In this episode of The Diary Of A CEO, Jimmy Fallon shares his journey from aspiring comedian to Saturday Night Live cast member. He describes the financial hardships and setbacks he faced while pursuing his singular dream of joining SNL, including taking classes at the Groundlings to perfect his impressions and navigating multiple auditions before finally landing a spot on the show at age 23.
The conversation also explores Fallon's relationship with his mother Gloria, whose support shaped his early career, and his evolution beyond SNL to hosting The Tonight Show. Fallon discusses his ventures into production, brand partnerships, and theme park attractions, while reflecting on fame's challenges and his outlook on the entertainment industry's future as he approaches age 50.
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From a young age, Jimmy Fallon had one singular dream: to become a cast member on "Saturday Night Live." Growing up in a family of avid SNL watchers, Fallon studied the show meticulously, watching and rewatching recorded episodes to perfect his understanding of comedy.
After moving to LA, Fallon took classes at the Groundlings to improve his impressions while facing significant financial hardship. Despite the challenges, he maintained his resolve, even securing a Warner Brothers Television deal with a special clause allowing him to leave for an SNL audition.
Though Fallon's first SNL audition left him feeling disappointed, his second attempt proved more successful. His Adam Sandler impression notably made Lorne Michaels laugh—a rare occurrence during auditions. At age 23, Fallon finally received the call he'd been waiting for: an offer to join the SNL cast.
Gloria Fallon played a crucial role in Jimmy's success, offering unwavering support and encouragement throughout his career. Jimmy speaks of how his mother's consistent support and hearty laugh built his confidence. Her passing marked what Jimmy describes as the most challenging period of his life.
Fallon's career expanded significantly beyond SNL, transitioning from "Late Night" to "The Tonight Show." He has ventured into various creative and entrepreneurial projects, including founding a production company, creating the "Tonight Dough" ice cream flavor with Ben & Jerry's, and designing a Universal Studios roller coaster.
As he approaches 50, Fallon shares insights about the unexpected challenges of fame and his increased focus on health and longevity. He maintains an optimistic view of the entertainment industry's evolution, believing that regardless of platform changes, people's desire for storytelling and laughter remains constant.
1-Page Summary
Jimmy Fallon's journey to join the "Saturday Night Live" (SNL) cast demonstrates his single-minded determination and belief in himself, despite numerous setbacks.
From a young age, Fallon had one ultimate dream—to become a cast member on "Saturday Night Live," a show he found electric, edgy, and the pinnacle of comedy. Every year, on his birthdays or whenever he had the chance to make a wish, his wish was to be on SNL. His family, who were avid SNL watchers, were among the first to have a VCR, which allowed them to record the show so Jimmy could rewatch and study the sketches meticulously.
During his high school years, Fallon's obsession with SNL grew to the point where he could not enjoy watching it with anyone who didn't share his level of passion for the show. He even brought taped sketches to parties to share with friends. Throughout college, his commitment to the show didn't waiver as he insisted on watching it live rather than recording it. On a tour of the NBC studio with his father, Fallon was enthralled just being in the studio building. He was certain that his path led to SNL; he couldn't envision any other career outcome.
Fallon's move to LA involved taking classes at the Groundlings to sharpen his impressions and impersonations, which he knew SNL favored. His focus in class on joining SNL was notably specific. Despite the hardship he faced – little money, tough living conditions, and relentless rejection – Fallon maintained his resolve.
He fondly refers to the NBC building as his home, indicating his long-standing and deep connection with the network, where he has worked since 1998. These challenges didn’t deter him; they instead made him mentally stronger. There were times of profound self-doubt and financial strain to the point that Fallon considered therapy and had to grapple with the possibility of failure.
However, he acquired a holding deal with Warner Brothers Television, which eased some financial ...
Fallon's Quest to Join SNL
Jimmy Fallon's journey to becoming a cast member on Saturday Night Live (SNL) was marked by challenges, disappointments, and exciting turning points.
Fallon's initial SNL audition involved performing various impressions, which made him nervous, especially because he was briefed that Lorne Michaels typically does not laugh during auditions. During the audition, Fallon did his first impression and felt that he blew it, which left him feeling very depressed. Despite the disappointing experience, Fallon was resolute and continued to pursue his dream of joining SNL. He felt it was a missed opportunity but remained focused on getting another chance to show what he could do.
Fallon recalls the moment when he did an impression of Adam Sandler that was well-received. Lorne Michaels laughed at Fallon's performance, which was significant as Michaels is known for his stoicism during auditions. Producer Marci Klein complimented Fallon on his performance, which was an encouraging sign.
