Sometimes You Really Can’t Go Home Again

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We used to be big Jay Leno fans. Tonight Show regulars.

When Jimmy Fallon took over earlier this year, we were concerned. Jimmy was funny, but could he fill the large shoes that came before him – at least in our humble opinions? Rumors had it that Jay had been forced out (really twice) and that his appeal to large audiences was fading but not in my house.

So, here is the twist (did you see this coming?). We are now HUGE Jimmy Fallon fans. He is a different kind of host but new and fresh and well, funny.

This week the unthinkable happened – Jay Leno was a guest on Jimmy Fallon’s Tonight Show. It was hugely awkward. Starting from a less than funny monologue and ending with Jay trying to interview Jimmy’s guest (Lucy Liu). Not a pretty sight. The two were respectful to each other but they both looked nervous.

Comments

Corey Bearak

I did not see the show but the review I read treated it like a triumphant return by Leno and made the hijacked interview of Lucy Liu sound really cute. It also described Fallon and Leno playing off each other. Perhaps the spinners for the Leno and Fallon camps (themselves) made a special effort after the show to make it all appears all's well and good. I usually watch a sports summary show on NY1 cable if I watch TV during that time. Our kids were invited to a birthday party probably 15 or so years ago at the Museum of TV and Broadcasting. I suggested to my son to check out old tonight shows and he really took to the Carson shows.

Submitted by Erik_Scheibe on Mon, 11/10/2014 - 16:47

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Erik Scheibe

Love Jimmy Fallon, though his effusive laughter sometimes appears a bit much, his games are fun and the energy he brings is great. Was an original Letterman fan from the beginning. Still believe that at least 50% of modern TV show comedy is directly influenced by his early impact on the comedy culture. Unfortunately, h's gotten a bit too political and crabby and he is now difficult to watch. Will always love him though. It is a tragedy that NBC has buried the tapes from his early shows. His Third Anniversary Special could be the funniest TV complilation I've seen in my lifetime. Truly an innovator.
Fred Klein

Next time you see me ask about my encounter with Fallon. He is funny 24/7!
Rona Gura

Fred, I think that might be a blog topic.

As for Leno and Fallon, I like them both. I was surprised to read your comments Nanc. I didn't see the show but saw the same reviews that Corey did a funny and triumphant return to the Tonight Show. Now I have to watch it myself. :)

Submitted by NULL (not verified) on Mon, 11/10/2014 - 23:32

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Donna Levine wrote I didn't think it was awkward at all. I didn't think think Jay was funny but I haven't thought he was funny for years. I do like Fallon hate his side kick who milks the jokes way too much but overall the show is way better then Jay has been for years.

Submitted by NULL (not verified) on Tue, 11/11/2014 - 01:29

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Odey Raviv writes that show was probably planned to be edgy with Jay not being a kiss up to Jimmy. Agree that Jay's monologue was weak and an attempt to be younger and more sexually tinged than his usual fluff.
Jimmy is so enthusiastic almost to a fault but he is talented and surprisingly quick. His co host Higgins is a drag. I was lucky enough to be at the Leno
Mark Twain award ceremony in DC a few weeks ago(will be on PBS later in Nov) and was on press line with brother and heard Jimmy speak with sincerity about Jay's generosity and care for comedians. Jay did a good monologue about his parents to close show.

Submitted by NULL (not verified) on Tue, 11/11/2014 - 02:03

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I wish them both well. Both great talents in their own rights. Awkward? Of course. But still lots of love for them both.
Arlene Haims

Submitted by Judy_Heft on Tue, 11/11/2014 - 05:18

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Judy Heft

I was a Jay Leno fan and now I'm a Jimmy Fallon fan. I love him and his energy! He is so talented and I love they way he gets his guests to play silly games. I saw the show with Jay Leno and I thought it was great! I didn't think it was awkward at all. I miss Johnny Carson too!!!

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