When Comedy Central’s comedy game show “@midnight” signed off in 2017, it left behind a legacy that anticipated challenges faced by late-night shows in the ever-evolving digital age. The show, designed to chronicle internet phenomena, faced the risk of becoming outdated as online platforms transformed. Fast forward to 2024, and CBS has taken a bold step by reviving the concept with “After Midnight,” hosted by the talented Taylor Tomlinson.
Premiering on January 16 in the time slot previously occupied by “The Late Late Show With James Corden,” “After Midnight” seeks to capture the essence of internet culture in a landscape where platforms like Twitter and the consumption of social media are constantly changing. The initial episodes, however, suggest that the format may not have strayed far from the original “@midnight.”
The revival maintains a panel of three comedians, engaging in a series of internet-themed games, a mix of new segments and familiar ones like the interactive Hashtag Wars and FTW. While the show has expanded to an hour-long format, the core structure appears to be largely unchanged. Taylor Tomlinson, known for her stand-up specials on Netflix and a vibrant presence on TikTok, leads the charge.
The premiere episode, delayed due to strike-related issues, retains the comedic banter and competitive spirit. Tomlinson introduces the show’s mission of making the internet fun and sets the tone with her humor, promising comedians the grand prize of her father’s approval. The format, characterized by comedic interactions, points, and playful banter, remains consistent with its predecessor.
New segments like “Group Chat,” “Tik Chopped,” “What I Can’t Live Without,” and “Suburban Dictionary” present a mixed bag, showcasing the show’s experimentation with different comedic concepts. “To Smash or Not to Smash” and a Jeopardy!-inspired segment after the first commercial break provide refreshing deviations from the established formula, offering comedians more room to engage with each other.
Variety reported that the premiere intentionally adopted a “lowkey” approach to allow the show to find its voice over the next few weeks. The soft launch on social media platforms, primarily YouTube, reflects a dynamic strategy, adapting to the changing landscape akin to the internet itself.
“As After Midnight continues its journey, it will navigate the challenges of internet-centric comedy, ensuring it remains relevant and resonates with a diverse audience. With Taylor Tomlinson at the helm, the show has the potential to carve its distinctive space in the late-night landscape, embracing the ever-changing nature of digital culture.”
