The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon
Episode: Trump’s Approval Rating Down in Flames, Supporters Burn MAGA Hats in Protest | Russell Wilson, Lola Tung, Gavin Casalegno, Christopher Briney
Release Date: July 16, 2025
Introduction
In this engaging episode of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, host Jimmy Fallon delves into the latest political developments, shares humorous takes on current events, and welcomes a star-studded lineup of guests. Highlights include a candid conversation with former President Barack Obama, a playful game segment featuring NFL star Russell Wilson, and appearances by the cast of the popular series The Summer I Turn Pretty. The episode is rich with humor, insightful commentary, and entertaining interactions that captivate both long-time fans and new listeners alike.
Opening Monologue: Political Hot Takes
Jimmy Fallon kicks off the show with his trademark witty monologue, addressing the tumultuous state of American politics. He highlights former President Donald Trump's declining approval ratings and the surprising protests where Trump supporters are burning their MAGA hats in defiance.
Jimmy Fallon [01:10]: "Trump is still facing criticism for his handling of the Epstein files. And apparently, some Trump supporters are burning their MAGA hats in protest."
Fallon humorously critiques the dynamic between Trump and his wife Melania, emphasizing their recent public interactions.
Jimmy Fallon [01:20]: "Trump just said that he takes advice from Melania on how to deal with Vladimir Putin. I think the bigger story here is that Trump and Melania actually speak to each other."
He further satirizes the political tensions by mocking Trump's attempts to downplay issues with Vladimir Putin and the ongoing controversies surrounding Epstein's files.
Jimmy Fallon [01:30]: "As of now, Trump is keeping the information totally classified, AKA in the bathroom at Mar-a-Lago. Yet the excuses are getting worse and worse."
Special Guest: Barack Obama
The spotlight shifts to a highly anticipated interview with former President Barack Obama, who shares his candid and humorous views on the Democratic Party's current state.
Barack Obama [03:03]: "We just need much tougher Democrats."
Obama humorously critiques key Democratic figures, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senator Bernie Sanders, poking fun at their perceived lack of toughness.
Barack Obama [03:30]: "Bernie Sanders. What do you think he can bench, 100, 200 ounces?"
Their lighthearted banter continues as they discuss President Joe Biden's tenure, with Obama delivering playful jabs.
Barack Obama [04:01]: "One time I sneezed and he blew through the Oval Office wall. He made an outline of himself like Wile E. Coyote."
Obama's humorous take underscores his point about the need for stronger Democratic leadership, eliciting laughter from both Fallon and the audience.
Political Satire: Tariffs and Tomato Prices
Fallon segues into a satirical segment addressing the economic impacts of Trump's tariffs. He mocks the administration's attempts to justify rising prices of everyday items like coffee and tomatoes.
Jimmy Fallon [05:14]: "Trump's new tariffs on Brazil are expected to raise coffee prices. As a result, people have resorted to making tea out of Zyn pouches."
He parodies corporate responses to these economic changes, featuring faux commercials for Heinz and Hunt's Ketchup.
Jimmy Fallon [06:12]: "Heinz wants all our loyal customers to know that as the cost of tomatoes rises, we'll try to keep our prices as low as possible. We're all in this together, Heinz."
Barack Obama [06:14]: "Our prices are staying put."
The playful exchanges highlight the absurdity of the situation, blending humor with sharp political commentary.
Trending Topics: Bluey Takes Over Digital Platforms
In a brief interlude, Fallon discusses the phenomenal success of the animated show Bluey, noting its unprecedented streaming numbers.
Jimmy Fallon [06:26]: "Bluey is the most streamed show this year at almost 25 billion minutes. That's more than Squid Game, White Lotus, and Love Island combined."
The conversation includes light-hearted confusion among guests about the show's characters, adding a relatable and humorous touch.
Segment: Put it on a Cracker
Fallon introduces the fun and quirky game segment, "Put it on a Cracker," where contestants guess the toppings on a cracker blindfolded. This episode features Contestant Kieran from Long Island and Contestant Catherine from Arlington, Texas.
The segment showcases Fallon’s comedic flair as he explains the elaborate and humorous rules of the game, complete with exaggerated props like pre-worn cummerbunds used as blindfolds.
Jimmy Fallon [09:10]: "Put it on a Cracker, America's second favorite cracker-themed game."
Contestant Kieran earns 42 points by accurately guessing caviar, ketchup, and grapes on his cracker, while Contestant Catherine scores 37 points with her guesses.
