Summary of "Denzel Washington Had to Improvise After Breaking a Door on Stage - Fallon Flashback"

Release Date: December 27, 2024

In this engaging "Fallon Flashback" episode of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, host Jimmy Fallon sits down with acclaimed actor Denzel Washington for an insightful and entertaining conversation. The episode delves into their shared connections, Denzel's early career, memorable anecdotes from his Broadway performances, and his perspectives on theater and acting. Below is a detailed summary of the episode, highlighting key discussions, notable quotes, and insightful moments.

1. Warm Welcome and Shared Connections

The episode kicks off with Jimmy Fallon warmly welcoming Denzel Washington to the show.

• Jimmy Fallon (00:03): "You're listening to a special Fallon flashback episode of the Tonight Show. And now, here he is, Jimmy Fallon."

Denzel expresses his admiration for Fallon and reveals a familial connection that adds a personal touch to their interaction.

• Denzel Washington (00:26): "I grew up always being a fan of yours because in a weird way, we're connected."

• Jimmy Fallon (00:35): "We're brothers."

• Denzel Washington (00:39): "My uncle Kevin Fallon played basketball for Fordham."

This revelation sets a friendly and relatable tone for the episode, highlighting the genuine rapport between the host and guest.

2. Denzel's Athletic and Academic Journey

The conversation transitions to Denzel's background in sports and education, shedding light on his early aspirations and challenges.

• Denzel Washington (01:03): "I played the freshman ball, but they were very good."

Denzel shares an anecdote about his uncle encouraging him to attend one of Fallon's games, only for Fallon to be occupied with an audition.

• Denzel Washington (01:09): "He told me, 'Denzel, you're going to come to the game?' And you said, 'No, I'm going to audition or do some theater thing.'"

Reflecting on this moment, Denzel acknowledges the accuracy of his uncle's prediction about his successful career.

• Denzel Washington (01:31): "He was right. Here you are. You've won Oscars."

This segment underscores the influence of family and early experiences in shaping Denzel's path to success.

3. Discussion on Basketball and Celebrities

The duo lightens the mood by reminiscing about basketball, touching upon figures like LeBron James and Shaquille O'Neal.

• Denzel Washington (02:45): "I was watching you and LeBron. You're quite a player."

• Jimmy Fallon (03:02): "He can't go to the Gap. I mean, no, it's gotta be a really big Gap. Yeah, right? Big guy Gap."

They humorously discuss the practicalities of basketball players' attire, adding a comedic flair to the conversation.

4. Collaborative Work with Spike Lee

Denzel highlights his professional relationship with renowned director Spike Lee, emphasizing their collaborative projects.

• Denzel Washington (03:38): "We were also both directed by Spike Lee."

• Jimmy Fallon (03:45): "He directed our opening for the show."

They discuss the unique style Spike Lee brings to their projects, including guerrilla-style shooting across New York City.

• Jimmy Fallon (04:00): "We went guerrilla style. Went all around New York City at late at night, like midnight, and got shots of me leaving, walking past the library, Lincoln Center. But then we did a lot of food. We went to Katz's Deli."

This collaboration showcases the creative synergy between the host and guest, resulting in memorable on-screen moments.

5. Anecdote: Improvisation on Broadway

One of the episode's highlights is Denzel recounting a spontaneous incident during a Broadway performance, demonstrating his ability to adapt under pressure.

• Denzel Washington (05:06): "I did a show once on Broadway where I'm supposed to come in. I'm supposed to be real angry. And I come in and I open the door, and I go in, and me. And she was my wife in the play. We have an argument. So I come in and huff. I'm real angry when I grab the door and I pull the doorknob off the door, right?"

An unexpected malfunction occurs when the doorknob breaks, leaving Denzel outside and his co-star unaware.

• Denzel Washington (05:31): "And then the part, the long part, you know, that turns. It fell on the inside, right? Now she's off stage. So she doesn't know I'm not on stage yet. So I'm like, get out here and open this door."

Undeterred, Denzel improvises, turning the mishap into a compelling on-stage moment.

• Denzel Washington (05:50): "Get out here. I am so mad at you around this soap."

His quick thinking not only salvages the scene but also earns him acclaim from the audience.

• Denzel Washington (06:06): "So people were like, oh, that was a brilliant argument, the way you did it with the door."

This story underscores Denzel's professionalism and creativity in live performances.

6. Insights on Theater and Acting

Denzel shares his deep appreciation for theater as an actor's medium, highlighting the immediacy and unpredictability that live performances entail.

• Denzel Washington (05:06): "Theater is an actor's medium in a sense. I mean, obviously, there's a director, but once the curtain goes up, just like your show, once the curtain goes up, you know, it's on."

He discusses the collaborative effort required in theater and the importance of maintaining the flow despite unforeseen challenges.

• Denzel Washington (05:52): "Yeah, come on, let's do this."

His reflections provide valuable insights into the dedication and adaptability required in the performing arts.

7. Upcoming Performances and Tributes

The conversation concludes with Denzel announcing his upcoming Broadway performance of "Raisin in the Sun" at the Barrymore Theater, paying homage to Sidney Poitier, the play's originator.

• Denzel Washington (06:28): "It's 55 years later, and you're doing this play at the Barrymore Theater."

He expresses gratitude towards Sidney Poitier, emphasizing the mentorship and guidance he has received.

• Denzel Washington (06:48): "I've spent some time with Sidney Poitier. He originated the role. And I've just been hanging out his house a little bit, and he's just a great gentleman. He's so gracious."

Denzel invites viewers to attend his performance, underscoring his continued commitment to theater.

• Denzel Washington (06:53): "If you're in New York or around New York, March 8 is when previews start. Go see Denzel Washington raise it in the sun, the Barrymore Theater."

8. Closing Remarks

Jimmy Fallon wraps up the episode by encouraging listeners to subscribe for future episodes and watch the Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon on NBC and Peacock.

• Jimmy Fallon (07:15): "Thanks for listening to the Tonight show starring Jimmy Fallon. Don't forget to subscribe to get the latest episodes weekday mornings. Wherever you get your podcast. Watch the Tonight show starring Jimmy Fallon, weeknights on NBC and streaming on Peacock."

Key Takeaways:

• Shared Heritage: Denzel Washington and Jimmy Fallon share a familial connection through Denzel's uncle, Kevin Fallon, who played basketball for Fordham.

• Professional Collaborations: Both have worked under the direction of Spike Lee, highlighting their collaborative spirit and creative synergy.

• Adaptability in Performance: Denzel's ability to improvise during unforeseen circumstances on stage exemplifies his professionalism and dedication to his craft.

• Commitment to Theater: Denzel emphasizes the importance of theater as a dynamic medium, appreciating its immediacy and the actor's role in maintaining the performance's integrity.

• Upcoming Projects: Denzel is set to perform "Raisin in the Sun" at the Barrymore Theater, honoring Sidney Poitier's legacy and contributing to the rich tradition of Broadway theater.

This episode offers a captivating glimpse into Denzel Washington's experiences, his relationship with Jimmy Fallon, and his unwavering passion for acting and theater.