Even though Fallon left his first audition feeling positive, he had to wait a couple of weeks without hearing back, initially being told that the show was looking in a different direction, which eventually led to the casting of Tracy Morgan. Nonetheless, Fallon's Sandler impression made a strong impression, which demonstrated his potential for the show.
Despite not mentioning a second audition explicitly, it's clear Fallon had significant interactions with the SNL team ...
Challenges and Pivotal Moments in Jimmy's SNL Journey
Jimmy Fallon's career in comedy and entertainment was nurtured from an early age by his parents, most notably his mother, Gloria. Their support and influence remain a foundational element in his journey as a comedian and television host.
Jimmy Fallon's father, who worked at IBM, struck a deal with his son that involved going to college with some financial backing. However, Fallon chose to drop out of college after three and a half years to pursue opportunities in Los Angeles, such as acting classes and auditions for "Saturday Night Live." His parents were cautious but ultimately supportive of his decision to follow his dreams.
Gloria Fallon's unwavering support was a critical factor in Jimmy finding the courage and confidence to chase after his comedic aspirations. Jimmy speaks fondly of his mother, noting how she consistently rooted for him, providing comfort and reinforcement. He recalls how she maintained a light-hearted spirit, even joking about finding money in his laundry, and relished in sharing his exciting moments, such as when he informed her over a payphone that Jerry Seinfeld was in attendance at his performance. Her presence in the kitchen during parties and as a perpetual audience for his attempts at humor illustrates the inextricable bond they shared.
Jimmy acknowledges how Gloria's hearty laugh and fondness for his work buoyed his spirits, likening her feedback to a Beatles fan commenting on a musician's new album. ...
Jimmy's Relationship With His Parents, Especially His Mother
Jimmy Fallon has built a diverse career that goes far beyond his time at "Saturday Night Live" (SNL). His journey from sketch comedy to hosting widely popular talk shows, entrepreneurial ventures, and engaging in creative projects showcases his aim to spread joy and entertainment.
Fallon, who was once voted "most likely to replace David Letterman," fulfilled this prediction by moving from SNL to "Late Night," Letterman’s show, and then to "The Tonight Show." His path after SNL included branching out into film, meeting his wife, and taking over "Late Night" from Conan O'Brien, followed by "The Tonight Show" from Jay Leno. Fallon reflects on the slew of life-changing opportunities he's encountered, attributing his success to a desire to entertain and connect with people. He emphasizes the importance of connection and humor in his life, expressing his affection for his children daily and finding joy in making others happy.
Fallon not only succeeded in transitioning from "Late Night" to "The Tonight Show," but has also undertaken a variety of creative and entrepreneurial endeavors.
He recalls working with Mick Jagger on a successful sketch idea, highlighting his enthusiasm for collaboration and creativity. Fallon founded a production company, through which he is involved in producing several shows, series, and films. His experience with comedy albums, particularly the Christmas-themed "Holiday ...
Jimmy's Success and Diverse Career Beyond SNL
In an insightful discussion about his own experiences, Jimmy Fallon delves into the complexities of fame, the importance of physical health and longevity, and the ever-evolving nature of the entertainment industry.
Jimmy Fallon candidly shares that he was unprepared for the criticism and rejection that comes with fame. Despite expecting fame to be overwhelmingly positive, he encountered unexpected negativity, mean-spiritedness, and bad press. However, reflecting on his experience, Fallon found fame to be "cooler than cool" and emphasizes the necessity of "putting in work" and consistently showing up for his audience.
He likens his work on television to an everyday routine, such as brushing teeth—a task that, over time, you do without a second thought. His mantra remains that one cannot please everyone, a lesson he underscores with personal anecdotes about his father's tough, yet supportive, love, and advice from the Beastie Boys. Fallon pushes for authenticity, acknowledging the impossibility of universal adoration and focusing instead on what he loves doing. Despite a keen awareness of being misunderstood and the challenges of fame, Fallon remains positive through it all.
As Jimmy Fallon enters a new stage in his life, turning 50, he shifts focus towards health and longevity. He mentions undertaking healthier eating habits, exercising when possible, and taking daily walks. He also notes that he's drinking less and seeking regular health checkups—an intentional choice to ensure he can enjoy life for a long time.
Fallon acknowledges that his approach to parenting is contrasted sharply with that of his father. He's embracing a communicative and openly affectionate relationship with his children— an influence from his mother's approach. Reflecting on his parents' lifestyle, which largely ignored health consciousness, Fallon is inspired to be financially stable and physically present for his children, expressing his love for them and emphasizing the importance of enjoying life to the fullest.
Jimmy on Fame, Longevity, and Entertainment
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