by Two summers ago, FOX gave a trial run to a late-night almost live joke-off among comedians called Punchline. It was kind of like Comedy Central’s @midnight, but simpler. Comedians really were riffing off the top of their heads on Punchline.
FOX is giving Punchline a second chance this summer. But with a new host in Melissa Peterman. And some other changes, according to the showrunners.
“We loved this summer test when we did it two years ago, and now with a few tweaks and a new superstar, comic host Melissa Peterman, we think we have a fresh summertime hit for our stations,” said Stephen Brown, FOX’s executive vice president for programming and development.
The show’s creators and EPs remain the same as in 2017: Dave Noll and Cleve Keller.
Peterman’s past TV credits include hosting The Singing Bee on CMT and Bet on Your Baby for ABC. She’s also acted on Young Sheldon, Reba and Baby Daddy. “I am a game show fan, and hosting is something I love — add in brilliant comedians, and it is a winning combination,” Peterman said in the official statement from FOX. “I am excited to work with Dave and Cleve. I love the shows they create. I know I am in good hands.”
The second trial run starts Monday night, July 15, 2019, on FOX stations in 28 markets, including NYC, Los Angeles and Chicago. You’ll have to check your local listings to see when it airs near you.
