James Corden to Anchor Fox’s Weekly ‘After Hours’ World Cup Show
Former “Late Late Show” host James Corden announced on May 11, 2026, that he will front a new nightly World Cup after‑hours program on Fox beginning on June 13, the first day of the 2026 FIFA tournament. The hour‑long show, titled “After Hours With James Corden,” will feature former England captain Rio Ferdinand and comedian Jo Koy as regular co‑hosts, plus rotating celebrity guests and live fan interaction segments.
The series marks Fox’s first foray into a dedicated post‑match talk‑show format for a major sporting event, aiming to capture the growing appetite for unscripted, personality‑driven analysis seen on streaming platforms. The network hopes the program will complement its live match coverage and keep viewers engaged beyond the 90‑minute games.
Deadline reports that Fox unveiled the lineup during its May 11 upfront, with Corden stating, “I’m thrilled to bring my love of soccer and comedy to fans worldwide.” Co‑host Rio Ferdinand added, “We’ll break down the tactics, but also have a laugh.” Fox senior VP of sports, Maria Alvarez, confirmed that the show will air immediately after each match, leveraging Corden’s global appeal to attract a younger demographic.
Media analysts, such as Jonathan Reed of Sports Media Insights, predict the show could boost Fox’s ad revenue by up to 15% during the tournament, citing Corden’s proven draw in late‑night talk formats. However, critics warn that the blend of comedy and sports analysis might alienate hardcore fans seeking serious breakdowns.
The program will debut ahead of the tournament’s opening match on June 13, with a full schedule released later this week. Fox will also stream the show on its digital platform, Fox Sports+, offering on‑demand clips. Viewership numbers and advertiser response will be monitored throughout the World Cup to assess the viability of extending the “After Hours” format to future sporting events.