Jimmy Fallon, the popular host of “The Tonight Show”, is under fire for reportedly creating a toxic work environment. 16 current and past employees of the show have come forward to accuse the star of having “hissy-fits” and creating a ‘pretty glum atmosphere’.
In an investigative article by Rolling Stone Magazine, more than 50 Tonight Show employees, both current and former, spoke out about Fallon’s behavior. While many praised his job and the entertainment he brought to the show, no one had anything positive to say about the work environment.
The employees, who worked in different roles ranging from production crews to the writers’ room, revealed that Fallon had unexpected mood swings. These swings would result in him having outbursts towards workers and reducing them to feeling belittled and intimidated.
“It was like, if Jimmy is in a bad mood, everyone’s day is f**ked,” one former employee is reported to have said. In addition to this, some said that the show had nine showrunners over nine years due to their inability to “keep it together” under Fallon’s erratic behavior.
Furthermore, seven of the sixteen former and current employees said that their overall well-being was impacted by their experiences with “The Tonight Show”. Some said they were put on anti-anxiety medications due to having anxiety attacks, while others experienced physical reactions such as hair loss and weakening nails due to the stress. One former employee even spoke about suicidal thoughts.
However, a source close to the show claimed that the issue had been dealt with and that a positive atmosphere was maintained.
In response to the allegations, an NBC spokesperson released a statement acknowledging that they take workplace issues seriously and encouraged employees to report any they encounter.
While Fallon himself has denied the claims that his drinking has become “excessive” in the past, two employees allege that they saw him under the influence at work in 2017, while a further two said they had smelt alcohol on his breath during the day in 2019 and 2020.
The Tonight Show is currently on hold due to the writers’ strike, however, was recently renewed by NBC until 2026.
It is unclear how the allegations will affect Fallon’s future with the show. However, it does appear that NBC is taking these allegations seriously and is looking into the reports. As for Fallon himself, only time will tell what his reaction is.
