Dave Portnoy is pulling back the curtain on one of the biggest podcast breakups in recent memory.
In his newly released memoir, the founder of the Barstool Sports website revisits the dramatic collapse of “Call Her Daddy,” claiming the split involved secret meetings, explosive contract demands, and allegations he says could have destroyed his company.
Years after the blockbuster fallout between Alex Cooper, Sofia Franklyn, and Barstool, Portnoy is now sharing his version of events in striking detail.
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According to Dave Portnoy, the partnership between Barstool Sports and “Call Her Daddy” appeared stable until Alex Cooper and Sofia Franklyn traveled to Los Angeles to appear on Logan Paul’s podcast in April 2019.
The social media personality claimed there had been no signs of unhappiness before that trip, writing per the Daily Mail, “There was no indication that Alex and Sofia were unhappy with their situation, until they met Logan Paul.”
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He alleged that conversations with Paul about their contracts and compensation planted doubts that grew over the following months.
Portnoy wrote that the hosts gradually distanced themselves from Barstool, first by staying away from the office, and eventually by hiring a lawyer to renegotiate their contracts.
He described the meeting as a turning point, claiming their demands included $1 million annually for each host, ownership of the “Call Her Daddy” intellectual property, control over advertising sales, 90 percent of merchandise revenue, and employee reclassification.
Portnoy said the requests were so extreme that he couldn’t even finish the meeting. He also alleged that former HBO executive Peter Nelson, who was dating Franklyn at the time, played a significant role in the negotiations.
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Franklyn has previously denied those claims, saying speculation surrounding Nelson’s involvement was false and that he was not heavily involved.
Portnoy Claims Podcast Went Silent During Contract Standoff
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As negotiations intensified, Dave Portnoy alleged that the hosts stopped releasing new episodes to pressure Barstool into accepting their demands.
He said the production freeze raised the possibility of legal action for breach of contract, setting off increasingly tense negotiations between the two sides.
Portnoy recalled arranging a private meeting with the hosts on the rooftop of his apartment building, where he presented what he described as “the most generous offer in Barstool history.”
According to him, the proposal would have made both Cooper and Franklyn instant millionaires while allowing them to continue building the successful podcast.
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Despite the offer, Portnoy said the dispute remained unresolved. The standoff ultimately became one of the most public contract battles in podcasting, eventually leading to the end of the original “Call Her Daddy” partnership and Franklyn’s departure from the show.
Dave Portnoy Says Alex Cooper Secretly Met With Him Alone
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One of the biggest revelations in Portnoy’s memoir centers on a private meeting he claims took place between himself and Cooper without Franklyn present.
According to the 49-year-old, Cooper asked for another rooftop meeting after reviewing his revised offer.
He recalled the 31-year-old telling him, “I love the deal you proposed, and I want to take it. But Sofia is never going to take it.”
Portnoy said he reminded Cooper that Barstool would pursue legal action if the podcast moved elsewhere before the contract expired.
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He then made his most explosive allegation, claiming Cooper revealed that she and Franklyn had discussed accusing Barstool of sexual harassment to escape their contractual obligations.
Portnoy wrote that the alleged strategy would have been used if Barstool refused to surrender ownership of the podcast.
He acknowledged the seriousness of the accusation, writing, “I realize that this is a heavy accusation I just made: how Call Her Daddy was allegedly planning to break their contract with us by lying about sexual harassment at Barstool.”
Portnoy Says Public Opinion Would Have Been Against Him
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Reflecting on that alleged conversation, Dave Portnoy argued that Barstool would have faced an uphill battle if sexual harassment accusations had become public.
He noted that Barstool had long been criticized for controversial humor but said the company had never previously faced allegations of inappropriate workplace conduct.
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Portnoy wrote that even if he believed the accusations were false, “Nobody would have believed my side of the story.”
He suggested public perception alone could have inflicted lasting damage on both him and the company, regardless of the outcome of any legal dispute.
The businessman described the moment as one of the most significant crises he had ever faced while running the company.
