New York City’s late-night scene got a fresh jolt of energy this week as Greg Gutfeld, the sharp-witted host of Fox News’ Gutfeld!, welcomed a surprising new friend to his show. The episode, aired on April 18, 2025, featured a moment that has since gone viral: a heartfelt embrace between Gutfeld and his guest, comedian and actor Marcus “Marc” Thompson, on the vibrant set of Gutfeld!. Against the backdrop of a glittering city skyline and a glowing full moon, the two shared a hug that spoke volumes about their instant chemistry—a connection that has fans buzzing about the future of the show.
A New Face on Gutfeld!
Greg Gutfeld has been a staple of late-night television since Gutfeld! premiered in 2021, offering a satirical take on news, politics, and culture with his signature blend of humor and irreverence. Known for his quick wit and libertarian-leaning commentary, Gutfeld has built a loyal audience, often outperforming traditional late-night giants like Jimmy Kimmel and Stephen Colbert in ratings. But on this particular episode, it wasn’t Gutfeld’s biting monologues or the show’s usual panel of guests that stole the spotlight—it was Marcus Thompson, a rising star in comedy who has recently made waves with his stand-up specials and viral social media skits.
Thompson, dressed in a striking black and gold patterned jacket over a white shirt and black pants, exuded charisma as he stepped onto the Gutfeld! set. Holding a set of notes, he appeared ready to dive into the show’s chaotic energy. Gutfeld, casually clad in a green shirt and jeans, greeted him with an enthusiasm that caught even the live audience off guard. The two shared a warm embrace, with Gutfeld playfully lifting Thompson off the ground, prompting laughter and cheers from the crowd. The moment, captured in a now-iconic photo, has sparked speculation about Thompson’s role in the Gutfeld! universe.
From Guest to Sidekick: The Making of a Dynamic Duo
Thompson’s appearance on Gutfeld! wasn’t his first brush with fame. The 35-year-old comedian has been gaining traction since his 2023 Netflix special Laugh Through the Chaos, which tackled everything from cancel culture to generational divides with a sharp, unapologetic edge. His style—bold, observational, and often politically neutral—made him a natural fit for Gutfeld’s show, which thrives on pushing boundaries and challenging mainstream narratives.
During the episode, Thompson joined Gutfeld for the opening segment, a satirical rundown of the week’s news. The two quickly found their rhythm, trading barbs about a recent political scandal involving a senator’s viral gaffe. “This guy makes Biden look like he’s got his act together,” Gutfeld quipped, to which Thompson replied, “Yeah, and that’s saying something—Biden’s act is basically a nap!” The audience roared, and Gutfeld’s grin said it all: he’d found a kindred spirit.
The chemistry between the two was undeniable. Thompson’s quick wit complemented Gutfeld’s dry humor, and their playful dynamic brought a fresh energy to the show. At one point, Gutfeld jokingly suggested that Thompson should become a regular, saying, “I think we need to make this official—Marc, you’re my new sidekick!” The audience erupted in applause, and Thompson, ever the showman, bowed dramatically, replying, “Only if I get to keep the jacket!”
A Viral Moment and Fan Reactions
The embrace between Gutfeld and Thompson became the episode’s defining moment. As the two hugged on the Gutfeld! set—complete with its signature blue carpet, cozy couch, and cityscape backdrop—viewers at home took to social media to share their excitement. On X, the hashtag #GutfeldAndMarc trended within hours, with fans posting clips of the moment alongside captions like, “This duo is pure gold!” and “Marc Thompson needs to be on Gutfeld! every night!” One user wrote, “I haven’t laughed this hard at a late-night show in years. Greg and Marc are a match made in comedy heaven.”
The viral photo of their hug, set against the dramatic backdrop of a full moon and city lights, has been meme-ified endlessly, with captions ranging from “When you find your work bestie” to “Greg and Marc: The bromance we didn’t know we needed.” The moment has even sparked fan art, with one illustrator depicting the two as superheroes fighting off “woke villains” with their microphones.
What This Means for Gutfeld!
Thompson’s appearance comes at a pivotal time for Gutfeld!. The show has solidified its place as a late-night powerhouse, often drawing over 2 million viewers per episode—a feat unmatched by many of its competitors. But Gutfeld has always been open about his desire to keep the show fresh, frequently rotating guests and experimenting with new segments. Bringing Thompson on as a potential regular could be a game-changer, adding a new layer of dynamism to the show’s format.
Insiders report that Gutfeld and his producers were so impressed with Thompson’s performance that they’ve already extended an offer for him to return for multiple episodes. “Greg loves Marc’s energy,” a source close to the show revealed. “He brings a perspective that resonates with the audience, and their chemistry is off the charts. It’s the kind of thing you can’t manufacture.”
For Thompson, the opportunity to join Gutfeld! could catapult his career to new heights. While he’s already a rising star in comedy, a regular spot on a show as popular as Gutfeld! would give him a platform to reach millions of viewers weekly. It’s a chance to showcase his talents on a larger stage while also aligning himself with a host known for championing free speech and humor without limits.
A Bromance for the Ages?
As the episode wrapped, Gutfeld and Thompson shared another lighthearted moment, with Gutfeld handing Thompson a mock “sidekick contract” written on a napkin. “Sign here, buddy,” Gutfeld said, grinning. Thompson played along, pretending to read the fine print before tossing the napkin into the air, much to the delight of the audience.
The episode ended on a high note, but it left fans with plenty of questions. Will Marcus Thompson become a permanent fixture on Gutfeld!? Could this new friendship evolve into a full-fledged partnership, reshaping the show’s dynamic for years to come? For now, one thing is clear: Greg Gutfeld’s new friend has made an indelible mark on Gutfeld!, and viewers can’t wait to see what’s next for this unexpected duo.
