It’s Official: Fallon Will Succeed Leno as Tonight Show Host

Longtime NBC host will step down next spring

After weeks of poorly contained leaks and a public airing of grievances, NBC on Wednesday made it official, confirming that Jimmy Fallon will succeed Jay Leno as the host of The Tonight Show.

Leno will part ways with NBC in spring 2014, a few months before his current contract with the network expires. A loyal soldier, Leno last fall agreed to a 50 percent pay cut, reducing his annual salary to $15 million. The voluntary reduction in his take-home pay helped save dozens of Tonight Show jobs.

AW+

WORK SMARTER - LEARN, GROW AND BE INSPIRED.

Spring Special

Save 30% Off an ADWEEK Subscription Today!

View Your Options

Already a member? Sign in