‘SNL’s Seth Meyers to take over Late Night

Last month it was announced that Jay Leno is going to re-retire as host of The Tonight Show in the spring 2014. His successor, Jimmy Fallon. With Fallon leaving his Late Night post, rumors began to swirl as to who would take over that soon-to-be vacant position. All signs pointed to SNL cast member, head writer, and anchor of Weekend Update Seth Meyers. The signs pointed the right direction.

Today NBC made it official that Seth Meyers, who has spent twelve seasons with SNL (eight as head writer, seven as Weekend Update anchor), will become the next host of Late Night after Jimmy Fallon transitions to The Tonight Show. Lorne Michaels will executive produce Late Night with Seth Meyers, along with The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, and Saturday Night Live. Michael Shoemaker will remain with Late Night as a producer.

“We think Seth is one of the brightest, most insightful comedy writers and performers of his generation,” said NBC chairman Bob Greenblatt. “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. 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, “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.”

Both Meyers and Fallon made the successful transition from the SNL Weekend Update desk to a late night host; so now the big question remains: who will replace Myers as Weekend Update anchor? Make sure to tune into SNL next Saturday (with host Ben Affleck and musical guest Kanye West) to watch what may very well be Meyers’ final go at the desk.

[Via Deadline]

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