Jason KelseyThe 'new' venture into late night television programming was met with optimism.
Less than three weeks later They call it Late Night with Jason Kelsey It premiered on ESPN, and one industry leader believes the Super Bowl champion may have what it takes to succeed in the competitive landscape.
“If the show is good and the content is great, people will find it,” Emmy Award-winning producer Lindsey Shookus — who worked on Saturday Night Live For over a decade – shared with New York Times In an interview published on Thursday, January 23. “I think the ESPN team and Jason have to do their best and find the format that will allow him to shine.”
While the offer may It is already included Special appearances from Kylie KelseyCommissioner of the NFL Roger Goodell And the rapper Lil Dicky, They call it late at night He is also prone to sketches and pranks.
According to Shookus, unscripted sports discussions were a strength for Kelce after he started working as an analyst for ESPN. Monday night countdown In fall 2024.
“He's not a comedian, and I don't think you can ask him to suddenly become a comedian,” Shookus explained. “I think in order to break through, you have to capture his true image.”
Although Kelce, 37, has spent much of his career focused on football — he spent his entire 13-year career as a center for the Philadelphia Eagles — the “New Heights” podcast host has been exploring new career paths since To announce his retirement. From the NFL in March 2024.
When it was Signed a multi-year deal To be an analyst for ESPN, he negotiated the concept of a late-night show into his contract.
“I love late-night shows,” Kelsey said during a November 2024 appearance on ABC. Jimmy Kimmel Live! “I've always loved them. I remember sleeping watching Conan O'Brien with my friends.
like They call it Late Night with Jason Kelsey The broadcast continues Saturdays at 1 a.m. ESPN's Chief Content Officer, Burke Magnusis confident that Kelce has what it takes to create a unique and successful show.
““It's not something I think would work for anyone, but he's one of those guys that I think can pull it off,” Magnus said. New York Times. “For me, it would be more art than science. Do people think it's good and funny? Does it have the potential to grow?”
They call it Late Night with Jason Kelsey It airs on ESPN Saturdays at 1 a.m. ET.