Linguistic and cultural differences between British and American English: A comparison of the "Late Night Show" with the "Graham Norton Show"

English is a constantly evolving language, characterized by a remarkable variety of uses and variations, depending on geographical, historical and cultural contexts. Among its main variants, British English and American English represent two different linguistic systems, shaped by centuries of autonomous development and mutual influences. These differences are not limited to grammar or pronunciation but also extend to deeper levels of communication, including humor, linguistic register, and conversational dynamics. The variations between British and American English stem from multiple factors, including colonial history, migratory influences, educational policies and the role of the media. British English has more traditional roots and a connection to European cultural heritage and for this reason maintains a more conservative linguistic approach. American English, on the other hand, has developed distinctive traits through the fusion of languages and cultures, fostering greater dynamism and adaptability. Lexical, phonetic and grammatical differences are just some of the manifestations of this independent evolution. One of the most interesting contexts in which these differences emerge is that of talk shows, television programs that play a fundamental role in the dissemination of linguistic and cultural models. These programs not only reflect everyday spoken language but also contribute to its evolution, introducing new terms, expressions and ways of communication. Talk shows are also influenced by the culture and society in which they are produced, shaping the way guests and audiences interact and perceive language. In particular The Graham Norton Show and The Late Night Show provide a wide range of examples that allow for an analysis of the peculiarities of British and American English in an informal context, characterized by spontaneous interactions and strongly influenced by their respective cultures. The Graham Norton Show representing the British approach, stands out for its sophisticated humor, characterized by irony, sarcasm and understatement. The tone of the conversation is often relaxed with fluid interaction among guests who sit together on the same couch. The lexicon used includes numerous idiomatic expressions and cultural references. The Late Night Show on the other hand, embodies the American style, with a faster pace, a more enthusiastic tone and a greater emphasis on visual entertainment. The use of language reflects this difference with a more direct lexicon, colloquial expressions and a more structured interaction between the guests and the host. This study aims to explore the linguistic and cultural differences between British and American English through the comparative analysis of these two renowned talk shows. Through a detailed examination of lexicon, pronunciation, communicative strategies and the use of humor. The analysis will provide a better understanding of how media influence the perception and dissemination of linguistic trends on a global scale. Furthermore, the research will shed light on the role of talk shows as tools for language dissemination, examining their impact on new generations and spoken language in international contexts.