Dave Portnoy Fires Back At Sofia Franklyn Ahead Of Her Own Memoir
Portnoy also addressed reports that Franklyn is preparing to release her own book, acknowledging that he has no idea what her version of events will include.
While leaving open the possibility that parts of her story could be accurate, he did not hide his opinion.
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“Listen, I have no idea what she’ll write in her book,” Portnoy wrote before adding, “In my book, Sofia Franklyn is a f*cking liar.”
He also argued that some readers may automatically side with Franklyn for a variety of personal reasons, but insisted his account reflects what he believes happened behind the scenes.
Portnoy concluded by criticizing those who view Franklyn as a feminist figure, writing that he believes anyone supporting her should remember his allegation that she was willing to falsely weaponize claims of sexual harassment.
This article covers a developing story. Continue to check back with us as we will be adding more information as it becomes available.
Victor Willis, frontman of the legendary disco group Village People and co-writer of classic hits like “Y.M.C.A.” and “Macho Man,” has died at the age of 74. News of the artist’s passing was first posted on the official Village People Facebook page in a statement. “We are profoundly sad to announce the death of Victor Willis, lead singer of Village People. Victor passed on Monday June 30, 2026 of a short but aggressive illness. Privacy is requested.”
This article covers a developing story. Continue to check back with us as we will be adding more information as it becomes available.
Season 20 of Bravo’s “The Real Housewives of Orange County” premieres on July 9, with Shannon Beadoramong the returning cast members. Recently, ahead of the first episode, the 62-year-old “RHOC” fan-favorite opened up about what fans can expect and why the season felt reminiscent of when she first joined.
Beador’s comments about the upcoming “Real Housewives of Orange County” season come weeks after her beloved dog, Archie, passed away.
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Beador attended the premiere event for season 20 of “The Real Housewives of Orange County” on June 30. While on the red carpet, “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” star Bozoma Saint John interviewed her for ExtraTV. During the chat, Beador was asked if she thought she’d enjoy herself at the premiere.
She responded, “I am, and I’m about to enjoy this season because it’s been a rough couple.” After that, the “RHOC” star said fans will see the “silly” side of her and that she’s “laughing a lot.” Saint John then joked with Beador, saying, “Some people told me that you’re 90% of the drama in the last 10 years.”
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From there, she reflected on the season, saying, “Sometimes you walk in, you start a season, and you go, ‘It’s just gonna be light and breezy.’”
The Beloved Bravo Star Also Explained Why Season 20 ‘Felt Nostalgic’
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Following Beador’s initial comments, Saint John asked, “So, this season felt peaceful to you?” The “RHOC” star considered the question, then said, “You know what, it felt nostalgic for me before it’s my 12th year on the show, and it was reminiscent of when I first started and we just kind of had silly fun.”
Beador went on to address how “dark” some of the show’s more recent seasons became. According to her, “And in the end, we come back together. It got a little dark the last couple of years, so I’m grateful that it’s not that way anymore.”
Saint John then mentioned Vicki Gunvalson, who is returning as a main cast member for “RHOC” season 20. When asked for her thoughts on Gunvalson’s return, Beador said, “Well, she’s one of my best friends, so we talk every single day.”
She continued by revealing what she loves about Gunvalson. According to her, “You can go in and think you’re gonna have a conversation about something, and it turns into something completely else.” Beador then called her onscreen chemistry with Gunvalson “a constant banter,” stating that it’s “always fun to film with her.”
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Fans Are Mixed On ‘RHOC’
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“The Real Housewives of Orange County” remains one of Bravo’s most popular shows. However, following the events of season 19 and Katie Ginella‘s firing, many have doubts about the series’ future. This was compounded by what many fans of the show called a boring trailer for the new season.
First, regarding Beador’s description of the season, one person stated, “We love a silly Shannon!” Someone else said, “We love Shannon.” However, in terms of the season itself, a fan wrote, “I’m kind of over the OC, which is crazy as I’ve been watching since the beginning. It’s just too contrived.”
