Jimmy Fallon's Conor McGregor backlash reminds viewers of 'hair tussle' Donald Trump interview

Jimmy Fallon, 51, has once again found himself at the centre of a controversy surrounding his interview with UFC fighter Conor McGregor. The backlash against Fallon has been swift, with many of his viewers taking to social media to express their disappointment at platforming McGregor. McGregor, 37, has a history of violence, and his appearance on Fallon's show sparked a heated reaction from those who feel that the late-night host should have been more discerning in his choice of guest.

The controversy surrounding Fallon's interview with McGregor recalls a similar incident in 2016, when he ruffled Donald Trump's hair during an interview. This 'hair tussle' moment has resurfaced, with many comparing the two incidents. In both cases, Fallon's decision to humanise or normalise his guest has been called into question. However, Fallon has since clarified that his intention was not to humanise Trump, but rather to minimise him. In an interview with The New York Times, Fallon explained that he didn't want to normalise Trump's behaviour or imply that he condoned it.

The numbers behind Fallon's decision to interview Trump are telling. The episode in which the 'hair tussle' moment occurred aired in 2016, and it was a ratings success. Fallon's show saw a significant spike in viewership, with many tuning in to see the comedian's interaction with the then-presidential nominee. However, this success came at a cost, as many of Fallon's viewers felt that he had gone too far in his attempts to humanise Trump.

The controversy surrounding Fallon's interview with Trump highlights the complex politics of late-night television. As a platform for comedians and celebrities, late-night TV has the power to shape public opinion and influence cultural discourse. However, this power also comes with a responsibility to be mindful of the consequences of one's actions. Fallon's decision to interview Trump, and later McGregor, raises important questions about the limits of free speech and the role of media in shaping public opinion.

In the context of the US, late-night TV has a long history of pushing boundaries and challenging social norms. From the likes of Johnny Carson to Stephen Colbert, late-night hosts have used their platforms to comment on current events and critique those in power. However, this tradition of free speech also comes with a responsibility to be respectful and considerate of one's audience. Fallon's decision to interview Trump and McGregor has sparked a heated debate about the limits of free speech and the role of media in shaping public opinion.

As the backlash against Fallon continues to grow, it remains to be seen how this controversy will affect his future in the spotlight. Fallon has faced criticism for his decision to interview Trump and McGregor, but he has also been praised for his willingness to take risks and push boundaries. In the end, it will be up to Fallon and his team to decide how to move forward, and whether the controversy surrounding his interviews will ultimately harm or help his career.

As for what's next, I predict that Fallon will continue to face backlash and criticism for his decision to interview McGregor. However, I also believe that he will ultimately emerge from this controversy unscathed, with his ratings and reputation intact. The late-night host has a long history of bouncing back from controversy, and I expect him to do so once again.

The fallout from Fallon's interview with McGregor is a reminder that late-night television, the stakes are high and the consequences of one's actions can be severe. As the controversy surrounding Fallon continues to unfold, it's clear that this is a moment that will be remembered for years to come., what will be the long-term impact of this controversy on Fallon's career, and on the world of late-night television as a whole?