With Conan O'Brien set to take over the "Tonight Show" slot next year, it's left NBC execs trying to find a way to keep Leno from heading over to a rival network while also trying to figure out how to downsize on their 22 hours of primetime space. The solution? Give Jay Leno the 10pm slot.
"This is a win-win for everyone," said Shari Anne Brill, a programming expert and executive with New York-based ad buyer Carat. "Why would you want to lose a talent like Leno to the other guys? Why would you want to give ABC an opportunity like that?"
The new show doesn't appear to have a name yet and execs are still trying to figure out if it will be the same talk show style format or more of a variety show (you know, because those have been doing so well lately..*cough* Rosie). Either way, NBC is excited because no matter what, it will cost them a whole lot less than a new drama series.
There's also the hope that an earlier time slot will allow a new set of viewers, those early-to-bed folks, to watch the show.
Of course, this brings up new questions like what NBC series are going to be cut or make the cut for the shortened prime time schedule?
So, will you watch Leno in his new slot?
source: The Hollywood Reporter
I don't watch him now, I sure won't watch him at 10 every night. More likely, it will just make me mad at NBC for shows that will be cut to make room for Jay. Horrible idea, IMO.