A different social media user said, “Seriously?? The most boring trailer I have seen in a while.” Someone else criticized the preview, saying, “The only thing that sparked any emotion was Jennifer’s son saying he was being treated badly while crying. That’s heartbreaking.”
Lastly, another person said, “It’s time for a new cast; it’s too recycled and forced at this point… too aware of cameras.”
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Shannon Says She’s Not Dating
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In a different section of Beador’s ExtraTV interview with Saint John, she was asked about her dating life. She responded, bluntly, “No, I don’t date. I haven’t been on a date.” After that, Beador revealed that her costars, Heather Dubrow and Gina Kirschenheiter, had previously tried to set her up with someone.
When asked what she’s looking for in a man, she stated, “It’s not a long list. Someone with a kind heart that has good family values and is fun.” Beador also said that she wants someone who “believes in their faith” and is “decent looking.”
The ‘RHOC’ Star Previously Opened Up About Her Love Life
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Beador appeared on the first season of Bravo’s “Love Hotel.” Over the course of the season, she became quite close to contestants Adam Rubin and Phillip Westbrooks. In 2025, the “Real Housewives of Orange County” star gave an update to Page Six.
She said of where she stood with the two men, “Let’s make it clear: They are only friends. I eliminated Adam, but we are good friends. He and Phil live in California, so I see them often.” She also stated that she keeps in contact with some of the other contestants from dating series.
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Whether you’re walking around Paris or New York City, chances are you’ll see ballerina sneakerseverywhere. Rich moms are especially obsessed with the 2026 shoe trend, and given how comfy and chic this style is, we understand why. The summer-friendly design is just as versatile as white sneakers, but 10 times classier.
These sneaker-flat hybrids make a real case for themselves, featuring round toe boxes, low rubber soles and laces or straps that lean mega sophisticated. We’ve already spotted ballerina sneakers on Nicole Kidman and Kate Hudson, so don’t wait to jump on the trend!
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11 Ballerina Sneakers Trending for 2026
1. Our Favorite: Ribbon laces and a gum sole give these ballerina sneakers that dance-meets-street appeal. The lace embellishments add just enough prettiness to dress up jeans.
2. Comfy Clouds: Memory foam insoles cushion every step in these Mary Jane sneakers, so the dainty strap doesn’t mean a dainty footbed.
3. Extra Sleek: A streamlined silhouette and under-$50 price tag make these sleek kicks an easy ‘yes.’ Minimal detailing means they pair with everything in your wardrobe.
4. Sassy Stunner: Leopard print does the talking on these elevated shoes, so the rest of your outfit can stay simple.
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5. Metallic Maven: Birthday parties call for these silver sneakerinas. Ankle ties make them dressy while the secure fit means you can actually dance.
In case you missed it, chunky sneakers are out in favor of a sleeker, more elegant alternative. Pamela Anderson put the trend into action, wearing a classy sneaker style that didn’t just complete her outfit, but made it. We found Anderson’s polished look for just $35 on Amazon! A few days ago, Anderson wandered around Saint-Tropez, picnic […]
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6. Power Walker: A medium-thick strap keeps Tigeridea’s sporty Mary Jane sneakers secure, whether you’re logging steps in the neighborhood or the airport.
7. Rich Mom Status: These blush-pink lace-ups channel serious designer energy. Plus, the cut leans more sneaker than ballet, so they truly walk like trainers.
8. New Drop: Puma jumped in! This 2026 drop brings the brand’s reliable comfort to the ballerina sneaker conversation.
9. Cute Converse: If you’ve worn Chuck Taylors for decades, but want something that feels fresh, these double-strap Converse update the formula.
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10. Elevated Adidas: When regular sneakers feel too casual, these low-profile ballet shoes slide cleanly under cropped trousers, animal print or not.
11. So Splurge-Worthy: This leather-like Vivaia pair sits in splurge territory, but craftsmanship justifies the jump. Triple-layer cushioning is just a bonus.
