Though NBC has been the subject of ridicule due to what is now being dubbed as “The Tonight Show Conundrum”, that doesn’t seem to have phased them as they are ramping up the upcoming awards season with two new hosts.
Last week, the network announced that Ricky Gervais will be returning to host this year’s Golden Globes, making it his second year in a row as the host. On the heels of that announcement, NBC has also named Jimmy Fallon as the host of the 62nd Primetime Emmy Awards. From Live Feed:
“Jimmy was the natural choice as one of the most promising and likable young entertainers who will now have the chance to display his many talents on television’s biggest night,” said Paul Telegdy, executive vp of alternative at NBC. “His proven skills as a comedian and host — as well as his openness to new ideas — will fully engage audiences and ultimately deliver a lively Emmy telecast.”
Added executive producer Don Mischer: “Jimmy has many talents. He can sing, he can dance, he does impersonations, and he does it gracefully and with ease. I think he’ll make a terrific host and we are really looking forward to working with him.”
This would be the most valid choice, for NBC, to keep it in the family. They had chosen Conan O’Brien as the host of the previous two NBC broadcasts, which is obviously not an option any more. Also, with the bad press surrounding Leno, they wouldn’t want to feed into that by having him host a show like this.
It may be the default decision, but it could also be a smart one. Fallon has done great things for Conan’s old show, opening up late night television to a new and younger audience. Perhaps he can do the same with the awards ceremony.
The 62nd Primetime Emmy Awards will air on NBC on August 29th.
