A Discourse Analysis of Speech Acts and Politeness Strategies Used by Jimmy Fallon in “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon”

Abstract

Abstract

This study was conducted to examine how Jimmy Fallon uses speech acts and politeness strategies in his interactions with guest stars on "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon." The main focus of this study is how language is used not only to convey information, but also to build social relationships and maintain the comfort of the interlocutor. The method used is a qualitative descriptive approach with discourse analysis techniques. Data was obtained from two interview videos on the show's official YouTube channel, namely the episodes with Angelina Jolie and Justin Timberlake. These two episodes were selected because they represent two different types of social relationships, namely formal and casual, allowing for a comparison of the language strategies used by the host in different contexts. Data were analyzed using Austin and Searle's speech act theory and Brown and Levinson's politeness theory. The results of this study indicate that Jimmy Fallon consistently uses expressive and directive speech acts to convey praise, guide the conversation, or lighten the mood with his interlocutors. Additionally, positive politeness strategies are most frequently used, particularly to build rapport and show respect for guests. These findings show that language plays a crucial role in creating effective, polite, and entertaining interactions in the context of entertainment media. These results also show that Jimmy Fallon can change the way he speaks based on how close he is to his guests.  He uses supportive and empathetic expressions, such as giving subtle compliments and ensuring that his conversation partner is comfortable, in episodes with Angelina Jolie, which tend to be more formal.  Meanwhile, Fallon is more free to use comedy, jokes, and a relax. Direct speaking style in episodes with Justin Timberlake, his close friend.  This supports the idea that a person's social context and their relationships with others greatly influence how they speak.  Therefore, it is hoped that the findings of this study will enhance our understanding of language use strategies in entertainment media as well as how language shapes social image and dynamics in public communication.

Key words: discourse analysis, speech acts, politeness strategies, talk show, media communication.