If you’ve written off flip-flops, wait until you see the popular rich mom styles for 2026. This season’s flip-flops look like shoes you’d *actually* pick for brunches and date nights, not just pool parties. With smooth straps, occasional pops of color and luxe-looking silhouettes, these sandals belong in your rotation. The trendiest picks come from […]
This article covers a developing story. Continue to check back with us as we will be adding more information as it becomes available.
During an interview with People Magazine, Danny Glover, famed for his role in the Lethal Weapon franchise, revealed that he has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.
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Release Date
March 6, 1987
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Runtime
110 minutes
Director
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Richard Donner
Writers
Shane Black
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Danny Glover
Roger Murtaugh
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This article covers a developing story. Continue to check back with us as we will be adding more information as it becomes available.
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s expected wedding celebration is already creating a buzz long before the first guest arrives.
Reports suggest Madison Square Garden has implemented extraordinary measures as preparations ramp up, leaving employees facing unexpected restrictions and heightened security.
With vendors moving in, streets around the iconic venue seeing unusual activity, and guests reportedly bound by strict confidentiality agreements, anticipation surrounding one of the year’s biggest celebrity events continues to reach new heights.
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Madison Square Garden is reportedly operating under unusual rules as Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s wedding festivities approach.
According to Page Six, corporate employees have been told they are not permitted inside the venue throughout the week.
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“MSG is off limits to all corporate employees this week,” a source claimed, adding that employees “were not given a reason why it’s a no-go zone.”
The restrictions are expected to remain in place until July 5, when staff members can reportedly return to their regular work schedules.
Separate reports from TMZ indicate that employees working in event production have also been subjected to tighter security protocols.
Staff members are allegedly prohibited from carrying their phones while working inside the building, an apparent effort to prevent photos from leaking online.
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Workers have also reportedly been issued wristbands and must pass through an additional layer of security before entering the arena, even though many reportedly have no idea what event is taking place inside.
Swift Expected To Host Two Separate Wedding Celebrations
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As speculation continues, reports suggest Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce will celebrate their marriage across two separate events inside the famous New York venue.
Sources previously told Page Six that an intimate gathering is expected to take place Thursday, July 2, with roughly 100 of the couple’s closest relatives and friends attending what has been described as a rehearsal dinner.
The larger celebration is reportedly planned for the following day, with approximately 1,000 guests expected to attend. Those invited could also be treated to performances by music legends Stevie Nicks and Tim McGraw.
The secrecy surrounding the event has reportedly been extensive. “Everyone’s been sworn to secrecy,” one insider revealed, with guests reportedly required to sign nondisclosure agreements before confirming their attendance.
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The venue itself offers an added level of privacy. Madison Square Garden’s multiple entrances and extensive security infrastructure reportedly made it an appealing venue for the couple, as they focus on keeping the celebration out of public view.
Taylor Swift Venue Shows Growing Signs Of Major Event
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Outside the arena, preparations have become increasingly difficult to ignore. Madison Square Garden currently has no public events listed between June 29 and July 6, adding to speculation surrounding the reported wedding plans.
City Hall has also confirmed that a permit application covering July 2 through July 4 was submitted through New York City’s Street Activity Permit Office.
The application, filed by Winick Productions, reportedly requested temporary street closures surrounding the arena along with permission for a large tent or canopy outside the building.
Meanwhile, recent reports revealed that vendor trucks were unloading equipment along 33rd Street. Among the deliveries were drapery, lighting equipment, chairs, tables and even a “40-inch mirror ball,” suggesting large-scale event production is underway.
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According to previous reports, celebrity wedding planner Mark Seed has spent months organizing the celebration. “He can build something spectacular out of nothing,” one source said while discussing his involvement.
Industry insiders have also noted the challenge of transforming a venue best known for concerts and sporting events into an elegant wedding setting.
Swift Team Reportedly Helps Bring Wedding Vision To Life
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The reported preparations extend beyond New York. Members of Taylor Swift’s team have reportedly been seen at Rock Lititz, the Pennsylvania production campus responsible for creating elaborate concert staging, including elements used during the Eras Tour.
The sighting has fueled speculation that the production expertise behind the Grammy Award winner’s record-breaking concerts may also be helping create the atmosphere for her wedding celebration.
