CNN TO AIR AMERICA LAUGHS WITH MATT FRIEND – A CNN POLITICAL COMEDY SPECIAL

Subscribe to CNN Press Room Email Updates FRIDAY APRIL 24 AT 11PM ET ON CNN AND STREAMING IN THE CNN APP Washington, D.C. (April 21, 2026) — CNN will air an exclusive political satire and late-night comedy special hosted by famed comedian Matt Friend on Friday, April 24 at 11pm ET. The special, produced by CNN, will be filmed from the nation’s capital and will celebrate the longstanding tradition of combining comedy and politics to bring people together from across the political spectrum during the weekend of the annual White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner, an event focused on honoring journalism and the First Amendment and awarding scholarships. The hour will feature a monologue from Friend as well as appearances from special guests and surprise elements. “Comedy and politics have always had a unique connection, and I’m excited to bring that bipartisan energy to Washington with CNN for this special. We are in an increasingly divided country and world. For my show with CNN, I aim to poke fun at everyone and allow room for all to laugh in a Johnny Carson spirit. “For decades, from Sid Caesar and Carson to Norm Macdonald and Bill Maher, comedians have helped us reflect on p