Exclusive: TV Host Craig Kilborn Unveils Directorial Debut 'The Life Golden'

Former late-night host Craig Kilborn is set to make his directorial debut with the film “The Life Golden,” a project that has exclusively been learned by Variety. The independent stylish murder mystery will star Lauren German, known for her role in “Lucifer,” and Tom Byrne from “The Crown,” leading a notable ensemble cast.

The official plot description reveals that the film centers on Griffin Fairhurst Gates, also known by his enigmatic moniker, The Golden Griff. Gates is depicted as a reclusive and eccentric former television personality whose meticulously curated life in the Hollywood Hills is dramatically upended by a shocking crime. This event forces him out of his self-imposed isolation and plunges him into an unexpected mystery, forming the core of the film's narrative.

Kilborn is not only directing but also producing the film alongside Jacob Ryan Snovel, who previously worked on “Out of Exile.” The supporting cast is rounded out by several familiar faces, including Kevin Pollak (“A Few Good Men”), Rainey Qualley (“Love in the Time of Corona”), Ryan Francis (“Hook”), Matthew Wolf (“The Quick and the Dead”), and Thomas Dekker (“Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles”).

This venture marks a significant return to behind-the-camera work for Kilborn, over a decade after he penned and executive produced “The Kilborn File” in 2010. He is widely recognized for hosting “The Late Late Show with Craig Kilborn” on CBS from 1999 to 2004, and his most recent on-screen appearance was an episode of “United We Fall” in 2020.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the project, Kilborn shared a statement regarding the central character: “Griffin Gates is a unique voice with a rare combination of winsome self-absorption coupled with innate leadership skills. The Golden Griff lives above the fray, steadfastly refusing to participate in society’s dysfunction…until he’s forced to.” He added, “To bring ‘The Life Golden’ to the silver screen is incredibly satisfying. And remember, well-dressed and charming is the only way to go through life.”

“The Life Golden” has been in development for several years, with filming recently concluding in locations across Los Angeles and Oklahoma City. The film is currently in post-production, with a target release date set for 2027, promising a compelling and stylish cinematic experience for audiences.