Top 10 Most Candid Talk Show Moments

Top 10 Candid Talk Show Moments

Welcome to MsMojo, and today we’re counting down our picks for the most genuine and/or heartfelt moments on talk shows.

#10: Conan Announces Robin Williams’ Death
“Conan” (2010-21)

Sometimes an important announcement comes at the most unexpected time. This is especially true of this clip from Conan O’Brien’s TBS program in 2014. During a taping of his show, the host received word that Robin Williams had died. The host, Andy Richter, and guest Will Arnett all decide to eulogize the comedian on the spot. They each provide a fitting tribute to a beloved comedy icon. It’s especially impressive to see that they’re all able to muster up the words to say something in such a shocking moment. O’Brien shows that he’s both taken aback by the announcement and a professional that must go on with the show.

#9: Hugh Grant Saves His Career
“The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” (1992-2014)

After being caught with a sex worker in 1995, Hugh Grant had limited options. He decided to turn this interview into one of the more honest admissions in “Tonight Show” history. Jay Leno immediately lets the actor know that he’s made a massive mistake. Grant is deeply regretful and hopes the press will leave his family alone. It’s a commendable moment, with the star working through a major crisis in the midst of a successful decade. This segment likely saved his career with this appearance bringing out the best in him. He shows that underneath the charming exterior is a flawed human asking for sincere understanding. Leno doesn’t let him off easy, but he does give the actor props for showing up.

#8: Norm Macdonald’s Tearful Tribute to Letterman
“Late Show with David Letterman” (1993-2015)

Not long before David Letterman left late night, Norm Macdonald delivered a comic set for his hero. The guest offered up a tribute to the legendary presenter with a few heartfelt words. Macdonald isn’t the type to usually get sentimental, which makes this even more moving. Looking back, it’s possible that his undisclosed health diagnosis might have influenced this reaction. It’s a moving show of respect and a genuine moment between two giants of comedy. If that doesn’t make you emotional, we’re not sure what will. The younger comedian ultimately shows how much he appreciates and loves Letterman.

#7: Surprising Steve on His Birthday
“Steve Harvey” (2012-17)

At times like these, Steve Harvey shows that he’s as much in touch with his emotional side as he is with his comedic one. This birthday episode of his talk show includes a surprise call from two old friends. In an instant, Harvey is transported back to a much different time in his life. You can see on his face that he’s thinking about all of his struggles and his inevitable success. He’s extremely humble at this moment, showing the world that he can cry just like anybody else. It’s particularly moving to watch how much Harvey still loves and admires these two supportive friends.

#6: Dakota Johnson Calls Out Ellen DeGeneres
“The Ellen DeGeneres Show” (2003-22)

In this clip from 2019, Ellen DeGeneres welcomes Dakota Johnson to her talk show. The host asks why she wasn’t invited to Johnson’s birthday. This is disputed by the actress in an awkward confrontation between the two. While DeGeneres starts out joking, it’s clear that she didn’t expect this to escalate. The interview doesn’t settle down either as the awkwardness seems to continue. Through it all, the two professionals try to work through their disagreement as best they can. It’s rare that you get someone called out on television in such an overt way.

#5: Craig Ferguson Defends Britney Spears
“The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson” (2005-14)

Craig Ferguson’s version of the “The Late Late Show” was something of a hidden gem in its day. He was outrageous, silly, and often profound. This moment encompasses all three as he gives his take on Britney Spears’ personal life. It’s all part of a monologue about not wanting to make jokes about the singer anymore. With tremendous empathy, Ferguson talks the audience through his state of mind as he considers making fun of someone during a struggle. He does so with heart and humor as he invokes his own journey with sobriety. The host delivers it all with complete honesty, proving once again that he’s an underrated part of late night history.

#4: Jimmy Talks About His Mom
“The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” (2014-)

Jimmy Fallon is usually all smiles and laughs during his “Tonight Show” broadcasts. This moment captures his more serious side, holding back tears as he eulogizes his mother. He shares fond memories of her that include a heartbreaking way he would squeeze his mom’s hand. Letting the audience into his personal life, Fallon wears sadness on his face as he describes his grief. The heartfelt tribute continues with thoughtful messages to the people around him. It might not be the way we’re used to seeing him, but the presenter earns our respect for showing us how to honor our loved ones.

#3: Regina King & Jimmy Kimmel Share a Moment
“Jimmy Kimmel Live!” (2003-)

At the beginning of this interview, Jimmy Kimmel asks Regina King how she’s doing. It’s a simple question with a much deeper context. King had lost her son within the last 2 years of the appearance, prompting the TV personality to offer some support. She gives an honest answer that gives a glimpse into her grieving process. The actress watches Kimmel start to tear up, offering her hand as a sign of goodwill. It’s a genuine moment that you rarely see on any kind of late night program. Seeing these two share a few seconds together, they say so much about humanity without having to say much at all.

#2: Letterman Apologizes for Affair
“Late Show with David Letterman” (1993-2015)

David Letterman had one massive scandal related to having affairs with staffers. Someone tried to blackmail him about it, but the host decided to reveal the information instead. This 2009 moment comes as one of the most honest and awkward of his entire tenure on the “Late Show.” Letterman is very direct about his actions and doesn’t try to excuse them. By the end, the TV personality thanks law enforcement and withholds additional details to protect his family. The host doesn’t mince words about the saga and its implications for his career. By being open about the entire event, the comedian likely helped his reputation.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

Conan’s Farewell Address, “The Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien” (2009-10)
Rather Than Being Negative, O’Brien Finds the Hope in His “Tonight Show” Departure

Seth Meyers’ Wife Gives Birth, “Late Night with Seth Meyers” (2014-)
An Embarrassing & Endearing Story about a Childbirth in an Apartment Lobby

Joy Did Not Miss Meghan, “The View” (1997-)
The Feuding Co-Hosts Remind Everyone That They’re True Television Rivals

Fallon Finds Out Kidman Liked Him, “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” (2014-)
The Comedian Looks Shocked after Learning He Missed a Chance with the Acclaimed Actress

#1: Jimmy Kimmel Talks About His Son
“Jimmy Kimmel Live!” (2003-)

Instead of a typical monologue, Jimmy Kimmel wears his emotions on his sleeve here. He tells the harrowing story of his son Billy’s birth and heart condition. It’s clear that the host is on the edge of losing it at several points. Struggling to maintain his composure, Kimmel is overcome by a mix of genuine concern, love, and thankfulness. He also spotlights the work of the amazing medical staff that saved his kid. It’s a commendable speech that’s both personal and universal. By the end, the comedian makes a compelling case for changes to the US healthcare system. It’s among the most heart wrenching moments in recent talk show history.

Did we forget another candid moment from talk show history? Let us know in the comments below.