Jimmy Fallon and DJ Khaled are teaming up for the “Cardigan Classic” on NBC, a four-hole match that will air on the Tonight Show’s usual slot. Paddy Reilly’s, a bar in New York, will host a watch party for the event. The bar is a popular hangout for celebrities, including Hozier and Harry Kane, and now Jimmy Fallon will be joining the ranks of celebrity visitors. Despite being 10 miles away from the nearest golf course, Fallon, who admits to being a “consistently bad” golfer, will take on DJ Khaled in this celebrity match.
The idea for the Cardigan Classic came about on a whim, inspired by the success of other celebrity golf matches. Fallon reached out to DJ Khaled, who quickly agreed to participate, leading to NBC lending its production teams for the event. The match will bring golf to a wider audience, with a focus on entertainment and fun rather than competition. The event is named after the red cardigan given to the winner, in lieu of a green jacket, adding a unique twist to traditional golf tournaments.
The explosion of golf during the pandemic years has led to a surge in the sport’s popularity in popular culture. The Cardigan Classic is a reflection of this trend, blending golf with entertainment for a unique viewing experience. Fallon describes the event as reminiscent of Wide World of Sports, offering humor and entertainment in a condensed format. The match will take place on four holes and air late at night, creating a special viewing experience for fans.
Fallon suggests hosting a watch party at Paddy Reilly’s for the Cardigan Classic, encouraging viewers to wear cardigans for special drink deals. This highlights the communal aspect of watching sports, with friends gathered together to enjoy the entertainment. Fallon’s enthusiasm for the event adds to the excitement surrounding the Cardigan Classic, bringing a new perspective to celebrity golf matches. The mix of comedy, entertainment, and friendly competition sets this event apart from traditional golf tournaments.
Overall, the Cardigan Classic represents a shift in how golf is presented on television, focusing on entertainment value and engaging a broader audience. By combining celebrities like Jimmy Fallon and DJ Khaled with the sport of golf, the event offers a fresh take on traditional tournaments. The match’s casual and fun atmosphere makes it accessible to viewers of all levels of interest in golf, showcasing the sport in a new light. With the support of NBC and the involvement of popular celebrities, the Cardigan Classic is set to be a memorable event for both golf enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.
