Jason Kelce, the beloved Philadelphia Eagles icon, is taking his talents from the football field to the late-night television stage. This 37-year-old NFL legend recently announced an exciting new venture during his appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!—a show that promises to blend his love for football with his passion for entertainment.
New Late-Night Show on ESPN
Kelce is set to host a new late-night show titled They Call It Late Night with Jason Kelce, which will debut in January. This show will tape on Friday nights and will feature five episodes that air as the NFL regular season wraps up and the playoffs begin. "I loved late-night shows," Kelce shared with Kimmel, reminiscing about watching Conan O’Brien during sleepovers with friends.
What can fans expect from the show? Kelce promises a star-studded lineup, stating, "We’re going to have a bunch of guys up there—legends of the game, friends that I played with, coaches, celebrities." This blend of sports and entertainment is sure to draw in viewers from both realms, making it a must-watch for NFL fans and late-night enthusiasts alike.
Transitioning from Player to Analyst
After a brief retirement following the 2023 season, Kelce quickly found his footing in the media landscape. He joined ESPN’s Monday Night Countdown team, where he appears weekly from 6 PM to 8 PM ET, along with contributing to the halftime show. "Turns out, it was a short retirement!" he joked, reflecting on how he couldn’t stay away from the game he loves.
Kelce’s transition to broadcasting has been smooth, and he has embraced the opportunity to share his insights on the game. "ESPN was a consistent presence in our household growing up, and the network helped shape who I am and my love of all sports," he remarked. Being part of Monday Night Football is a dream come true for the former lineman, who is ready to bring his unique perspective to a national audience.
Podcasting with His Brother
In addition to his television work, Jason Kelce hosts a podcast called New Heights alongside his brother, Travis Kelce. The podcast, which airs every Wednesday, has gained a loyal following, showcasing the brothers’ chemistry and love for the game. When asked if Travis would make an appearance on his new ESPN show, Jason playfully replied, "He’s probably going to be busy," alluding to Travis’s pursuit of a third consecutive Super Bowl title with the Kansas City Chiefs. "Maybe he gets a first-round bye, and we can sneak him on for an episode," he added with a laugh.
Kelce’s Humble and Relatable Nature
Despite his fame and success, Jason Kelce remains grounded and relatable. He recently experienced a wardrobe malfunction while preparing for his Monday Night Countdown debut, having forgotten to pack a suit. Instead, he bought a new outfit at a gift shop, humorously admitting, "Packing is not my strength." This self-deprecating humor resonates with fans, showcasing his down-to-earth personality.
Even during his appearance on Kimmel, Kelce faced an unexpected moment when he was confronted by an angry fan outside the studio. Footage of the encounter showed him being heckled, but in true Kelce fashion, he later took the time to sign autographs and shake hands, demonstrating his commitment to his supporters.
Looking Ahead
As the NFL season progresses, fans are eager to see how Jason Kelce will balance his new roles. With his late-night show debuting soon and his ongoing commitments to ESPN, he is sure to keep busy. The excitement surrounding his new ventures is palpable, and many are looking forward to seeing how he combines his football expertise with entertainment.
Kelce’s passion for the game and his love for engaging with fans make him an ideal host for his upcoming show. He is poised to bring a fresh perspective to late-night television, and his unique blend of humor and sports knowledge will undoubtedly resonate with audiences.
In a world where sports and entertainment often collide, Jason Kelce stands out as a figure who embodies both. His journey from NFL star to media personality is just beginning, and fans can’t wait to see what he has in store. Whether it’s sharing stories from his playing days or interviewing fellow athletes and celebrities, Kelce is ready to entertain and inform, making his mark on the world of sports media.