Jimmy Fallon [12:21]: "Kieran, great job. You can go over there."
The segment concludes with a tied score, leading to a humorous resolution based on audience applause.
Celebrity Guest: Russell Wilson
Returning to the stage, NFL star Russell Wilson joins Fallon to discuss his recent move to the New York Giants and his entrepreneurial ventures. The conversation blends sports, business, and personal anecdotes, providing fans with an in-depth look into Wilson's multifaceted life.
Launching Three Brand
Wilson shares insights into his shoe company, Three Brand, highlighting its faith-based approach and commitment to quality.
Russell Wilson [18:05]: "I'm actually wearing them too. Yeah, you got the even good man on the bottom there."
He humorously likens men's fashion to basketball, explaining how his business objectives intertwine with his personal life and aspirations.
Russell Wilson [18:15]: "That's how it all started. And so it's been really cool because I really want to be the first faith-based shoe brand, luxury shoe brand, seven days a week wear for men."
Family Life and Fun Stories
Wilson affectionately talks about his family, particularly his daughter Sienna, sharing a heartwarming story about her losing a tooth during a Zoom interview.
Russell Wilson [17:35]: "Yeah, Winnie ran in and lost her tooth live on the moment."
He also discusses his brief and humorous stint associated with the New York Yankees, adding a playful twist to his multifaceted career.
Russell Wilson [23:35]: "I went to big league spring training. I'm doing BP. I'm feeling great. Just crushing home runs."
Professional Transition
Discussing his transition to the New York Giants, Wilson expresses his excitement and commitment to the team.
Russell Wilson [20:35]: "It feels giant. Like. No, it's super fun. I'm excited about it."
He praises the team's work ethic and the leadership of Coach Daboll, emphasizing his dedication to contributing to the Giants' success.
Russell Wilson [21:11]: "We got a great receiver core. We got great running backs. That's you, that's you."
The interview concludes with Fallon congratulating Wilson on his Sports Illustrated cover and expressing support for his endeavors.
Jimmy Fallon [25:50]: "We're rooting for you, pal."
Featured Guests: The Summer I Turn Pretty
The cast of The Summer I Turn Pretty—Lola Tung, Gavin Castellano, and Christopher Briney—joins Fallon to discuss the highly anticipated third and final season of their hit series. The conversation delves into the emotional arcs, character developments, and fan reactions surrounding the show's conclusion.
Season Finale Reflections
The actors reflect on the significance of the series ending, sharing personal feelings and the challenges of wrapping up their characters' journeys.
Lola Tung [27:07]: "I feel like it won't sink in until it's out. And then people are rewatching it."
They discuss the creative process behind keeping the final season secretive and the pressures of meeting fan expectations.
Gavin Castellano [27:16]: "It's Jenny's story. I think she has always decided where this story starts and ends."
Fan Engagement and Theories
The cast touches upon the enthusiastic and sometimes intense reactions from fans, including the division between fans supporting different romantic pairings in the show.
Gavin Castellano [28:35]: "Sometimes it's like not even a hi, hello. It's like a by-the-way impassive. I'm team whatever."
They share amusing anecdotes about fan interactions and the impact of the show's popular soundtrack, particularly Taylor Swift's music.
Lola Tung [29:38]: "I went to the Eras tour concert with lots of tunes with Jenny Han, who's the creator of our show."
Behind-the-Scenes Stories
Fallon encourages the cast to share behind-the-scenes moments, leading to funny stories about stealing props and mishaps during filming.
Lola Tung [31:22]: "We took his keys, and then we hit it, and then he came out and we were like, I don't know where your car is, man."
These stories highlight the camaraderie and playful dynamics among the cast members, adding depth to their on-screen chemistry.
Season Three Expectations
As the final season approaches, the guests outline what fans can expect, emphasizing emotional depth and character growth.
Gavin Castellano [33:11]: "I think it's a lot more of the emotional rollercoaster you're used to, I guess."
They reassure viewers that the series will deliver a satisfying conclusion, staying true to the original book trilogy's narrative arc.
Conclusion
In this memorable episode, Jimmy Fallon masterfully balances humor, political satire, and heartfelt conversations, creating a dynamic and engaging experience for listeners. From playful political commentary and celebrity interviews to behind-the-scenes insights from beloved TV stars, the show delivers a rich tapestry of entertainment that resonates with a diverse audience. Whether discussing the intricacies of modern politics, celebrating athletic and entrepreneurial achievements, or bidding farewell to a cherished TV series, Fallon ensures that each moment is both entertaining and meaningful.
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