The new horror-thriller “Late Night With the Devil” is making waves in the entertainment industry, starring David Dastmalchian as the host of “Night Owls With Jack Delroy.” Set on Halloween night in 1977, the movie takes a dark turn during a live broadcast of an occult-themed episode. Shot in a found-footage style that unearths a “lost” episode, the film is a satirical throwback to the era’s supernatural and religious fanaticism, with a notable nod to “The Exorcist.”
Now playing in theaters and streaming on Shudder starting April 22, “Late Night With the Devil” is just the latest in a string of late-night moments that have made their way to the big and small screens. Late-night hosts, both past and present, have lent their sets and sometimes themselves to various projects, while fictional nods and fake hosts have also popped up in movies and TV shows.
From the 1964 film “Looking for Love” starring Connie Francis to Martin Scorsese’s “The King of Comedy” in 1983, late-night television has been a recurring theme in popular culture. Shows like “The Larry Sanders Show” and movies like “The Late Shift” have delved into the behind-the-scenes drama of late-night hosting, offering a glimpse into the industry’s conflicts and power struggles.
Even popular sitcoms like “Seinfeld” have featured episodes centered around late-night talk shows, with memorable moments involving characters like Kramer setting up his own talk show in his apartment. Animated shows like “Space Ghost Coast to Coast” and comedies like “30 Rock” have also parodied the late-night talk show format, bringing a unique twist to the genre.
More recent shows like “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” and “BoJack Horseman” have continued to explore the world of late-night television, showcasing the highs and lows of the industry. With late-night hosts playing a significant role in shaping popular culture, it’s no surprise that their influence continues to be felt on both the big and small screens.
As “Late Night With the Devil” continues to captivate audiences with its unique blend of horror and satire, it’s clear that the legacy of late-night television will continue to inspire and entertain viewers for years to come.
