Kathy Griffin claims ban from The Tonight Show, NBC denies

Comedian Kathy Griffin has publicly claimed she is banned from "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon," alleging she is considered too controversial for the program. Griffin made the statements in a social media video posted on Tuesday, June 30, 2026.

Griffin said she has not appeared on the NBC late-night show since Jimmy Fallon became host in 2014, with her last appearance dating back to 2013 when Jay Leno was host. She speculated that producers "just can't seem to find room for you," suggesting an informal ban. However, a representative for "The Tonight Show" told Variety that Griffin's claims were "entirely false."

In the same video, Griffin criticized Fallon's recent decision to host former UFC champion Conor McGregor as a guest. McGregor appeared on the program on June 16 to promote a comeback fight. In late 2024 or early 2025, McGregor was found civilly liable for assault in a case brought by a woman and was ordered to pay over $200,000 in damages. He has maintained the encounter was consensual and lost an appeal.

"I do think it was a bad call for him to have Conor McGregor on," Griffin said. "I think it sends yet another message to women and marginalized folks everywhere...