CNN ventures into comedy with new Saturday night show
A fresh comedic twist on news
CNN is expanding its repertoire by adding a touch of humor to its traditionally serious news lineup. The network has announced a new Saturday-night series, “Have I Got News For You,” featuring comedy veterans Amber Ruffin and Michael Ian Black. This ten-episode series, inspired by its long-running BBC counterpart, is set to premiere on Saturday, September 14, at 9 p.m., with Roy Wood Jr. as the host.
A blend of humor and news
Amber Ruffin expressed her excitement about the new venture, stating, “It is an honor to get to work with comedy favorites Michael Ian Black and Roy Wood Jr. It is our hope that this show will take people from saying, ‘This is CNN.’ to ‘THIS is CNN!?!?'” Ruffin, known for her work on NBC’s “Late Night with Seth Meyers,” brings a unique comedic perspective to the show.
Michael Ian Black, with his characteristic wit, added, “I’m thrilled to be joining Roy Wood Jr. and Amber Ruffin as ‘Have I Got News For You’s’ DEI hire. I’m looking forward to spreading as much disinformation as possible on America’s most trusted news network – my main focus has been, and will continue to be, pleasing my handlers in the Kremlin.”
The show’s format and legacy
“Have I Got News For You” has been a staple on the BBC since 1990, known for its satirical take on current events. The show typically features two teams discussing and dissecting the week’s news stories, often leading to humorous and sometimes controversial commentary. The U.K. version has faced legal scrutiny over the years due to the bold statements made by its panelists.
CNN’s strategic move into comedy
This new series is part of CNN’s broader strategy to diversify its content. The network has already been airing rebroadcasts of Bill Maher’s HBO roundtable program, “Real Time.” According to Amy Entelis, CNN’s executive vice president of talent and content, the network aims to offer viewers a break from the intense news cycle with lighter, more entertaining content. “Weekend viewers might like a break from the intensity of the news week with programs about lifestyle or have a laugh about something and maybe be able to connect to a personality who wouldn’t necessarily be anchoring a show on CNN or even an original series,” she said.
The comedic talents behind the show
Amber Ruffin first gained recognition as a writer and contributor to NBC’s “Late Night with Seth Meyers,” becoming the first Black woman to write for a U.S. late-night broadcast talk program. She later hosted her own show on NBC’s Peacock streaming service and recently contributed to the Broadway revival of “The Wiz.”
Michael Ian Black is a seasoned actor, writer, and comedian who began his career with the sketch comedy troupe The State. He co-created several television shows, including “Viva Variety,” “Stella,” and “Michael & Michael Have Issues.” Black has also starred in series like “Ed” and “The Jim Gaffigan Show” and appeared in films such as “This Is 40.” His diverse career includes hosting game shows and leading podcasts.
A new era for CNN
With “Have I Got News For You,” CNN is stepping into uncharted territory, blending news with comedy to create a unique viewing experience. This move reflects a growing trend in media to offer more varied content that can engage audiences in different ways. As the network continues to explore new formats, viewers can look forward to a refreshing mix of humor and news on their Saturday nights.
For more information and to watch the trailer, visit Have I Got News For You.
This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of CNN’s new comedy series, “Have I Got News For You,” highlighting the show’s format, the talents involved, and the network’s strategic move into lighter content. By blending humor with news, CNN hopes to offer viewers a unique and entertaining experience.