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Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Slammed as “Circus” After Protest Disruptions and Bizarre Host Behavior
The 98th annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade was marred by interruptions from pro-Palestinian protesters and bizarre behavior from hosts Jimmy Fallon and Al Roker, leaving viewers unimpressed. The event was disrupted by a protest for the second year in a row, resulting in multiple arrests by the New York Police Department.
The poor weather, with rain and chilly temperatures, also led to issues with balloons and floats, and technical problems caused awkward pauses during live performances. Despite the challenges, Fallon, the host of The Tonight Show, wore sunglasses as he rode on one of the iconic floats, a bizarre choice that left viewers critical.
“Jimmy Fallon wearing sunglasses in the rain is the most Jimmy Fallon that Jimmy can Fallon,” said one viewer. “That is taking the circus to a whole new level,” added another.
Roker, 70, was criticized for struggles with his microphone, causing many to joke about his lack of communication skills. “Al Roker has been on TV my entire life and still can’t talk into a microphone lmao,” wrote one viewer. “How is it that Al Roker has been doing this parade for 79 years and doesn’t know how to use a microphone?” asked another.
The event featured a star-studded lineup of performers, including Jennifer Hudson, Ariana Madix, and Idina Menzel. However, many viewers felt that the broadcast focused too much on interviews and performances, and not enough on the parades and floats. “The #MacysParade should be showing: the balloons, the marching bands, and the Rockettes,” said one viewer. “It has been nonstop Broadway performances, why?? You see a balloon for 10 seconds before commercial breaks. Make the Macys Thanksgiving Day Parade Great Again,” added another.
The parade featured 34 floats and 22 massive balloons, including a Minnie Mouse balloon for the first time. However, the event’s issues and lack of focus on the parade itself left many viewers unimpressed.
