How to get free talk-show tickets in New York

Anna Burnett said she has seen several TV productions made, including the talk shows “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” “Late Night with Seth Meyers” and the granddaddy of live performances, “Saturday Night Live.”

“I’m a musical theater girl. So seeing the magic behind the camera was awesome,” the Nassau County resident said of watching “SNL.”

“I saw how people transition through sets and scenes. Seeing cue cards and costume changes was magical to watch.”

Burnett, 25, said she celebrated her 19th birthday by attending the Seth Meyers show. She said she sat close to the stage and enjoyed how personable he was with audience.

“He asked the crowd questions, and people could ask him questions,” she said. “He liked to make connections to the audience.”

While millions watch TV at home, it’s possible if you’re lucky and/or patient to get free tickets to see a wide range of shows be recorded.

Many might think of Los Angeles as TV production central, but nearly 50 shows are shot in New York City in front of a live audience, according to TVtaping.com.

Tickets are typically non-transferable, and many shows shoot during the day, so the process requires some planning. You’ll likely have to wait, but the payoff is that the shows are fun, including enjoying the bands and the comedians who warm up crowds.

Register at 1iota.com for a chance at free tickets for several tapings including “The Daily Show” or “The Tonight Show.” Standby options may be available on the day of filming.

There are age requirements. “The Tonight Show” tickets are available for those 16 and up, while “The Daily Show” requires audience members be at least 18.

“SNL” has its own ticket lottery open throughout August. 

Mike Applegate, 72, of Bethpage, said he saw “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” in 2023, well before the comedian and CBS announced last month that the network would be cancelling the show.

Applegate, a registered Republican, said he loved seeing the progressive-leaning host live.

“I kind of idolize the guy as a comedian. The sound was good. It was well mixed,” he said. “The band was spot-on. He was funny and he was always on. Even during the break, he was funny.”