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Entertainment
Updated September 25, 2025
Seth Meyers
Seth Meyers is an American comedian and the host of Late Night with Seth Meyers. He is notable for his sharp political satire and popular A Closer Look segment.
Notable Facts
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Host Of Late Night With Seth Meyers
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Former Head Writer For Saturday Night Live
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Creator And Star Of The Sitcom The Awesomes
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Longtime Performer On Saturday Night Live
Career Highlights
Background
Seth Meyers was born on December 28, 1973, in Evanston, Illinois. He developed an interest in comedy and performance while studying at Northwestern University, where he was a member of the improv comedy group Mee-Ow. After graduating, Meyers pursued a career in comedy, performing at the ImprovOlympic and The Second City in Chicago. His big break came in 2001 when he was hired as a writer and performer on the NBC sketch comedy series Saturday Night Live (SNL). He quickly became a featured player and was promoted to head writer in 2006, a position he held for many years. Meyers also gained prominence as the show's "Weekend Update" anchor from 2006 until his departure in 2014.
Major Contributions
Meyers's most significant contributions stem from his tenure at Saturday Night Live. As head writer, he was instrumental in shaping the show's comedic voice during a pivotal era, contributing to political satire sketches that defined presidential election cycles. His work on the "Weekend Update" desk was particularly notable; he delivered sharp, witty commentary on current events and conducted memorable interviews with political figures and fellow comedians. This segment became a cornerstone of the show, with Meyers's dry, intelligent delivery earning critical acclaim. His writing and performance on SNL earned him several Emmy Award nominations and established him as a leading voice in political satire and late-night comedy.
Impact on Field
Seth Meyers has had a substantial impact on the landscape of late-night television and political comedy. His transition from SNL to hosting his own talk show, Late Night with Seth Meyers, demonstrated a successful model for moving from a sketch comedy and news satire background into a traditional talk show format. He brought the desk-piece monologue style, honed on "Weekend Update," to late night, which differentiated his show from more music-and-interview-focused competitors. Furthermore, his creation of recurring segments, particularly "A Closer Look," which offers deep dives into political issues, has influenced other late-night hosts to incorporate longer, more analytical comedic pieces into their programming, elevating the discourse within the genre.
Current Work
Seth Meyers continues to host Late Night with Seth Meyers, which airs weeknights on NBC. The show maintains its signature structure, opening with a monologue followed by the popular "A Closer Look" segment. He also continues to feature celebrity interviews and musical performances. Meyers has expanded his presence beyond television, with clips from the show, especially "A Closer Look," regularly gaining viral traction on digital platforms like YouTube. This digital strategy has broadened his audience and solidified his relevance in the rapidly evolving media landscape. He remains an active voice in comedy and political commentary, frequently participating in charity events and industry awards shows.
Personal Story
Who They Are
Seth Meyers is a comedian, writer, and the host of the late-night talk show "Late Night with Seth Meyers." He first gained national prominence as a cast member and head writer on "Saturday Night Live" (SNL), where he was also the anchor of the show's iconic "Weekend Update" segment for many years. Born in Evanston, Illinois, and a graduate of Northwestern University, Meyers honed his comedy skills in the improv and sketch comedy scene before joining SNL in 2001. His career trajectory from a performer to a trusted writer and finally to a beloved late-night host showcases his versatility and deep understanding of comedic timing and political satire.
Why They Matter
Seth Meyers matters because he has successfully carved out a unique and respected space in the crowded late-night television landscape. His show is distinguished by its sharp, writer-driven comedy, particularly in segments that delve into political and cultural commentary. At a time when trust in media is often questioned, Meyers has built a reputation for delivering well-researched, intelligent humor that holds power accountable without sacrificing entertainment value. He represents a bridge between the classic late-night format and a more modern, digitally-savvy approach, often creating clips that go viral online and engage a younger audience. His influence extends beyond television, shaping political discourse through comedy.
What They’re Known For
Seth Meyers is best known for his work behind the "Weekend Update" desk on SNL, where he delivered satirical news with a dry wit that became a signature style. On his own show, "Late Night," he is famous for the segment "A Closer Look." In these longer, monologue-style pieces, Meyers meticulously breaks down complex political stories and current events, combining thorough research with accessible humor. He is also known for his amiable interviewing style, creating conversational and often hilarious interactions with a wide range of guests. Additionally, his camaraderie with the show's house band, the 8G Band, and his writers is a hallmark of the program's warm, inclusive atmosphere.
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