In a bittersweet moment for late-night television, Taylor Tomlinson delivered her final monologue on CBS's 'After Midnight' on Thursday night, marking the end of the show's run. Tomlinson, who announced her departure in March, expressed both gratitude for the opportunity and disappointment that CBS opted to cancel the show entirely instead of seeking a replacement host.
"Hosting 'After Midnight' has genuinely been the experience of a lifetime," Tomlinson stated, reflecting on her unexpected journey into the late-night arena. "I never thought that I would be able to host a late-night show. This was never something that was on my vision board at all... While unfortunately I couldn't keep doing this show, it just wasn't sustainable for me, I can't believe that I got to do it as long as I did." Her initial hope was to pass the torch to another comedian, believing in the abundance of talent capable of revitalizing the format.
Tomlinson, known for her stand-up career, including a finalist spot on 'Last Comic Standing' and her special 'Quarter-Life Crisis,' chose to return to full-time stand-up touring. The cancellation marks the end of a show that aimed to capture the spirit of its predecessor, '@midnight with Chris Hardwick,' by showcasing comedians in a playful and spontaneous environment.
Comedians who frequented 'After Midnight' shared their sentiments on the show's unique appeal. Paul F. Tompkins, a frequent guest, highlighted the supportive atmosphere created by the crew and writers, allowing comedians to be spontaneous and collaborative. Lisa Gilroy likened the show to a "McDonald’s play place for comedians," emphasizing its unpretentious and fun-loving nature.
The cancellation of 'After Midnight' leaves a void in the late-night landscape, a space where comedians could experiment and connect with audiences in a lighthearted and engaging manner. While Tomlinson returns to her stand-up roots, the absence of 'After Midnight' will be felt by both its viewers and the comedians who found a home on its stage.