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Jimmy Fallon, heading to Atlanta, talks to the AJC
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Jimmy Fallon, shown with Tina Fey at his previous workplace, is coming to Atlanta for an Alliance Theatre benefit next month. Photo by MARY ELLEN MATTHEWS/AP
Jimmy Fallon is taking over the Late Night reins when Conan O’Brien moves to the helm of The Tonight Show, but not before a stop in the ATL.
Fallon will be headlining at A Tony Evening, benefiting the Tony Award-winning Alliance Theatre, on March 21 at the Midtown W.
He agreed to answer a few questions via e-mail.
Q: You’re about to take over the “Late Night” slot - what are your thoughts? Excited? Nervous? Both? Should we expect sketch comedy? Comic impersonations?
A: I am more excited than nervous now. There’s no sense in being nervous anymore - I just got to get out there and try my best. As far as impersonations and sketch comedy - I might throw a few in the mix now and then, but basically, my job is to be host and make you laugh at 12:30 at night.
Q: Talk a little about your experience on SNL. The show became a factor in the political campaign last year, with Tina Fey’s impersonation of Sarah Palin - resulting in Palin appearing on the show. Were you watching during that run?
A: Sure! Tina was knocking it out of the park! That was one of the best things to ever be on Saturday Night Live. My experience on that show was fantastic. It definitely helped prime me for my new job as talk show host. Just doing the news segment on that show and intro’ing guests and reading jokes every week - it’s kind of what I’ll be doing now. Just five nights a week instead of one.
Q: What sort of audience are you looking to attract?
A: Everybody. Anyone who will watch. We’ll take ‘em!
Q: Who will be your first guest?
A: Robert DeNiro
Q: Who are you going after?
A: The Queen of England. (if you have her e-mail - please help.)
Q: Talk about your involvement in the Alliance Theatre Gala. How did you get involved?
A: I’ve always had a great time performing in Atlanta. So, I’m happy to help. I can’t wait to come back for this event.
Q: Do you like grits? Do you know what they are? No Googling.
A: Yes. Grits are a great new indie band. We have them booked for our first week.
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