Sam Pang’s highly anticipated late-night talk show, Sam Pang Tonight, debuted on Channel Ten on Monday, but its reception was anything but unanimous. While some viewers enjoyed the new addition to Australia’s late-night lineup, others were quick to criticize the show, labeling it "awkward" and "unwatchable."
The show featured classic late-night elements, including a celebrity guest announcer—comedian Dave Thornton—scripted segments, and quirky banter. However, the audience reaction on social media was mixed, with many taking issue with the execution.
"'Oh s***... I said I'd give it five minutes... I lasted three,'" one viewer shared on X (formerly Twitter). Another user added, "'Canned laughter makes it unwatchable.'"
Some fans argued that the traditional late-night format might be outdated in today’s entertainment landscape. "'In the age of long-form podcasts, 10-minute segments feel clumsy and awkward,'" one person commented. "'Sam is funny but the 'tonight show' paradigm is over.'"
Despite the criticism, others defended Pang, noting that he appeared nervous in his hosting debut. "'Every single one of us who has followed Sam Pang his whole career will agree that this is the most nervous or uneasy we've ever seen him,'" a supporter wrote.
Some viewers encouraged audiences to give the show more time to settle into its groove. "'Not a great start, a bit clunky and flat at times, but he's a genuinely funny guy, and I will give him a few more weeks' grace. Good luck, Sam,'" one fan commented.
While Sam Pang Tonight has divided opinions, Channel Ten is betting on its success, hoping it will bring an Australian spin to the late-night format and attract top-tier celebrity guests.
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