Blast from the past: Arsenio Hall is returning to late-night TV — next year — according to the Hollywood Reporter. On Monday CBS Television Distribution President John Nogawski explained why his network thinks the time is right for the host's return:
"Arsenio had a substantial following with his previous late-night show, and that same 18-34 audience is now right in the middle of the late-night core audience of 35-54. Years ago he transcended time periods and attracted a crossover audience while bringing a fresh perspective to late night," he said, adding, "That same need in the market exists today as when we originally launched. We are looking forward to the same success with Arsenio's seasoned expertise and appeal in this genre."
Hall's new Monday-Friday entry will bow in fall 2013, with CBSTVD partnering with Tribune broadcasting stations for the show, which already has been sold in the top 10 markets and 17 of the top 20 — covering 52 percent of the country. With Tribune aboard, the strip will launch on 17 stations including WPIX New York and KTLA Los Angeles at 11 p.m. and WGN Chicago at 10 p.m.
In May, Hall defeated former American Idol contestant Clay Aiken to be crowned the fifth-cycle winner of NBC's Donald Trump-hosted Celebrity Apprentice and has been vocal with his desire to return to the talk-show circuit.
Recent speculation indicated that Hall would return to the small screen as the host of a syndicated daytime talk show.
"It's an amazing feeling to be going home to my old friends and colleagues and firing up our 'Night Thing,' " Hall said. "Let's get busy … again!"
Have you missed him? Will you be watching?
Read more at the Hollywood Reporter.
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