After weeks of tightly guarded negotiations, Saturday Night Live veteran Seth Meyers has inked a deal to succeed Jimmy Fallon in NBC’s 12:35 a.m. Late Night slot. The announcement comes a day before NBC will present its new fall wares to Madison Avenue buyers. Lorne Michaels will executive produce both shows, with Michael Shoemaker remaining with the Late Night franchise as producer.
“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 entertainment chairman Bob Greenblatt in a statement announcing the news Sunday. Meyers, 39, has been with SNL for 12 years, and has served as head writer for eight. “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.”
Added Meyers of the new gig: “I only have to work for Lorne for five more years before I pay him back for the time I totaled his car. 12:30 on NBC has long been incredible real estate. I hope I can do it justice.”
For the time being, NBC is staying quiet on a premiere date as well as a format for Late Night With Seth Meyers.
