Retired All-Pro lineman Jason Kelce made a splash with the premiere of his late-night talk show, 'They Call It Late Night with Jason Kelce,' on ESPN. The show, which aired at 1 a.m. EST, featured Kelce in a raw and uncensored role as the host, bringing a unique blend of sports commentary and entertainment to the late-night television landscape.
Kelce, known for his colorful personality and iconic Super Bowl parade speech, showcased his comedic chops by engaging in banter with guests such as Charles Barkley, rapper Lil Dicky, and NFL analyst Brian Baldinger. The show also featured a live audience, including dedicated fans who lined up early for a chance to attend the taping.
With a nod to NFL Films and a Philly-centric vibe, 'They Call It Late Night' aimed to celebrate the NFL landscape, past and present. Kelce's wife, Kylie, served as the foul-mouthed sidekick, adding to the show's authentic and unfiltered tone.
The debut episode, taped at Philly concert venue Union Transfer, featured a mix of comedy, music, and sports talk, with Kelce embracing his role as a late-night host with enthusiasm. Despite the use of profanity and edgy humor, Kelce emphasized the importance of authenticity and staying true to himself.
While the show's future beyond its initial five-episode run remains uncertain, Kelce expressed optimism about the potential for a late-night sports talk show, especially during the football season. The debut episode received positive feedback from fans and guests alike, setting the stage for a potentially successful venture into late-night television for the retired NFL star.
As Kelce reflected on the show's premiere, he likened it to a game day experience, acknowledging room for improvement but expressing satisfaction with the overall performance. With his charismatic presence and entertaining style, Kelce has carved out a new role for himself in the world of late-night television, offering fans a fresh and unfiltered take on sports and entertainment.