Jimmy Fallon: news and Tonight Show highlights
Jimmy Fallon has become one of the most influential hosts in late-night television, turning his show into a factory of viral clips, celebrity games and musical comedy. This page brings together our coverage of his sketches, guests and memorable moments.
From Saturday Night Live to late night
Jimmy first became famous as a cast member on Saturday Night Live, where his impressions and his co-anchoring of Weekend Update made him a fan favourite, even if he was famous for breaking character and laughing during sketches. He went on to host Late Night with Jimmy Fallon before taking over The Tonight Show, one of the most storied franchises in American television.
The Fallon formula
Jimmy's approach to late night is built on fun rather than confrontation. His show is known for:
- Games with celebrities: from Lip Sync Battle, which grew into its own television series, to Box of Lies, Pictionary and Egg Russian Roulette.
- Musical comedy: slow jams of the news, classroom instruments sessions with pop stars and his Wheel of Musical Impressions.
- The Roots: the legendary hip-hop band serves as house band and joins in many of the bits.
- Characters and sketches: recurring bits that often go viral the next morning.
Memorable guests
Some of the most-shared moments come from stars who throw themselves into the silliness. Jennifer Lawrence, for example, joined Jimmy for a mock late-night infomercial in which the two played tiny-mouthed alter egos named Des and Dash, selling an imaginary dance video series called Come Dance With Us. Dressed in shiny vinyl outfits and rainbow sleeves, they demonstrated dance moves with names like Check the Door and Bury the Nut, and the clip spread rapidly online.
Why it works
Jimmy's enthusiasm makes guests comfortable enough to look ridiculous, and that is exactly what audiences want to see. The format suits the internet era perfectly: short, funny clips that are easy to share. His friendly style has made The Tonight Show a must-stop for musicians and actors promoting new projects.
Keep laughing
New sketches, celebrity games, musical performances and viral clips: follow the latest from Jimmy Fallon here and tell us which Tonight Show moment made you laugh hardest.