Fallon accused of creating `nightmare' at `Tonight'
More than a dozen current and former staffers of “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” are speaking out about an alleged toxic and chaotic work environment fostered by the Emmywinning host.
NBC’S hit latenight talk show
— hosted by the 48-year-old Fallon since 2014 — has been a toxic place for years, according to two current and 14 former employees, who described their experiences to Rolling Stone in a report published Thursday.
Fallon is known for his fun personality, charming interviews and celebrity friendships. However, several people said Fallon’s alleged mistreatment of staff has resulted in a “pretty glum atmosphere.” They said the tense environment is the result of Fallon’s erratic behavior added to ever-changing leadership and a constant state of fear. “Everybody walked on eggshells, especially showrunners,” a former employee said. “You never knew which Jimmy we were going to get and when he was going to throw a hissy fit.” Several former staffers said working at the show negatively impacted their mental health, including four who said they were in therapy and three who said they experienced suicidal thoughts.
An NBC spokesperson defended the show in a statement to Rolling Stone. “We are incredibly proud of ‘The Tonight Show,’ and
Enjoying the fruit of her labor:
Abigail Pena, 6, of Indio, savors a bite from an apple she plucked at Los Rios Rancho during u-pick apple season in Oak Glen in the San Bernardino Mountains on Saturday.
providing a respectful working environment is a top priority,” the spokesperson said, without mentioning Fallon.