Retired Eagles All-Pro Jason Kelce kicked off his new late-night show, "They Call It Late Night with Jason Kelce," on ESPN Friday. The debut episode, taped before a live audience in Philadelphia, showcased Kelce's unique brand of humor and sports commentary.
Kelce, known for his outspoken personality both on and off the field, brought a raw energy to the show. He delivered his monologue with a healthy dose of profanity, a departure from the more traditional late-night format. The show, part of a multi-year agreement with ESPN, will air for five episodes during the final weeks of the NFL season.
The show features a panel of sports personalities, including Charles Barkley, Lil Dicky, and Brian Baldinger. Kelce sought guidance from late-night icon Jimmy Kimmel, incorporating Kimmel's advice to streamline his hosting style. Guests participated in a lively discussion of current and historical sports events, and Kelce engaged in banter with the panel, and answered audience questions. A highlight involved a fan from New Jersey asking Kelce to his wedding, eliciting a humorous response from the former player.
The show embraced a Philadelphia-centric theme. Guests referenced the Eagles and Kelce’s Philadelphia roots, including a skit featuring a fan feeding him hoagies. While focusing on a Philly audience, Kelce emphasized a broader national appeal for the show. The choice of the show's title, paying tribute to NFL Films' iconic documentary, "They Call It Pro Football," was a noteworthy aspect of the show's concept.
The show, produced in Philadelphia, is a blend of sports humor and Kelce’s distinctive personality. It taps into his growing popularity after retirement, which includes prominent endorsements and podcasting.
Kelce emphasized the show's aim to celebrate the entire NFL landscape—past and present—rather than just current events. This distinctive approach distinguishes the show within the late-night entertainment landscape. Kelce described the show’s production as a “game day” experience, acknowledging potential areas for improvement. The show's authenticity, reflected in Kelce's use of profanity, was a key element, though Kelce acknowledged careful consideration of its application.
"They Call It Late Night with Jason Kelce" premiered Friday at 1 a.m. EST on ESPN and will continue for four more episodes. The show's run coincides with the NFL season's conclusion, further highlighting its sports-centric appeal.
