Jimmy Fallon is a name now synonymous with present-day American culture. There are many reasons why his comedy talk show is so successful, but I believe that the underlying factor is the phenomenon of when someone does what they are made to do.
Starting off as a stand-up comedian, he began paying his dues, getting paid $7.50 per set. He also had very small incidental roles in films and television. From a photograph seller through to one-line characters that ended up getting cut, Jimmy began his acquaintance with what can only be called the Entertainment ‘beast’.
His lifetime dream was to join the cast of the extremely successful Saturday Night Live crew. The audition process for the show is notoriously challenging – having to showcase your brand of comedy in front of critics that hardly ever laugh. Jimmy’s first attempt failed, but he did not give up hope. Two years after his original attempt, he was given another opportunity. This time, his attempts garnered laughter from everyone – including comedy royalty Lorne Michaels and Tina Fey.
After six years with SNL, he forayed into films with marginal success before returning to the NBC television network to host Late Night with Jimmy Fallon in 2009. Dominating the late night spot for five years, the show transitioned to The Tonight Show – drawing huge ratings.
He is known for his fun games and musical skits – placing celebrities in situations that expose their humanity. The impetus is on fun – whether the game or activity works or fails dismally, the viewer will always be caught smiling.
Some of my favourite segments are as follows:
Wheel of Musical Impressions – Ariana Grande kills this one. Also look out for Justin Timberlake, Christina Aguilera and Jamie Foxx’s versions.
Thank You Notes – a weekly roundup with a great big dollop of cheese.
Box of Lies – a ridiculous game that contains probably the most random objects ever to exist…
Lip Sync Battle – Emma Stone is still the reigning queen of lip sync, even with a whole spin-off show dedicated to it now.
Fallon’s in-house band – The Roots – is the trump card of his show, with live musical backing to do everything from building suspense through to jamming with guests. As a musician, I have nothing but the utmost respect for them. They are a tight, multifaceted group that puts the soul (both musical and metaphorical) into the show.
A master of camaraderie, Fallon has been able to crack the sternest of guests. His recent hosting of presidential candidates Trump, Clinton and Fiorina definitely introduced the broader public to their options for the 2016 Elections. In many ways, this is where Jimmy Fallon has hit a crucial medium. He has been able to bridge the gap between entertainment and personal ‘everyday life’ with great success. All of a sudden people know Nicole Kidman gets hysterical, Selma Hayek loves puppies and Harry Potter likes to rap. Presidential candidates are no longer ‘untouchable’ and entertainment icons become the friend down the street.
After being a long-time fan, it is clear to me that Jimmy Fallon is doing what he loves and gets paid for it. Personally, I believe that all of us have a sweet spot – where ‘what you do’ and ‘what you were made to do’ line up. For me, there are certain things that make me feel truly alive. Getting paid to do them is an absolute bonus!
Just like Jimmy Fallon, sometimes we need to start somewhere and work towards our dreams. Once we reach those dreams, however, it doesn’t mean that we have found what we love. Even after SNL, Jimmy hadn’t reached his full potential. If you are yet to find out what you think your purpose is, a second opinion is always a great starting point. Getting to know what God intends for you is a great starting point. If you want to find out more, click on the link below.