Jimmy Fallon Monologue Selection

Jimmy Fallon reviews dozens of writer submissions, edits jokes with a sharpie, and tests punchlines live in his daily monologue routine.

5 time blocks, 60 minutes in total.

Time blocks

Writer Submission Review: 15 min
Scan through fresh joke submissions from the writing team
Sharpie Edit Pass: 10 min
Circle promising setups and cut weak punchlines on the printout
Cadence Read Through: 10 min
Read selections aloud to check rhythm and delivery timing
Test Monologue Run: 15 min
Perform shortlisted jokes to a small audience to test reactions
Final Lineup Selection: 10 min
Pick the top dozen jokes that scored the strongest reactions

About this routine

Jimmy Fallon's monologue routine turns hundreds of raw joke submissions into a tight televised comedy segment every afternoon. His team of monologue writers pitches dozens of current events jokes on printed sheets. Fallon sits down with these pages to quickly filter, rearrange, and polish the material.

The selection process relies on visceral editing. Fallon uses a sharpie to cross out wordy setups and circle jokes that catch his eye. He speaks the punchlines out loud to test cadence, adjusting word choices so the timing feels natural for his upbeat stage persona.

Before taping the show, Fallon conducts a rehearsal in front of a small test audience of staff and guests. The real audience reaction dictates the final cut. Jokes that get big laughs make the broadcast lineup, while weaker ones are dropped immediately.

Why this routine works

Filter large volumes of creative ideas down to top performers rapidly
Validate material using real feedback before final presentation
Refine vocal rhythm and punchline timing through out loud iteration

FAQ

How does Jimmy Fallon select jokes for his monologue?

He reviews pages of writer submissions, edits punchlines with a sharpie, reads them aloud, and performs a test rehearsal to let audience laughs decide the final show lineup.

Does Jimmy Fallon write his own monologue?

Fallon works with a team of monologue writers who pitch dozens of options daily. He then personally edits, rewrites, and selects the final jokes.

How long does Jimmy Fallon spend preparing his monologue?

The core selection, editing, and test rehearsal sequence takes about 60 minutes each afternoon before show taping.

Sources

Inside Jimmy Fallon's Tonight Show Pitch Process, Vanity Fair
How Late-Night Monologues Are Made, The New York Times