Kathy Griffin has alleged that she is effectively barred from appearing on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, while also condemning the program's decision to feature former UFC champion Conor McGregor as a guest. The comedian shared her grievances in an Instagram video posted on June 30, reflecting on her history with late-night television and questioning why she has not been invited onto Fallon's iteration of the show.
Griffin's Claims of Being Banned
Griffin stated that her last appearance on the program occurred when it still occupied its previous 12:30 a.m. timeslot, before Fallon took over as host. "I have not done the Jimmy Fallon show since it was on at 12.30 Eastern and Pacific, so I guess I am banned from the Fallon show, or inappropriate, or too controversial," Griffin said. She added that television programs rarely inform guests of an outright ban, instead simply ceasing to extend invitations.
Despite Griffin's assertions, representatives for The Tonight Show declined to comment publicly. According to sources familiar with the matter, Griffin's description of events was exaggerated, and there was no confirmation that she had been formally banned from the program. A representative for Fallon also did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Criticism of Conor McGregor's Appearance
Griffin also took aim at Fallon for inviting McGregor onto the show earlier in June. McGregor appeared on June 16 to promote his planned UFC return against Max Holloway. Griffin argued that booking the fighter sent the wrong message, particularly in light of a high-profile civil case in Ireland. In November 2024, an Irish High Court jury found McGregor liable in a civil sexual assault case brought by Nikita Hand, who accused him of raping her in a Dublin hotel in 2018. McGregor denied the allegation throughout the proceedings. The jury ruled in favor of Hand and awarded her damages of almost €250,000 (approximately $257,000 at the time). The case was civil rather than criminal, meaning McGregor was found liable rather than convicted of a criminal offense.
Referring to McGregor's television appearance, Griffin said she believed the booking sent a damaging signal to women and marginalized communities by continuing to provide a major platform to someone who had been found liable in such a case. She described the decision as a mistake and argued that public figures should face greater accountability for their actions.
Griffin's Ongoing Criticism and Career
In the caption accompanying her Instagram post, Griffin continued her criticism of Fallon and promoted the latest episode of her YouTube series, Kathy Griffin: Talk Your Head Off. She wrote that people should reserve canceling public figures for those who truly deserve it and questioned the message sent by featuring McGregor on a high-profile entertainment program. Griffin has long been known for her outspoken comedy and willingness to challenge celebrities, politicians, and television executives. Throughout her career, she has frequently spoken about losing professional opportunities because of controversy surrounding her public comments and performances. Her latest remarks continue that pattern, combining criticism of the entertainment industry with wider concerns about accountability and representation. Neither NBC nor Fallon has publicly addressed Griffin's broader criticism beyond declining to comment on her claims.
