He does impressions of everyone from David Bowie to Justin Bieber, writes “thank you notes” to everything from sprinkles to pumpkin spiced lattes, creates trending hashtags on Twitter and performs skits with Justin Timberlake.
And now, Jimmy Fallon is the new host of NBC’s “The Tonight Show,” following former emcee Jay Leno. With his high-energy personality and creative sketches, Fallon is the perfect man for the job, especially with The Roots following him to the new show as house band. He’s a kid at heart sure to dominate late night television.
Fallon will be only the seventh host to get the coveted 11:35 p.m. time slot, since “The Tonight Show” premiered in 1954 with Steve Allen. Compared to his predecessors, Fallon has a younger viewership and a fresh perspective on pop culture. He delivers his jokes and opening monologue while breaking out in a song-and-dance style. Anyone who has ever watched “Late Night” during the past five years knows Fallon is appreciative of his fans and guests, and when he’s having a good time on stage, the studio audience and the viewers at home can’t help but have a good time too.
In addition to a new host, “The Tonight Show” will also have a change of scenery; it will head back to its original home in New York City, after relocating to Burbank, Calif. with Johnny Carson in 1972.
The David Letterman and Leno rivalry will continue with Fallon and Letterman going head-to-head at the same time slot, and Fallon will add a fresh dynamic to the competition. In Fallon’s first week, his guests will include first lady Michelle Obama, pop star Lady Gaga and his buddy Timberlake.
Fallon’s most memorable moments include singing with Paul McCartney, doing a segment called “Ew” with Channing Tatum, and parodying the popular TV show “Breaking Bad” with “Joking Bad.” As a former cast member of “Saturday Night Live,” Fallon knows what it takes to make people laugh, whether it’s rapping with Timberlake, singing with Bruce Springsteen or go-kart racing with other celebrity guests. His ability to impersonate a wide variety of stars makes each episode feel like a mini version of “SNL.”
Fallon’s transition from “Late Night” to “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” is one he was meant for. He has the charm, character and the talent to make the “Tonight Show” an even better and more successful version of “Late Night.” It’s show time; let the madness begin.
