Christina Ricci has publicly criticized Jimmy Fallon for hosting Conor McGregor on The Tonight Show, following the UFC fighter's civil rape conviction. The actress reposted a scathing statement on her Instagram story, amplifying outrage over Fallon's decision to give McGregor a platform.
Fallon's interview with McGregor sparks backlash
Last week, Fallon welcomed McGregor to his late-night show, where the two discussed McGregor's return to UFC and his nickname 'Notorious'. The interview drew immediate criticism, as McGregor was found liable in November 2024 for raping Nikita Hand at a Dublin hotel in 2018. Hand was awarded €248,603 (£206,000) in damages. Medical testimony revealed she suffered extensive bruising and required forceps to remove a tampon that had been 'wedged inside' during the assault.
Viewers also noted that Fallon did not promote the interview on social media, accusing him of trying to 'hide' it. The talk show host has not publicly addressed the controversy.
Ricci joins the chorus of condemnation
Ricci, who appeared on Fallon's show in February 2025 to promote Wednesday and Yellowjackets, reposted a statement from user mushroom.marauder that blasted Fallon. The post read: 'Conor McGregor raped a woman so brutally that the EMT who saw her commented on the severity of her bruising. She also had to have the tampon she was using when he raped her surgically removed, as it had been shoved so far inside her. Why the absolute f**k is this piece of human garbage being given a platform on Jimmy Fallon’s show? Shame on you Jimmy.'
Ricci's repost echoed prior criticism labeling Fallon 'spineless' and 'pathetic'. During the interview, Fallon called McGregor 'my man' and 'one of the best MMA fighters in the world', and reminisced about going out drinking together, saying 'We’ll have to do it again!'
Hand's civil case victory and public support
During the sexual assault court case, hundreds protested in solidarity with Hand against violence against women. After her civil case succeeded, Hand said: 'I want to thank all the women and men out there who have supported me throughout this trial. For every person who reached out to me – a card, a letter, an email, everything – it hasn’t gone unnoticed. Thank you, I really appreciate it so much.'
McGregor's career has remained stable despite the verdict, and he continues to receive high-profile media invitations, sparking ongoing debate about accountability and platforming.
