In the end, NBC went with the predictable choice.
The Peacock officially confirmed Sunday that “Saturday Night Live” cast member and head writer Seth Meyers will take over as host of “Late Night” once that post becomes open in 2014.
Current “Late Night” host Jimmy Fallon takes over “The Tonight Show” from Jay Leno next year, which gave NBC an opportunity to identify the next “Late Night” host, who would follow previous hosts David Letterman, Conan O’Brien and Jimmy Fallon.
There had been speculation NBC might shake the late-night scene up with an unconventional candidate, perhaps even a female comedian, but the network ultimately played it according to the usual prototype.
“We think Seth is one of the brightest, most insightful comedy writers and performers of his generation. His years at SNL’s ‘Weekend Update’ desk, not to mention being head writer of the show for many seasons, helped him hone a topical brand of comedy that is perfect for the ‘Late Night’ franchise,” said Greenblatt, “On behalf of Steve Burke, Ted Harbert and Paul Telegdy, we couldn’t be happier that Seth and Jimmy Fallon will be continuing their careers at NBC after growing up in this network’s late night legacy.”
NBC has not yet confirmed the official premiere date for “Late Night with Seth Meyers.”
