Jason Kelce Brings Philly Flair to Late-Night Television/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Jason Kelce, retired Eagles star and Super Bowl champion, debuted as a late-night host on ESPN’s “They Call It Late Night.” The Philadelphia-based show, infused with humor, sports, and a raw edge, featured guests like Charles Barkley and Lil Dicky.
Jason Kelce’s Late-Night Debut: Quick Looks
- Show Premiere: Kelce debuted “They Call It Late Night” on ESPN, blending humor, sports, and Philly pride.
- Star Guests: Charles Barkley, Lil Dicky, and Brian Baldinger joined the panel.
- Philly Vibes: Local flair included a live band, hoagie humor, and Eagles nostalgia.
- Authentic Tone: Kelce’s unfiltered style brought locker room talk to late-night TV.
- Limited Run: The show will tape five episodes during the NFL season.
Jason Kelce Brings Philly Flair to Late-Night Television
Deep Look
Jason Kelce, retired Philadelphia Eagles center and beloved Super Bowl champion, made his late-night TV debut with the premiere of “They Call It Late Night with Jason Kelce” on ESPN. The one-hour show aired early Saturday morning and featured a mix of humor, sports commentary, and Philly-centric antics that reflected Kelce’s larger-than-life personality.
A Philly-Centric Late Night
Kelce opened the show with a humorous bit involving Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field—literally talking to the stadium—before touring the city in his Eagles-themed golf cart while dressed in his iconic Mummer’s costume from the Super Bowl parade.
“I used to love watching late-night TV growing up,” Kelce said, reflecting on his inspiration for the show.
The Philadelphia-based concert venue Union Transfer served as the perfect backdrop, with local band Snacktime providing live music and Kelce’s wife, Kylie, playing the witty sidekick in “Kylie’s Korner.”
Star-Studded Guest List
Kelce’s first panel of guests included basketball legend Charles Barkley, rapper and actor Lil Dicky, and NFL analyst Brian Baldinger. The group tackled sports topics, shared laughs, and even channeled NFL Films’ iconic narration style to describe modern football highlights.
Barkley, never shy to hype up Philadelphia fans, confidently predicted another Super Bowl win for the Eagles, earning cheers from the audience.
A Raw and Real Approach
Kelce’s transition from NFL locker rooms to late-night TV brought an authentic, unpolished vibe. Uncensored language and playful banter defined the debut episode.
“We wanted the language to be real and authentic to me,” Kelce said. “We overdid it a little today to prep the audience, but I think it’s important to keep it natural.”
From throwing F-bombs in his monologue to laughing alongside fans, Kelce’s personality shone through. The show even featured a skit with his parents and a lighthearted competition to find the fastest beer chugger.
A Limited ESPN Run
“They Call It Late Night” will tape four more episodes, airing weekly during the final stretch of the NFL season and playoffs. Whether it becomes a long-term fixture remains uncertain.
“We wanted to try something fun,” Kelce explained. “There’s room for this, especially during football season.”
A Growing Media Presence
The show is the latest addition to Kelce’s growing media portfolio. Alongside his brother, Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce, he co-hosts the “New Heights” podcast, which recently dethroned Joe Rogan as Spotify’s top podcast.
Kelce has also become a prolific pitchman, appearing in commercials for brands ranging from chicken wings to laundry detergent. His jump into late-night hosting seems like a natural evolution for the ever-charismatic former athlete.
Reception and Outlook
Fans and guests alike praised the unique energy of Kelce’s show. Eagles fan Caleb Tinley, one of 300 audience members, called it “an unforgettable experience,” likening it to Kelce’s legendary Super Bowl parade speech.
The limited series offers Kelce a chance to test the waters in late-night television. With his blend of humor, relatability, and sports insight, Kelce may find himself carving out a niche in the crowded late-night landscape.
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