As the clock strikes 1:37 AM tonight, the curtain falls on After Midnight, marking the end of a remarkable chapter in comedic history. Initially launched on Comedy Central in 2013 as @midnight with Chris Hardwick, the show returned seven years later on CBS with comedian Taylor Tomlinson at the helm. This revival, while short-lived, served as a refreshing and chaotic playground for comedians, allowing them to embrace their weirdness and creativity.
The show became a sanctuary for humor, a platform where laughter reigned supreme and spontaneity flourished. In a time when many television programs have shifted toward rigid formatting and cautious humor, After Midnight proved to be a beacon of freedom. With that freedom came an outpouring of heartfelt reflections from the comedians who graced its stage. We reached out to some of them to capture their thoughts on what made the show special.
Uniqueness of the Show
Paul F. Tompkins, a frequent guest who made ten appearances, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be part of such a unique format. For him, After Midnight was a long-awaited return to television, filling a void left by the scarcity of platforms showcasing stand-up comedians. He appreciated the environment cultivated by the crew and writers, which encouraged spontaneity and allowed for the authentic expression of humor.
Lisa Gilroy likened the experience to a McDonald’s play place for comedians: a place filled with fun, albeit a bit messy. This sentiment echoed across the board, as many, like Guy Branum, noted that the show felt alive and evolving. It presented a space for beauty and chaos, often leading to unexpected comedic brilliance.
Comedians such as Marcella Arguello highlighted the rarity of such inclusive platforms that promote diverse comedic styles in a respectful environment. For many, the show became more than a gig; it transformed into a cherished experience that celebrated individuality and creativity.
Taylor Tomlinson: The Captain of Chaos
Taylor Tomlinson’s role as host left a lasting impression on the comedians who appeared on After Midnight. Described as a "queen" and a "captain of the ship," her natural command over the stage coupled with genuine warmth helped create a welcoming atmosphere. Comedians praised her ability to balance fun with professionalism, making it easy for everyone to shine.
Kurt Braunohler, who has known Taylor for years, lauded her effortless performance style and incredible writing skills. Her presence made the show not just enjoyable but also a meaningful experience for those involved. Fellow comedian Maria Bamford echoed this sentiment, noting the delightful, low-pressure environment that Taylor and the crew fostered.
Memories of Laughter and Connection
As After Midnight comes to a close, the shared memories of laughter and camaraderie stand out prominently. From playful yet absurd games to moments of genuine connection, many guest comedians recounted their favorite experiences. For example, Paul F. Tompkins fondly remembers standing on increasingly tall boxes next to Joe Manganiello, mixing physical humor with competitive spirit.
The absurdity of the games turned into unforgettable moments, as comedians recalled instances where they competed not just for points but for the joy of creativity. Irene Tu humorously pointed out that the arbitrary points and bizarre challenges added to the uniqueness of every episode, keeping everyone on their toes and ensuring pure fun.
Many of them also reminisced about the talented team behind the scenes. From the writers to the warm-up comic Percy Rustomji, who brought unmatched energy to the set, it was a collective effort that made the chaos work so well. The positive, collaborative vibe among everyone involved was integral to the show’s appeal.
Looking Forward
As we bid farewell to After Midnight, it is essential to recognize its impact on the comedy landscape. In a time where late-night formats can often feel stale, this show breathed new life into the genre, challenging the norms and inviting comedians to showcase their authentic selves on a national platform.
The voices of those who participated resonate with gratitude and appreciation. They recognize that opportunities like those presented on After Midnight are rare in today’s media landscape. As they move forward, their collective experiences will undoubtedly influence the future of comedic programming.
In its final moments, After Midnight leaves behind not just a legacy of laughter but also an important reminder: that comedy thrives on creativity, spontaneity, and the willingness to embrace the weird. As the credits roll, the echoes of joyous laughter will linger, reminding us of the beauty of being genuinely funny.
The series finale of After Midnight airs on CBS tonight at 12:37 AM and will be available for streaming the next day on Paramount+. From all of us in the comedy community, we bid the show a heartfelt goodnight. Thank you for letting us be weird and for the memories that will last a lifetime.
