by Back in the mid-2000s, Comedy Central boasted weekly episodes of The Showbiz Show with David Spade and Crank Yankers.
Is it 2005 again?
Both Spade and the prank phone-call puppets are returning to Comedy Central in 2019.
This time, though, Spade will take over nightly duties in the 11:30 p.m. slot following The Daily Show with Trevor Noah. Spade’s new comedy commentary series has no formal title yet, but it will include a rotating group of Spade’s comedian and celebrity friends, while also incorporating field segments that mirror his popular Instagram stories. It’s executive produced by Spade, Alex Murray and Marc Gurvitz. Brad Wollack and Tom Brunelle of Free 90 Media serve as executive producers and showrunners.
Comedy Central also ordered 20 new episodes of Crank Yankers, marking the beloved series’ return to the brand. It originally aired from 2002-2005 on the network, featuring prank phone calls made by comedians and celebrities. Only now it’s updated for social media, e-sport platforms and everywhere else. This will be Jimmy Kimmel’s first project for his newly formed production banner KIMMELOT. Jonathan Kimmel will serve as showrunner and executive producer, joined by executive producers/creators Jimmy Kimmel, Adam Carolla and Daniel Kellison. “Crank Yankers has always been my favorite show to make. Nothing is more fun or makes me laugh harder than a great crank call and I am thrilled that Comedy Central asked us to do it again,” said Jimmy Kimmel. “At this time, I would like to ask all Americans to disable their caller ID. Thank you.”
