Jimmy Fallon
As television has changed throughout the years, shifting from prioritizing scheduled television to on-demand and digital-first media, talk shows have had to adapt to fit the new market. Even long-running talk shows are being reformatted to fit viewership that gravitates towards YouTube clips and audio or video podcasts. However, for certain hosts, the late-night talk show, continues to dominate the talk show zeitgeist as an essential marketing tool for Hollywood stars and their projects. A great example of this is The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. The Tonight Show has been broadcast on NBC since 1954, and Fallon, who began hosting in 2014, serves as the show’s sixth host. Filmed in the heart of New York City with a constant stream of A-list guests, ranging from movie stars and musicians to athletes, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon averages 1.2 million viewers per night.
The show’s host, Jimmy Fallon, is a multifaceted comedian, best known for his work in television, especially Saturday Night Live and Late Night with Jimmy Fallon. His success co-hosting SNL’s Weekend Update segment launched him into a successful career hosting late-night television.
In an era where even popular talk shows like The Late Show with Stephen Colbert are getting cancelled, it is worth examining the formula that keeps The Tonight Show on-air. One reason is that the show has made itself a Hollywood staple — providing a reputable platform for celebrities to promote upcoming projects and maintain relevance with their fan base. Many guests are perceived as more relatable after making an appearance.
Jimmy Fallon as a host is also known for his high-energy and positive approach, that helps the show be a feel-good watch for viewers of all ages. Fallon’s unique approach to late night — from live music from The Roots and musical comedy mashups, to game like Thank You Note and Lip Sync Battle — is an asset for him in a declining market. Equally important, is the impact that the show has on its audience. The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon provides something we all desperately need — laughter.