Jimmy Fallon Makes His Debut on ‘Tonight Show’ (Video)

Jimmy Fallon made his debut as host of NBC’s Tonight Show last night by unveiling a brand new New York City-based set, expressing thanks to his parents and paying homage to the show’s previous hosts.

In addition to scheduled guests Will Smith and the band U2, the show also featured surprise appearances by a number of celebrities, including Robert De Niro, Tina Fey, Rudy Giuliani, Joan Rivers, Kim Kardashian, Lindsay Lohan, Stephen Colbert and others.

Fallon began his monologue (which you can see below) with a reference to NBC’s past Tonight Show-hosting controversies, telling the audience, “I’m Jimmy Fallon. I’ll be your host – for now.”  At one point the new host introduced his parents in the audience and told them, “I hope you’re proud of me.” He also joked, “I wish I could have gotten you better seats, but it’s a hot show.”

Tonight Jimmy welcomes Jerry Seinfeld, Kristen Wiig, and Lady Gaga. Tomorrow night, Bradley Cooper and Tim McGraw.