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Taylor Tomlinson: The new face of late-night comedy
In early June, the Paramount lot in Los Angeles buzzed with excitement as Taylor Tomlinson, the 30-year-old comedian, took center stage for her new gig hosting “After Midnight.” This CBS late-night entry, a blend of panel, game show, and comedy showcase, has quickly become a must-watch. With guests like Joe Manganiello, who surprised everyone with his uncanny Mark Wahlberg impression, the show promises endless laughter and unexpected moments.
The rise of Taylor Tomlinson
Tomlinson’s journey to late-night stardom is nothing short of inspiring. Starting stand-up comedy at the tender age of 16, she was initially driven by her father’s encouragement. Her first performance, a graduation show from a comedy class, was a mix of self-deprecation and youthful charm. “I was insecure and self-deprecating, but it was a very supportive audience,” she recalls.
Despite her early success, Tomlinson faced significant challenges, including anxiety and stage fright. Yet, she persevered, performing on the church circuit and eventually making her way to comedy clubs and open mics. By the age of 19, she realized comedy could be a viable career, leading her to drop out of college and fully commit to her craft.
A pivotal moment in her career came when Judi Marmel, a founding partner at Levity Live, discovered her. Marmel’s belief in Tomlinson’s talent led to significant opportunities, including her first Netflix special, “Quarter Life Crisis,” in 2020.
The making of “After Midnight”
When Stephen Colbert, the executive producer of “After Midnight,” first selected Tomlinson for the job, he was impressed by her ability to navigate the world of social media while maintaining a healthy skepticism. “What I didn’t expect was how someone so young can be so confident in the role and adaptable to changes so fluidly,” Colbert remarked.
Tomlinson’s natural talent and adaptability have made her a standout host. The show, which debuted on January 17, continues to evolve, with Tomlinson delivering monologues and engaging with guests effortlessly. Her ability to put guests at ease and keep the audience entertained has made her a favorite among viewers.
The unique appeal of Taylor Tomlinson
Describing what makes Tomlinson stand out as a comedian can be challenging. She’s gregarious, warm, and has killer timing. Her ability to be a truth-teller while remaining relatable to her audience sets her apart. Her most recent special, “Have It All,” delves into personal topics like her bisexuality and mental health struggles, all while maintaining a humorous and relatable tone.
Tomlinson’s work ethic and talent have earned her a spot on Billboard’s list of the 10 highest-grossing comics on tour in 2023, alongside heavyweights like Kevin Hart and Dave Chappelle. Despite her success, she remains humble and focused on her first love: stand-up comedy.
Balancing late-night and stand-up
Tomlinson’s commitment to stand-up comedy played a significant role in her decision to host “After Midnight.” The show’s schedule, which tapes three days a week, allows her to continue performing stand-up on weekends. Working with Colbert has been a dream come true for Tomlinson, who praises him for his guidance and support.
The guest list on “After Midnight” is diverse, featuring top comics like Patton Oswalt and Pete Holmes, as well as actors like Haley Joel Osment. Tomlinson’s ability to make every guest feel comfortable and appreciated has contributed to the show’s success.
Looking ahead
With “After Midnight” already picked up for a second season, Tomlinson’s future looks bright. She has several other projects in the works, including an international and domestic tour and feature scripts with her writing partner Taylor Tetreau. Reflecting on her journey, Tomlinson notes, “I feel like my life is much fuller than it was a few years ago. I’m realizing it’s important in entertainment to be able to do more than one thing, to diversify my ego.”
As Tomlinson continues to break new ground in the world of comedy, one thing is clear: the sky’s the limit for this talented comedian. Whether she’s hosting “After Midnight” or performing stand-up, Tomlinson’s unique voice and perspective are sure to keep audiences laughing for years to come.
For more information and to watch the trailer for “After Midnight,” visit https://trailers.movieetv.com/search/after-midnight.
