Tony Armstrong is back on our screens – but not quite in the role we’re used to. His new one-off (maybe) ABC special, Always Was Tonight, blends comedy, sketches and some incredibly pointed commentary on our news and media landsape, culture and checkered history. And, as you might expect with a show like this, it’s got people talking.
Think of it as part news satire, part variety show, part “let’s make you think for 30 minutes”. It takes on issues ranging from Indigenous perspectives to Australia Day debates, all with Armstrong’s familiar, friendly TV persona front and centre.
While the show is only a one‑off at this stage, media reviewers have been largely positive. One critique called it “smart, funny and proudly committed to having a point of view”, and that it was “a rare moment of topical satire on Australian TV”, and praised its boldness and willingness to “ruffle a few feathers”.
There’s no question that it blends laughs with incredibly serious moments – including a closing musical sketch that calls out Australia’s low age of criminal responsibility at just 10 years of age – and critics have singled out Armstrong’s easy‑going presentation as a strong anchor for the show’s sharp content.
Armstrong himself has said the goal was to make people laugh while shining a light on serious issues, and judging by the reviews, he pulled it off, at least for some.
Public response has been… well, let’s just say it’s mixed. Some viewers took to social media to say things like “Tony’s affable as always, and the comedy actually made me stop and think”, or “Black, clever, and bold – the sketches really landed”.
But others weren’t so convinced. “I enjoy Tony on the news,” said one reviewer, “but this felt like him pushing his views too hard”.
Here’s the thing: Always Was Tonight isn’t your usual ABC comedy special. It’s satirical, it’s incredibly topical and yes, it’s bold – which is no doubt why it’s stirring up so much conversation. If you’re someone who likes a laugh with a side of commentary, it’s worth a look. If you prefer your TV light, predictable and easygoing, this might feel a bit different.
Either way, Armstrong’s back, the jokes are landing for some, and the chatter online shows one thing for sure – people are paying attention.
Check it out for yourself on ABC iview if you haven’t already.
Images: ABC
