In the original incarnation of “@midnight”, a panel of three (usually comedians) competed in a series of improv games like “eBay Price Is Right”, “JuggalOK Cupid” and “Tumblr? I Don’t Know Him Much” to discuss current events. Of course, there was also probably the most popular game, “Hashtag Wars”, which involved interacting with people who weren’t watching the game, just surfing Twitter. But since the series ended in 2017, internet trends have changed and new social media platforms have come to the fore. So while games like this will likely make a comeback when the revival emerges, we may not see them fully.
Similarly, we probably won’t see ex-host Chris Hardwick. This Deadline The report specifically states that “no direct intervention is expected”. And there’s good reason for that. He came forward about his ex-girlfriend Chloe Dykstra in 2018. Hardwick’s history of emotional and sexual abuse. Podcast broadcaster, comedian, and pop culture personality had stepped out of her roles as San Diego Comic-Con moderator, Nerdist figure, and “Talking Dead” host. Although AMC reinstated him after an investigation (including a law firm) employment by spouse’s family, Lydia Hearst), they were basically the only entities to maintain a professional relationship. It has largely lapsed into obscurity at this point, with her formerly active social media and her once featured podcast lying dormant.
In Hardwick’s absence, this presents a great opportunity for up-and-coming or underutilized comics talent. We probably won’t know the new host for “@midnight” too late. But in the meantime, may I suggest Randall Park, Jameela Jamil or Nicole Byer as potential hosts? Seriously, let’s add some more colorful people to the scenery late at night. Please and thank you.