Why Will Arnett and Tommy Maitland Revived ‘The Gong Show’

Before there was America’s Got Talent, there was The Gong Show, a purely bizarre variety show that ran in the late ’70s with host Chuck Barris. As if there weren’t enough outrageous competition shows on the air, the series is making its way back to television this summer, which begs the question: Why now?

Yahoo TV talked to executive producer Will Arnett and host Tommy Maitland about why they decided to bring the iconic series back to life.

“This is a time where we need to have a good laugh. No matter who you are, where you are, where you live or what you do, we can all agree to come together and laugh about this goofy stuff,” Arnett told Yahoo TV about why he decided to reboot the show.

Along with celebrity judges such as Zach Galifianakis, Andy Samberg, Elizabeth Banks, Joel McHale, Dana Carvey and Will Forte, just to name a few — the show will feature performers, like contortionists, singers, magicians, dancers, comedians, and people who work with really scary bugs.

In addition to wacky talents and celebrity judges, viewers will also be introduced to the new host, Tommy Maitland, a cheeky Brit, comedian, and ladies man (at least, according to his Twitter page).

So, what’s it like working alongside the hilarious Will Arnett?

“It’s like working with one of the most charming orange people you’ve ever met in your life. He’s very tan,” Maitland told Yahoo TV.

We guess he’s pretty hilarious, too!

The Gong Show premieres June 22 at 10 p.m. on ABC.

Watch Will Arnett roast Arrested Development co-star Jason Bateman:

Read more from Yahoo TV:

• Jason Bateman Inks Deal for More ‘Arrested Development’

• Matt Damon and Will Arnett Discuss Bromantic First Meet on ‘Late Late Show’

• Will Arnett’s Co-Star Was Trapped in a Porta-Potty That Was Towed Away