Channel 4 to launch nightly topical comedy show
Channel 4 is looking to launch a new nightly topical comedy entertainment show. If The Late List is commissioned, it will be broadcast nightly at 11pm, with episodes recorded just a few hours before transmission to ensure the show is as topical as possible.
No details have yet been announced on who will appear on the pilot, however the channel says that the programme will be presented by "a mix of established and new talent".
The producers add: "Made up of a combination of celebrity guests and comedy VTs, The Late List will bring you everything you need to know about 'today' whether it's news, entertainment, sport or anything else that may prove a springboard to great comic material. Essentially, if it's not on The Late List, it's not worth knowing. The Late List will be informative, fresh and, above all, funny!!!"
This will be Channel 4's latest attempt at emulating the success of American late-night topical comedy programmes like The Daily Show. In 2008 it broadcast Tonightly - hosted by Jason Manford and Andi Osho, but the show was panned by critics and thus was not re-commissioned. The broadcaster tried out a similar format in 2009 with The TNT Show, a weekly show hosted by Jack Whitehall and Holly Walsh - but, again, this project was considered a flop. However, the channel's most recent late night comedy effort - Stand Up For The Week - has been a hit for the broadcaster with a second series now commissioned.
Editor's Note: Shortly after this story was published Channel 4 announced the commission of a different late night topical comedy show. Full Story