Jimmy Fallon got a taste of true Highland hospitality when Scottish soldiers invited the US TV star to a special dinner during his visit to Balmoral.
Jimmy Fallon was treated to a Scottish evening while on holiday in Royal Deeside(Image: 5 Scots/PA Wire )
US TV star Jimmy Fallon enjoyed a memorable taste of Highland hospitality after being invited to dine with Scottish soldiers during his holiday in Royal Deeside.
A chance encounter led to the Tonight Show host joining the King’s royal guards for a special dinner in their officers’ mess at Victoria Barracks in Ballater, Aberdeenshire. The actor and comedian had been touring the grounds of Balmoral Castle earlier in the week when one of the soldiers recognised him and extended an invitation to the barracks.
Upon his arrival, Jimmy was welcomed by soldiers from the 5th Battalion, The Royal Regiment of Scotland (5 Scots), complete with kilts and bagpipes. He also signed the visitor’s book – a longstanding tradition for guests of honour at the barracks.
The evening began with a formal welcome from the commanding officer, second-in-command and company sergeant major, followed by a viewing of a small ceremonial guard rehearsing for the King’s departure.
Before dinner, Jimmy was shown some of the soldiers’ military equipment. The chat show host was then treated to a starter with a twist, as he tucked into a venison Scotch egg rather than the usual sausage.
He also listened to a brief talk by Lieutenant Samoilys about the regimental colours, learning more about the battalion’s history and traditions.
Just by chance Jimmy was recognised by one of soldiers who invited him round that evening(Image: 5 Scots/PA Wire)
Reflecting on, Jimmy’s unexpected visit, Major Thomas Blair, commanding officer of 5 Scots, shared his thoughts on the memorable encounter.
“What started as a chance meeting near Balmoral turned into a brilliant evening,” he said.
Major Blair added: “It’s not every day you get to meet a Hollywood A-lister, and we were delighted to welcome him to Scotland – in true Scots style.”
Photos shared by the regiment show the American TV star dressed in a kilt, seated around the dinner table in the officers’ mess, and adding his signature to the visitor’s book.
Within 5 Scots, Balaklava Company carries out ceremonial duties across Scotland and forms part of the royal guard at Balmoral, where they also welcomed the King earlier this year for his summer residency.
The US star marked the occasion by signing the visitors book(Image: 5 Scots/PA Wire )
Jimmy, who rose to fame on Saturday Night Live before becoming the host of The Tonight Show, continues to be one of America’s most recognisable TV personalities.
Saturday Night Live creator Lorne Michaels is reportedly developing a UK version of the show for Sky, and Jimmy recently offered some advice to up-and-coming comedians who might appear on it.
Speaking to Deadline, he said: “Don’t think about the next move, or if you are going to be a movie star from this.”
“Don’t treat it as a launching pad, treat it as the end game.”
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