The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon – Episode Summary
Episode Title: Elon Waves White House Goodbye with a Black Eye | Dakota Johnson, Jonathan Groff
Release Date: June 3, 2025
1. Opening Monologue and News Highlights
The episode kicks off with Jimmy Fallon welcoming the audience from Studio 6P at Rockefeller Center, New York City. He dives into a humorous take on recent headlines, setting a lively tone for the evening.
Elon Musk's Oval Office Departure:
Jimmy opens with a comedic report on Elon Musk leaving the federal government. He humorously comments on Musk’s appearance during his farewell event at the Oval Office, noting Musk's black eye which sparked various speculations.
Jimmy Fallon [01:08]: "Elon Musk was wearing sunglasses, but that was just to cover his black eye."
Jimmy humorously conjectures potential excuses Elon might use for his injury, poking fun at Musk's reputation for quirky explanations.
Jimmy Fallon [03:04]: "He could also say, I told TRUMP that the McRib is never coming back. I mean, this is fighting stuff."
Stranger Things Season Finale Announcement:
Transitioning to entertainment news, Jimmy announces the much-anticipated final season of Netflix's Stranger Things, highlighting its return after a three-year hiatus.
Jimmy Fallon [04:12]: "The fifth and final season of Stranger Things is almost here. And it's time for one last adventure with the entire gang."
Mattel's Whack a Mole Movie and Jon Off's Appearance:
Jimmy shifts to lighter news about Mattel developing a movie based on the arcade classic Whack a Mole. He introduces Jon Off, a self-proclaimed Whack a Mole expert, setting the stage for a comedic segment.
2. Whack a Mole Segment with Jon Off
Introduction to Jon Off:
Jon Off humorously details his life dedicated to mastering Whack a Mole, sharing anecdotes from his early days and his extensive practice across various venues.
Jon Off [04:54]: "I've whacked everywhere. I've whacked in arcades, I've whacked in carnivals. I even have a set up now so I can whack all night at home."
Comedic Exchange and Unexpected Turn:
The segment takes an unexpected and humorous turn when Jon Off abruptly admits to a personal and awkward confession, leading Jimmy to swiftly end the segment to maintain decorum.
Jon Off [06:21]: "I love to masturbate."
Jimmy Fallon [06:26]: "Okay, John, off everyone. You can call me Jack. I will not call you Jack."
3. Business News Bites
Jimmy transitions into a rapid-fire segment covering various business news stories with his signature humor:
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Nutter Butters vs. Aldi:
The maker of popular cookies sues Aldi over packaging similarities, to which Aldi apologizes by sending prongles as a peace offering. -
Tinder's Height Filter:
Addressing online dating dynamics, Jimmy jokes about Tinder introducing a height filter to curb misrepresented profiles. -
Tesla and Volvo Recalls:
Highlighting recalls from Tesla for Cybertrucks and Volvo for rear-view camera issues, Jimmy incorporates playful interactions with Tariq Trotter, adding comedic flair to the reports.
4. Tariq Trotter’s Comedic Bits
Vacuum and Ice Cream Recalls:
Tariq Trotter engages in a humorous exchange about product recalls, emphasizing exaggerated scenarios that amplify the silliness of the news.
Tariq Trotter [08:29]: "I still have my trusty Volkswagen."
Prank Call Skit with Dakota Johnson and Jonathan Groff:
In a playful twist, Tariq and Jimmy attempt prank calls to local businesses, leading to amusing misunderstandings and light-hearted interactions.
5. Guest Interviews
A. Dakota Johnson – Star of "Materialists"
Welcome and Personal Anecdotes:
Dakota Johnson joins the show to promote her new film Materialists, co-starring Pedro Pascal and Chris Evans. Jimmy reminisces about their previous encounter at the SNL 50th anniversary.
Jimmy Fallon [11:03]: "Do you remember last time I saw you? It was in this building for the SNL50 Saturday Night Live 50th anniversary."
