Published by Cel Manero from Global One Media Inc.
“Huge thanks to Jimmy Kimmel for giving a shot to someone like me — just a big ol’ redneck misfit,” the country singer joked while guest-hosting the late-night show.
Jelly Roll Tries His Hand at Late-Night, Brings Humor and Humility to Hosting Debut
Jelly Roll has officially added late-night host to his growing list of accomplishments.
On Wednesday, July 16, the 40-year-old country artist — born Jason DeFord — took over hosting duties on Jimmy Kimmel Live! and opened the show with a funny, self-deprecating monologue that set the tone for the night.
“This is a whole new experience for me, so I need y’all to bear with me,” he told the audience. “I promise I’m giving it my all.” Then, with a grin, he added a backup plan: “But if I completely bomb tonight, just pretend my name’s Post Malone.”
Jelly Roll Shines in Late-Night Debut, Brings Laughs, Life Stories, and WWE Smack Talk
Fortunately, Jelly Roll didn’t need to hide behind his fellow Big Ass Stadium Tour performer Post Malone’s name — he proved to be a natural in his late-night hosting debut.
“Don’t adjust your TV — Jimmy Kimmel hasn’t joined a gang,” he joked, kicking off his opening monologue. “I’m your guest host, Jelly Roll. Buckle up, baby!”
Breaking away from typical guest-host formalities, the country singer got personal. “Every guest says it’s great to be here, but let me be real with y’all,” said Jelly, 40, who’s spent time behind bars more than 40 times. “Coming from someone who’s done time, it really is great to be here. Honestly, it’s great to be anywhere. I walked into the DMV yesterday and thought, ‘This is f—ing awesome. What a place!’”
Alongside hosting duties, the “Save Me” artist hyped up his upcoming appearance at WWE SummerSlam, where he’ll enter the ring with Randy Orton to take on Drew McIntyre and Logan Paul. The event airs August 2–3 on Peacock in the U.S. and Netflix globally.
“Hold your applause — don’t clap for Logan Paul,” he told the audience with a grin. “I signed up for this because, let’s be honest, people always confuse me for one of three things: a wrestler, a tattoo artist, or a sober Insane Clown Posse fan.”
Jelly kept the self-deprecating humor rolling: “I know some of you are thinking, ‘Jelly, how are you going to survive in a wrestling match?’ But I’m qualified. I’ve broken more folding chairs than I can count — that counts for something, right?”
The Grammy nominee also reflected on what this moment means for him. “I’ve been through a lot — a rough road, lots of setbacks. But now, I get to live out the ultimate American dream,” he said. “And that’s slapping Logan Paul in the face on live television.”