The Nightly Show’s latest host Jason Manford had a witty retort for a critic who suggested Hitler would be a better presenter, joking: “He’s next week mate.”
The comedian is the latest celebrity to take over ITV’s much-maligned topical entertainment programme, which has struggled in the ratings and has frequently been panned by viewers.
As he got started on his stint, critics flooded social media to comment on his presenting skills.
Has @JasonManford ever said anything funny? I'd prefer Hitler to host The Nightly Show than this unfunny fat Michael Owen lookalike.
— Scott Morgan (@ScottFMorgan) April 10, 2017
He's next week mate. https://t.co/w495tSc7ql
— JasonManford (@JasonManford) April 10, 2017
He showed off his sense of humour again when another viewer said he was “nearly as good” as previous host Bradley Walsh.
@TVChatty @JasonManford Nearly as good as @BradleyWalsh #TheNightlyShow
— Karen Owen (@exexpatkaren) April 10, 2017
Brad's the king https://t.co/PYFQqg3sph
— JasonManford (@JasonManford) April 10, 2017
The programme is attempting to replicate the late-night shows popular in the US and is running for eight weeks with a different host each week.Most of the presenters, including David Walliams, Davina McCall and John Bishop, have come in for some stick with the viewing public, although both Dermot O’Leary and Bradley were generally considered to be a good fit.Jason went on social media before his run got under way to jokingly complain that the day’s news did not have any good material for him to makes jokes about.He told his 241,000 followers on Twitter: “Looking at the papers for tonight’s @ITVNightlyShow! Jesus! Depressing! I will not be going particularly satirical this week! Just fun!”Despite receiving some criticism online, many viewers thought Jason did well in his first night on the programme.
@JasonManford Well done on #TheNightlyShow – smashed it x
— Ita (@dumbleit) April 10, 2017
@JasonManford @ITV #thenightlyshow Jason Manford proved you don't have to swear or do stupid stuff to present a show!!
— Barbara Miller (@Barbymargy) April 10, 2017
Jason said afterwards that he was pleased with his debut, where he chatted to guests Matt Lucas and Ricky Tomlinson.
Well my 1st @ITVNightlyShow seemed to go well! Nervous obviously but @RealMattLucas & Ricky Tomlinson were great fun.
— JasonManford (@JasonManford) April 10, 2017