Jimmy Fallon's Late-Night Strategy: Keeping Politics at Bay on "The Tonight Show"
As the curtains open on another evening of late-night entertainment, Jimmy Fallon takes his place at the helm of "The Tonight Show," a program that has been a staple of American television for over five decades. With a career spanning from sketch comedy to hosting duties, Fallon's approach to politics on his show is one of calculated avoidance. In an exclusive interview with CNBC's Squawk on the Street, he revealed his plan to keep "The Tonight Show" out of the fray, focusing instead on what has always made it a beloved institution: humor.
"We hit both sides equally," Fallon explained, "and we try to make everybody laugh." This approach is not new; in fact, it's a tradition that dates back to Johnny Carson's era. Fallon's commitment to maintaining this balance is evident in his monologues, which often tackle current events with a lighthearted touch.
But what does it mean for a late-night host to "keep their head down" in today's polarized media landscape? For some, it's a sign of cowardice, a refusal to engage with the pressing issues of the day. Others see it as a pragmatic decision, one that allows Fallon to maintain his show's broad appeal and avoid alienating any particular segment of the audience.
"I think Jimmy is trying to be a unifying force," says comedian and writer, Patton Oswalt. "He wants to make people laugh together, not at each other." Oswalt, who has appeared on "The Tonight Show" numerous times, notes that Fallon's approach is not about avoiding controversy but rather about finding common ground.
However, not everyone agrees with Fallon's strategy. Some critics argue that late-night hosts have a responsibility to use their platforms to raise awareness and spark meaningful conversations about the issues of the day. "Jimmy Fallon's decision to avoid politics is a missed opportunity," says media critic, Eric Deggans. "Late-night TV can be a powerful tool for social commentary, but it requires a willingness to take risks and challenge the status quo."
As the debate surrounding late-night politics continues, one thing is clear: Jimmy Fallon's approach has been successful in maintaining his show's broad appeal. With a ratings boost in recent years, "The Tonight Show" remains one of the most-watched programs on television.
In an era where polarization seems to be the norm, Fallon's commitment to balance and humor may be just what audiences need. As he puts it, "We're not trying to make people laugh at each other; we're trying to make them laugh together." Whether or not one agrees with his strategy, there's no denying that Jimmy Fallon's approach has become an integral part of the late-night landscape.
As the curtains close on another evening of "The Tonight Show," it's clear that Fallon's decision to keep politics at bay will continue to be a topic of discussion. But for now, he remains focused on what has always made his show great: making people laugh together, one joke at a time.
*Based on reporting by Variety.*