Materialists Movie Discussion:
Dakota delves into her role as a matchmaker in Materialists, exploring themes of love and personal value. She shares insights into working alongside her talented co-stars and the movie's romantic dynamics.
Dakota Johnson [23:14]: "Materialist is about a matchmaker in New York City who is very, very good at her job. And she is also sort of trying to figure out for herself what love means and what is really actually valuable in life."
Prank Call Storytelling:
Dakota recounts her involvement in prank calls for Elle magazine, including a humorous clip where she receives an absurd movie offer to play a baby for a staggering sum.
Dakota Johnson [15:42]: "They want me to play a baby, but they're offering me, like, $500 million."
Sweater Story with Don Johnson:
A charming segment unfolds as Dakota narrates a serendipitous encounter with Don Johnson, leading to her receiving his sweater—a story that blends humor with heartfelt moments.
Jimmy Fallon [21:03]: "And the next day, I get a delivery and it's his sweater."
B. Jonathan Groff – Tony Award-Winning Performer
Celebrating Achievements:
Jonathan Groff returns to the show to discuss his recent Tony Award win and honorary doctorate from Franklin and Marshall College. He shares gratitude towards his middle school drama teacher, Sue Fisher.
Jonathan Groff [25:36]: "Sue Fisher... She is my middle school drama teacher and an incredible teacher."
Broadway Musical "Just in Time":
Groff elaborates on his role in the Broadway hit Just in Time, directed by Alex Timbers. He describes the immersive experience of performing in a nightclub-like setting and the profound connection with the audience.
Jonathan Groff [30:27]: "There's nothing better than this."
Hamilton Cast Reunion and Personal Stories:
The conversation shifts to the original cast reunion of Hamilton, reflecting on its decade-long Broadway tenure. Groff shares nostalgic anecdotes, including his interactions with cast members like Lynn and Pedro Pascal.
Jimmy Fallon [32:19]: "You know, he was rapping in it."
Fashion and Personal Interests:
Groff humorously discusses his newfound appreciation for leather chaps, blending personal interests with playful banter about his wardrobe choices for performances.
Jonathan Groff [28:34]: "I'm the baby and those are my first chaps."
Final Remarks and Upcoming Events:
As the interview wraps up, Groff expresses excitement for upcoming performances and the Tony Awards, reinforcing his passion for the craft and the theater community.
Jonathan Groff [32:56]: "There's nothing better than this."
6. Closing Remarks and Musical Performance
Jimmy Fallon concludes the episode by thanking his guests, Dakota Johnson and Jonathan Groff, and acknowledging the musical contributions from the Roots. He encourages viewers to support Broadway by directing them to official ticket websites.
Jimmy Fallon [35:17]: "My thanks to Dakota Johnson, Jonathan Brock and the Roots from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Good night, everybody."
Notable Quotes with Timestamps:
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Jimmy Fallon on Elon Musk’s Black Eye:
"Elon Musk has officially left the federal government and he showed up to his farewell event in the Oval Office with a black eye."
[01:08] -
Jon Off on Whack a Mole Passion:
"After all these years of doing it, I've become an expert."
[05:08] -
Dakota Johnson on Materialist’s Theme:
"Materialist is about a matchmaker in New York City who is very, very good at her job."
[23:14] -
Jonathan Groff on His Broadway Experience:
"There's nothing better than this."
[30:27] -
Jonathan Groff’s Gratitude to Sue Fisher:
"She sat me down after the play in middle school and said, you should pursue this as a career."
[26:05]
Final Thoughts
This episode of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon masterfully blends humor with heartfelt conversations, highlighting the multifaceted talents of its guests. From playful news reimaginations and comedic sketches to in-depth interviews with acclaimed actors Dakota Johnson and Jonathan Groff, the show offers a rich and engaging experience. Not only does it keep the audience entertained with timely jokes and amusing anecdotes, but it also provides meaningful insights into the personal and professional lives of its guests. Whether discussing the latest in pop culture, Broadway triumphs, or the quirks of famous personalities, Jimmy Fallon ensures that both long-time fans and new listeners find something to enjoy and remember.
