The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon – Episode Summary
Episode Title: Trump Gets Bogus “Patriot of the Year” Award From Fox News | Angelina Jolie, Sebastian Stan, Andrew Ridgeley, Laura Peek
Release Date: December 6, 2024

Introduction and Monologue

[00:06 - 01:03]
Jimmy Fallon opens the show from Studio 6B at Rockefeller Center, welcoming the audience and introducing the night's lineup, which includes high-profile guests Angelina Jolie, Sebastian Stan, Andrew Ridgeley, comedian Laura Peek, and a special appearance by Dee Legendary Ruth 2064.

[01:11 - 04:51]
Fallon's monologue dives into seasonal topics with his characteristic humor:

• National Christmas Tree Lighting: Fallon jokes about the structural support for the tree, linking the eight steel cables to President Biden’s public appearances.

  "Biden's skin looked like when a bulldog sticks his head out of the car window." ([02:11])

• Fox News and Trump: He humorously critiques Fox News presenting Donald Trump with a fictitious “Patriot of the Year” award, emphasizing its satirical nature.

  "Patriot of the Year is one of the most prestigious awards made out of macaroni." ([02:38])

• Trader Joe's vs. Joe's Wine: A comedic skit features an employee from Joe's Wine responding to a lawsuit from Trader Joe's, highlighting Fallon’s improvisational skills and playful banter.

  "Trader Joe's has that same bell system." ([03:25])

• Uber Delivering Christmas Trees: Fallon quips about the unconventional service, imagining trees arriving with missing branches.

  "Your tree came from an Uber driver when there are several bites taken out of it." ([04:51])

Holiday Seasoning Spectacular Promotion

[05:18 - 07:14]
Fallon promotes his NBC special, "Holiday Seasoning Spectacular," describing it as a blend of original comedy and holiday music. He shares amusing reviews from viewers and teases upcoming segments with celebrity appearances, setting a festive tone before transitioning to the first guest.

Interview with Angelina Jolie

[07:14 - 16:56]
Angelina Jolie discusses her latest film, "Maria," an opera-themed project available in theaters and on Netflix. The conversation covers:

• Producing the Outsider: Jolie explains her motivation for producing the play, emphasizing her appreciation for the creative team and her daughter's support.

  "I produced it because I saw an early workshop of it and I loved what they were doing." ([09:14])

• Personal Insights: She reflects on her discomfort with talk shows and her dedication to roles that challenge her, including learning to sing opera for "Maria."

  "I have to learn how to sing because you can't fake sing opera." ([14:06])

• Character Preparation: Jolie shares anecdotes about embodying Maria Callas, including intensive training and the emotional depth required for the role.

  "The film is kind of an opera, and it's based on a lot of the... she’s reflecting on her life." ([16:08])

Notable Quote:

"This is not something I can do. And I was pretty sure that was one of the things I can't sing." – Angelina Jolie ([13:33])

Interview with Sebastian Stan

[17:05 - 23:40]
Sebastian Stan talks about his acclaimed roles in "A Different Man" and "The Apprentice," the latter portraying a young Donald Trump. Key discussion points include:

• Accolades and Roles: Stan shares his experience receiving awards and working with renowned directors, highlighting his versatility as an actor.

  "It's really all of the above – a thriller, a comedy, a tragedy." ([20:50])

• Portraying Trump: He describes the challenges and humorous aspects of playing Trump, including the mixed reactions from peers and colleagues.

  "You're just really good at humanizing horrible people." ([21:28])

• Transition to Marvel: Stan excitedly mentions his role in the Marvel universe, balancing intense character work with his superhero persona.

  "Do you get kinda... do you slip out of character by mistake?" ([22:36])

Notable Quote:

"I play an actor who has this condition. He has a chance to change his life, look like everybody else... he actually loses out on the life he's supposed to have." – Sebastian Stan ([19:24])

Interview with Andrew Ridgeley

[23:40 - 31:44]
Andrew Ridgeley, co-founder of the legendary band Wham!, discusses the release of their 40th-anniversary EP for "Last Christmas." Highlights include:

• Formation of Wham!: Ridgeley recounts the band's humble beginnings, spontaneous name selection, and early struggles.

  "We had a school band that imploded under the weight of its talent." ([24:35])

• Creation of "Last Christmas": He narrates the inspiration behind the iconic song, sharing memories of its inception and unexpected enduring popularity.

  "The keyboard part was there and the chorus, and it was... kind of the skeleton of 'Last Christmas.'" ([30:26])

• Legacy and Reflections: Ridgeley reflects on Wham!’s impact, George Michael's departure, and the emotional resonance of their music decades later.

  "It became evident... his talent was going to take him somewhere." ([27:14])

Notable Quote:

"Wake me up, up before you go, go." ([29:15])

Interview with Laura Peak

[31:44 - 37:40]
Comedian Laura Peak shares her comedic take on personal experiences and societal observations:

• Identity Theft: Peak hilariously recounts her year-long ordeal with identity theft, turning a frustrating experience into a series of funny anecdotes.

  "This guy steals my identity. He opens up a bunch of credit cards in my name... it's the best year of my life." ([34:27])

• Marriage and Bridesmaids: She jokes about organizing her wedding bridesmaids, highlighting the complexities and rivalries that can arise.

  "Nothing's ruder than eighth." ([34:53])

• Smoking Habits: Peak humorously addresses her struggle with smoking in an era dominated by vaping, contrasting generational habits.

  "I'm the last woman alive doing analog cigarettes." ([35:00])

• Family Stories: She shares heartfelt and funny stories about her grandfather and family traditions, adding depth to her comedic narrative.

  "He's done a lot of good things for me in my life. Maybe the best thing is that I now have a USAA credit card." ([36:45])

Notable Quote:

"I thought he was saying good job, you fat idiot." ([36:18])

Closing Remarks

[38:07 - 38:26]
Fallon wraps up the episode by thanking his guests—Angelina Jolie, Sebastian Stan, Andrew Ridgeley, Laura Peak—and the musical guest, The Roots from Philadelphia. He signs off by encouraging listeners to subscribe to the podcast and watch the show on NBC or stream it on Peacock.

This episode of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon masterfully blends humor, celebrity interviews, and engaging stories, providing viewers with a delightful mix of entertainment and insightful conversations. From Angelina Jolie’s in-depth look at her latest film to Sebastian Stan’s portrayal of Donald Trump and Andrew Ridgeley’s nostalgic recount of Wham!’s hits, the show offers something for every viewer. Laura Peak’s comedic storytelling adds personal flair, ensuring a memorable night filled with laughter and compelling dialogue.