The Tonight Show with Jay Leno Season 11 Episode 66 Pete Sampras, Maggie Gyllenhall, Uncle Kracker
- September 24, 2002
Pete Sampras, the legendary tennis champion, graces The Tonight Show with Jay Leno in season 11 episode 66, alongside actress Maggie Gyllenhall and musician Uncle Kracker. As usual, Jay kicks off the night with his monologue that’s filled with witty one-liners and topical jokes.
The first guest to join Jay on the couch is Pete Sampras. The tennis player retired from the sport over 10 years ago, but he still captivates audiences with his stories of winning Grand Slams and facing off against rivals like Andre Agassi. Sampras shares his insights on the current state of tennis, praising icons like Serena Williams and Roger Federer.
Up next is Maggie Gyllenhall. The actress has been in the industry for over two decades and has starred in acclaimed films like The Dark Knight and Secretary. Gyllenhall opens up to Jay about her new project, a miniseries called The Honourable Woman, in which she plays the lead character Nessa Stein. The show revolves around a woman who inherits her father’s arms business and tries to use it to promote peace in the Middle East. Gyllenhall talks about the challenges of playing such a complex character and working on a set with other notable actors like Stephen Rea.
Finally, Uncle Kracker rounds out the guest list. The musician, whose real name is Matthew Shafer, rose to fame in the early 2000s with hits like "Follow Me" and "Drift Away." He talks to Jay about his new album, Midnight Special, which blends rock, country, and hip-hop sounds. Uncle Kracker performs his latest single, "Nobody's Sad on a Saturday Night," for the lively studio audience.
Throughout the episode, Jay engages with his guests and showcases his signature brand of humor that has kept audiences tuned in for over a decade. The show also features the popular segment "Headlines," where Jay highlights humorous newspaper articles and advertisements. The band, led by Kevin Eubanks, provides musical accompaniment throughout the night.
Overall, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno season 11 episode 66 features an entertaining mix of guests and lively conversation that’s sure to please audiences. From Pete Sampras' sports insights to Maggie Gyllenhall's acting prowess to Uncle Kracker's musical talents, there’s something for everyone in this must-see episode.