Meanwhile, many of Travis Kelce’s Kansas City Chiefs teammates are expected to attend, with several reportedly reserving rooms at the New York Marriott Marquis in Times Square ahead of the festivities.
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Taylor Swift Said To Be Losing Sleep Over Wedding Planning
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As the big day approaches, sources say Swift is feeling the pressure of making every detail perfect for their family and friends.
As The Blast reported, insiders claimed the 36-year-old has become deeply involved in the planning process despite having an experienced team handling logistics, with one source saying the wedding has become “a full-time job and then some.”
According to the source, Swift wants input on everything because she and Travis Kelce are determined to ensure every guest has “the time of their lives,” especially with such a large invite list.
The insider also alleged that the singer has been experiencing “stress dreams” about details ranging from the wedding cake to her dress.
While the planning has reportedly become overwhelming, the couple remains excited about the celebration, though insiders claim they “can’t wait for it to be over” simply because of the enormous pressure of organizing such a high-profile event.
Rob Kardashian is making a rare appearance with his family, including daughter Dream.
Rob’s sister, Khloé Kardashian, shared a series of family photos via Instagram on Tuesday, June 30, including several snaps of her younger brother. In one photo, Rob, 39, can be seen smiling for the camera as he poses alongside his mom, Kris Jenner, sisters Kourtney, Kim and Khloé and daughter Dream.
Khloé, 42, also shared some pictures of Rob and Dream, 9, together. (Rob shares Dream with ex-girlfriend Blac Chyna.)
The former sock designer was all smiles in sportswear, including a black T-shirt, blue shorts and a matching blue baseball cap. Dream rocked a white top and light blue jeans.
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“How blessed am I? Missing a few but they’re always with me ♥️,” Khloé captioned her post.
Rob responded, “We are so Blessed to have you! We love you so much!!! 🩵🩵🩵💙💙💙🫂.”
Kardashian-Jenner matriarch Kris, 70, chimed in, “My heart ❤️.”
Rob has largely stayed out of the spotlight following the conclusion of E!’s Keeping Up With the Kardashians in 2021.
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He briefly joined sister Khloé on her “Khloé in Wonder Land” podcast in July 2025, explaining why he stepped back from filming with his family, who currently star on Hulu’s The Kardashians.
“I don’t wanna be filming and putting myself in a position where I’m not comfortable,” he shared. “I’m not comfortable in my skin, so why would I wanna go be on camera and just be vulnerable and let people in when that’s not what I wanna do?”
“I’m not just gonna put myself out there if I’m not comfortable with myself,” he added. “I haven’t been comfortable with myself for years, and, also, filming and doing all that, it’s not for everybody. I choose my own happiness and peace rather than just filming for somebody who doesn’t do anything for me in my personal life.”
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Khloé then asked Rob if he would ever make a guest appearance on the family’s Hulu reality show.
As tradition, the Kardashian-Jenner family had a very hoppy Easter. Thank You! You have successfully subscribed. Subscribe to newsletters Enter your email Please enter a valid email. Subscribe By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy and to receive emails from Us Weekly Deal of the Day Stop Scrolling! This 46%-Off Floral […]
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“I love filming if it’s positive and if it’s natural and I’m feeling good about myself, then of course, and [if] I’m comfortable,” he said. “Of course, I like being around my family. That stuff is good to me. Of course, I would film. I have nothing against it. The reason I don’t is because I’m a homebody and I just choose my peace and happiness rather than filming.”
Rob also dispelled speculation of a rift with his family. “There’s definitely nothing wrong between any of us,” he said.
Jimmy Fallon continues to face backlash from several corners following his recent interview with Conor McGregor.
The late-night show host has yet to address his decision to platform the disgraced UFC fighter, but PR experts now suggest that may be expected as his team waits for the outrage to die down.
McGregor was found civilly liable after Nikita Hand accused him of isolating her in a Dublin hotel room in 2018 and sexually assaulting her. He has denied the allegation and maintained that the encounter was consensual.
