if they apologize after the whole show...

Meh. For me it depends on how its done. Dave Letterman picks on all of his guests, but its always in good humor, nothing ever too mean. Jimmy Kimmel and Jay Leno can cross the line sometimes, because they are not as good at the subtleties of sarcasm as Uncle Dave. Monique simple humiliates herself every night. I havent yet had an opportunity to watch the new Conan show, but hes usually pretty nice to his guests.

well, if they didnt, talk shows would get boring. they want dirt so they get the money

Anyone who goes on Chelsey Handler is 1 taco short of a combo platter! She is cold blooded..lol..if I was on her show..I would either need therapy afterwards...or it would end up looking like the Jerry Springer Show...ding..ding..ding.. 1 or the other... ~ She will put you on front street effordlessly..with no hesitations..