The internet is obsessed with Sam Rockwell's smooth-as-hell Tonight Show dance entrances

Sam Rockwell is one of those rare actors who can do it all—act, charm, and, as the internet has rediscovered, dance. Much like Christopher Walken’s iconic moves we wrote about on Upworthy, Rockwell’s dancing feels like a surprising—and incredibly satisfying—skill that elevates him to a whole new level of cool. A new viral compilation of Rockwell’s entrances on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon showcases his habit of turning every stage walk into a full-blown performance.

Whether he’s twirling a cane in a sly nod to Gene Wilder’s Willy Wonka or busting out some smooth footwork, Rockwell proves that dancing isn’t just a skill—it’s a personality trait. As one Reddit commenter gushed, “You can’t NOT love Sam Rockwell,” while another joked, “The man ROCKS well.”

Other thoughts on Rockwell’s moves:

• “He’s mostly Lindy hopping. Search for Lindy hop dancing and you’ll see most of his moves.”
• “He’s just… smooth. Very, very smooth. Clearly, the guy has a serious dance background.”
• “At least Fallon got out there so we could see how much better Sam is than him.”

While Fallon mostly plays the supportive sidekick in these moments, it’s worth noting that he once went toe-to-toe with Rockwell in a 2013 improv dance battle on Late Night. The two pulled from a “Velvety Dance Bag” of absurd moves, like “The Sassy Lasso” and “The I Just Tripped But I’m Playing It Off Like I Didn’t.” Fallon brought the comedy, but Rockwell’s skill and charisma stole the show.

Rockwell’s dance moves aren’t just for talk shows, though. From his role as Bob Fosse in Fosse/Verdon to his countless on-screen dance moments, he’s made movement part of his signature style. As one commenter pointed out, “He was cast as Fosse, ferchrissakes!”

Fans also highlighted how Rockwell’s dancing reflects his joy and playfulness. “He just loves to dance,” one person wrote. “And it’s infectious. You can’t help but smile watching him.” Another added, “It’s not even about how good he is—he’s just having fun, and that’s what makes it so cool.”

Sam Rockwell’s entrances—and his effortless dancing—are a bit surprising yet very fun. Whether it’s an improvised routine or a nod to Hollywood legends, Rockwell’s moves have a charm that’s impossible not to enjoy.