US talk show host Jimmy Fallon has reportedly apologised to staff members after an investigation by Rolling Stone claims he's responsible for a toxic workplace on his show.
Several former staff members spoke to the publication saying The Tonight Show star was responsible for the decline in their mental health while working on the show.
The report said 14 ex-staff members and two current employees were in a "constant state of fear" due to a chaotic staff atmosphere and the allegedly unpredictable behaviour of Fallon.
"Nobody told Jimmy, 'No.' Everybody walked on eggshells, especially showrunners," a former employee claimed.
"You never knew which Jimmy we were going to get and when he was going to throw a hissy fit. Look how many showrunners went so quickly. We know they didn't last long," one was quoted as saying.
"People wouldn't joke around in the office and they wouldn't stand around and talk to each other. It was very much like, focus on whatever it is that you have to do because Jimmy's in a bad mood, and if he sees that, he might fly off.
"Four other employees say they are in therapy because of their experiences," Rolling Stone claimed.
Variety magazine said Fallon addressed staff via a Zoom call on Thursday (local time).
"It's embarrassing and I feel so bad. Sorry if I embarrassed you and your family and friends," he reportedly said.
"I feel so bad I can't even tell you. I want this show to be fun, it should be inclusive for everybody, it should be funny, it should be the best show, the best people."
There has been no official comment from Fallon on the claims.
In July 2020, Ellen DeGeneres was forced to address multiple allegations of workplace misconduct on her talkshow.
"On day one of our show, I told everyone in our first meeting that The Ellen DeGeneres Show would be a place of happiness - no one would ever raise their voice, and everyone would be treated with respect," she wrote at the time.
"Obviously, something changed and I am disappointed to learn that this has not been the case.
"For that, I am sorry. Anyone who knows me knows it's the opposite of what I believe and what I hoped for our show."
