How to Get Booked on a Late Night Show

Hello, comedy aficionados! It’s ANT, your delightful sage of standup, back with more pearls of comedic wisdom. Today, we’re diving into the holy grail of many a comedian’s career—getting booked on a late night show. It’s not just about being funny (though that helps). It’s about navigating the process with precision, professionalism, and a dash of pizzazz.

1. Hone Your Craft

First things first, you need to be undeniably good. Late night bookers are looking for comics who have a polished act that’s TV-ready. That means you’ve been working your material in clubs, open mics, and showcases until every punchline hits harder than a toddler on a sugar high.

2. Know Your Brand

Late night shows want comedians who bring something unique to the table. What’s your voice? Your perspective? Your thing? Are you the quirky observationalist, the biting social commentator, or the awkward everyman? Nail down what makes you stand out. When bookers see your set, they should immediately think, “That’s you.”

3. Build a Killer Tape

This isn’t the ‘90s, so no VHS submissions, please. Create a high-quality video of your best five minutes. It should be shot in a well-lit venue with clear audio and a lively audience. And no shaky handheld camera work, unless you’re auditioning for a horror film. A killer tape can be your golden ticket.

4. Network Like a Pro

It’s not just what you know; it’s who knows you. Attend industry showcases, comedy festivals, and events where you can rub elbows with bookers, agents, and other comics. Be professional, approachable, and—most importantly—genuinely funny. Your reputation can open doors that your jokes alone might not.

5. Tailor Your Material

Late night audiences are diverse, so your material should have broad appeal. Keep it clean (or TV-clean), smart, and tight. Avoid overly niche or divisive topics. Watch the show you’re targeting and pay attention to the type of humor they feature. Does your comedy fit their vibe? If not, tweak it until it does.

6. Submit Strategically

Many late night shows have submission processes—find out what they are and follow them to the letter. Some bookers accept tapes through agents or managers, while others take submissions directly from comedians. Don’t spam every show with the same generic email. Customize your pitch to each one, highlighting why you’re a great fit.

7. Work With an Agent or Manager

While it’s not impossible to land a late night gig on your own, having an agent or manager can make the process smoother. They have relationships with bookers and can pitch you in ways that you might not be able to do on your own. If you don’t have one yet, focus on building a track record that will attract representation.

8. Be Persistent but Patient

Getting booked on a late night show is often a long game. Keep refining your act, submitting tapes, and building your career. Don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t happen overnight. Some of the biggest names in comedy faced rejection before their breakthrough.

9. Prepare for the Spotlight

Once you’ve landed the gig, the real work begins. Work with the show’s producers to fine-tune your set for TV. Practice until you can do it backward in your sleep. On the big day, stay calm, stay confident, and remember to have fun—you’re living the dream!

Final Thoughts

Getting booked on a late night show is a milestone, not the finish line. It’s a platform to showcase your talent to millions and open doors to even bigger opportunities. So, put in the work, stay true to your voice, and never stop chasing that spotlight. You’ve got this, superstar.

And hey, if all else fails, just tell them ANT sent you. That’ll at least get a laugh. 😉