As David Letterman announced his retirement on his show the other night, among the insights, stories, and explanations, he uttered this simple truism:
“You can’t help but think about the passage of time. It’s the way of life.”
After more than 30 years hosting Late Night on two networks, Letterman looked in the mirror and announced he’s calling it quits.
No doubt that many factors went into this decision, and he explained a few on the show. But you have to also think that among other things, the rise of new talent to late night television – especially Jimmy Kimmel and Jimmy Fallon – had to play a role in making this tough call. And now it’s been announced that none other than Stephen Colbert will replace Dave on Late Night – another indication that the new guard is taking over.
As we wrote back when Leno walked off stage, Jimmy Fallon’s use of modern media, social tools, and his overall outlook simply made Jay’s approach seem tired and passé.
And now as Fallon – in particular – enters the mainstream with class, style, and a different approach to the medium, Letterman had to factor that in, too.
For years, Letterman has influenced a generation (or two) of morning shows. From the “Top 10 List” to “Stupid Pet Tricks” to turning the spotlight on real life characters in the neighborhood to featuring his mom, Dave taught aspiring radio DJs how to prep, deliver, and conceive of quirky, topical comedy on a daily basis.
But today’s personality shows would be wise to check what Jimmy Fallon is doing every night on NBC because he’s schooling radio’s DJs in the more modern ways of entertainment and acknowledgment. And he’s doing it in a way that will soon make us forget Jay and Dave because his style is truly different. His ratings are already considerably better than NBC originally projected.
That’s because Fallon is delivering great content, and comes at his craft and The Tonight Show with a different approach. When you think about it strategically, here are some of the ways Fallon is recreating this classic late night show in a very today style:
- He’s innovative and isn’t afraid to take risks.
- He’s real – there’s nothing plastic about him.
- It’s not about him – it’s about his guests and how he showcases them.
- It’s about treatment – anyone can book great guests or riff on topical bits but it’s his approach that sets him and his show apart.
- It’s not about contrived bits – this is reality TV – real, fun, sometimes amazing, and often worth sharing.
- He’s not afraid to reveal himself.
Consider this segment with Billy Joel where Fallon finds a way to take a musical guest, make him comfortable, and treat him differently on TV than ever before. It doesn’t mean that a morning show in Des Moines or Detroit can simply pull out a guitar when a musical icon walks in the studio. But it does speak to the concept of finding ways to make guests comfortable, while looking for treatments that are unique and different. By showcasing his guests, Fallon is indirectly communicating just how talented he is.
>EMAIL RECIPIENTS: CLICK HERE TO WATCH BILLY JOEL & JIMMY FALLON VIDEO<
Fallon isn’t afraid to try new things, and while pundits often acknowledge his appeal to young consumers, his embrace of the old school handwritten thank-you note speaks volumes about the fact he has no fear, and is comfortable in his own skin. While he embraces the social and digital tools as skillfully as anyone on TV, his personal connection and warmth come through with this simple and funny gesture.
And just as a handwritten thank-you note makes anyone stand out, whether it’s an interview situation, job hunting, or showing appreciation to a friend or client, Fallon sets himself apart from the millions who now rely on the impersonal thank-you note – that is email and texts.
So as Letterman takes his good-bye lap over the coming months, radio shows would do well to put aside some of those shopworn techniques that once made him so current, hot, topical, and different in the ‘80s. Today, Fallon is that guy. And along with Kimmel and Colbert, there’s never been a stronger lineup of late night hosts that will set new examples.
The torch has been passed. We should all be taking notes.
Jacobs Media has consistently walked the walk in the digital space, providing insights and guidance through its well-read national Techsurveys.
In 2008, jacapps was launched - a mobile apps company that has designed and built more than 1,300 apps for both the Apple and Android platforms. In 2013, the DASH Conference was created - a mashup of radio and automotive, designed to foster better understanding of the "connected car" and its impact.
Along with providing the creative and intellectual direction for the company, Fred consults many of Jacobs Media's commercial and public radio clients, in addition to media brands looking to thrive in the rapidly changing tech environment.
Fred was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2018.
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I’ve thought Ellen DeGeneres has been doing the best AC/Pop morning show for quite some time. A star that’s not afraid to make herself the joke, involves the audience and staff, engaging games/contests, lets the guest gets their plug in, but still involved in ‘the show’. And makes everyone dance.
Good one, Jerry. We talked about Ellen after the Oscars, and you’re right that she’s got a great touch, makes people feel good, and keeps you coming back for more. Thanks for adding her to our list of TV hosts who get it.