The Mirror

WHCD Comedian Joel McHale May Replace CBS’s Craig Ferguson

Betsy Rothstein Gossip blogger
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The comedian for this weekend’s White House Correspondents’ Dinner may soon be on to bigger and brighter things. Joel McHale is being floated as a possible replacement for CBS late night host Craig Ferguson, who performed before the dinner in 2008.

“Word has gotten out amongst the American-born comedians that you’re a bit of a tough crowd,” Ferguson said during his Washington act. “…A lot of people told me..they’re a tough room that’s full of angry men and disappointed women.”

In his act, Ferguson referred to The Hill newspaper as “The Mount.”

McHale, 42, was born in Rome and is best known for hosting E!’s The Soup and his star role on NBC’s Community, although he’s not all that well known when you mention his name to ordinary, intelligent Washingtonians.

But according to The Hollywood Reporter, the new heir for the 12:30 a.m. slot is not so apparent and there is no distinct frontrunner in mind.

Depending on how he does this weekend, McHale’s performance could slide him into a better position among the hopefuls, which include Neil Patrick Harris, Jason Jones, Michael Ian Black, Chelsea Handler (who has also attended the WHCD in years past), Aisha Tyler and Amy Schumer.