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Jimmy Fallon recently hosted Conor McGregor on his “The Tonight Show” as the embattled UFC fighter prepared for his return to the famous Octagon.
During the appearance, McGregor gifted the late-night host an “Unapologetic” cigar before they discussed several topics, including his UFC comeback.
After the video aired, several internet users slammed Fallon for platforming McGregor, citing the controversies that have followed him in recent years, as well as Nikita Hand’s rape allegation.
McGregor was found civilly liable in the case, with Hand suffering bruises on different parts of her body, a bloodied scratch to her breast, and a possible tear to her private parts. He has continued to deny the allegation, claiming the encounter was consensual, but later lost his appeal against the ruling.
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PR Expert Claims Fallon Is Letting Backlash Fade
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Now, more than a week after the controversial interview, “The Tonight Show” host has not addressed the issue, seemingly choosing to let the uproar die a natural death.
Industry crisis management experts have suggested that Fallon’s tight-lipped approach may be deliberate.
In a conversation with Metro, PR expert Laura Perkes explained that staying silent in a situation like this can look counterproductive, but in corporate public relations, it is often viewed as a calculated way to starve the news cycle.
“They’re doing reputation management 101,” Perkes declared. “The interview happened, it aired, people are not happy, so rather than perpetuating it themselves, I think they’re then making sure that their social media is holding a more positive light.”
She continued, “They’re showing clips from past guests, and again, there are so many episodes from the next day or the day after; people have moved on because there’s been another thing.”
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Perkes also pointed out that Fallon may not have much control over who sits on the couch and still has to be a warm host who can “provide a brilliant interview.”
She added, “They probably had to agree: ‘These are the seven questions.’ It’s a lifestyle show, it’s an entertainment show, so I think they wanted to keep it light and entertaining, despite the facts of McGregor’s background.”
Jimmy Fallon Set To ‘Turn The Other Cheek’
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Despite the outrage, Perkes went further to suggest that Fallon may not suffer any lasting harm, as people are quick to move on because of the fast-paced nature of social media.
She suggested that the days of issuing a statement to address issues like these may be long gone, because it is now easier to “turn the other cheek and not worry about it.”
“For celebrities and their teams to be like: ‘These newspapers are tomorrow’s fish and chip wrapper, we’ll monitor the consequences and go from there,’” she explained.
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Perkes added that the backlash is unlikely to have any “career repercussions” for Fallon and could even bring new viewers to his show.
She explained, “But then there are other people who didn’t know about Jimmy Fallon, or they didn’t know ‘The Tonight Show,’ and they’ll look at clips on TikTok, and realize: ‘Oh, actually, he’s actually a really fun guy’ and look for his interviews.”
Fans Accuse Fallon Of Repeating Trump Move
When the interview first aired, netizens branded Fallon as “spineless” and “pathetic” for allowing McGregor on the show, while others quickly argued that he has a pattern of cozying up to controversial figures.
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One social media user posted a picture of Fallon ruffling Donald Trump’s hair during a 2016 episode, when he asked to “mess up” the then-presidential candidate’s hair.
In a 2023 ruling, a New York court found that Trump abused and defamed E. Jean Carroll over an incident that happened more than three decades ago.
People piled on Fallon at the time, accusing him of “humanizing and normalizing” Trump, sparking a massive uproar among fans. The veteran host later addressed the issue and admitted that he had been soft on Trump.
“I didn’t do it to humanize him,” he said in an interview with The New York Times months later. “I almost did it to minimize him. I didn’t think that would be a compliment, ‘He did the thing that we all wanted to do.’”
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Will McGregor Backlash Scare Celebrities Off Jimmy Fallon’s Show?
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Meanwhile, Perkes also suggested that the situation with McGregor will not stop other celebrities from sitting on Fallon’s famous sofa for interviews of their own.
“Let’s face it, celebrities exist to draw attention to themselves, the film they’re in, the album they’re about to release, or the tour they’re about to go on,” she said.
The expert added, “Their press team will have to weigh up the pros and cons that being on this show will deliver, and they will probably say there are more positives.”
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