Jimmy Fallon took over The Tonight Show in 2014 after Jay Leno stepped down for the second time, and brought the program back to New York for the first time in 42 years. Fallon hosts the show alongside announcer Steve Higgins, with house band the Roots, and the show airs weeknights at 11:35/10:35c on NBC.
Trailer, via ABC Entertainment.
The Opening
The show begins with Fallon’s topical monologue. That’s followed by sketches and games, then guest interviews and a musical performance or stand-up comedy.
The Studio
The show records from Studio 6B in Rockefeller Center, the same studio where Tonight Starring Jack Paar and The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson were produced from 1957 until 1972.
The Numbers
The show premiered on February 17, 2014, and last aired on September 17, 2026. It ran 14 seasons with 2,417 episodes. Fallon is the sixth host of NBC’s long-running Tonight Show franchise. That makes Fallon the latest in a long line of hosts that stretches back to the franchise’s beginnings.
The Reception
The show attracted high ratings from its premiere. Many moments have generated viral videos. The show has been nominated for nine Primetime Emmy Awards, winning two.
The Renewals
On May 17, 2021, NBC renewed the show for five more years through 2026. On June 13, 2024, NBC extended Fallon’s contract to host until 2028.
The Verdict
The show works as steady late-night fare. The show is reliable but rarely memorable outside its biggest viral moments.
The Final Word
The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon is a solid late-night choice. Fallon’s energy and the Roots’ live band make it worth tuning in.
Key Facts
- Premiere: February 17, 2014
- Last aired: September 17, 2026
- Seasons: 14
- Episodes: 2,417
- Network: NBC
- Nominated for Emmy Awards: 9
- Emmys won: 2
- Host: Jimmy Fallon
- Announcer: Steve Higgins
- House band: The Roots
- Studio: Studio 6B, Rockefeller Center
- Renewal: May 17, 2021
- Contract extension: June 13, 2024
Get the Notebook.
The day's best stories and every fresh verdict, in plain English, in your inbox by seven. One email a day, no more.
