It is now certain that NBC is giving up on the so-called “Leno Experiment.” With multiple reports coming in on Thursday, it appears that NBC is working to move Leno back to late night. A definitive announcement has not been made since the network is still finalizing the details of the move.
Here’s a round-up of recent reports…
The New York Times:
The network has a plan in the works to restore Jay Leno to his old spot at 11:35 each weeknight for a half-hour, while pushing the man who replaced him, Conan O’Brien, to a starting time of 12:05 a.m. Mr. O’Brien would then have a full hour. More…
Broadcasting & Cable:
NBC is continuing its ongoing discussions about the plans for Jay Leno and the late-night lineup, and would like to come to a decision before its upcoming affiliates board meeting on January 21 in New York. More…
TMZ:
We’re told network execs have told Conan they will let him decide if he wants the midnight to 1:00 AM time slot. If he does, Leno’s show will only be a half hour. If Conan walks, Leno will get a full hour More…
The Wrap:
According to people familiar with the situation, NBC executives are worried that a significant number of local stations — perhaps up to a third — could start bailing on “The Jay Leno Show” as early as this spring. More…
Jay Leno on Thursday’s ‘Leno’:
“There is a rumor floating around that we were canceled… So far nobody’s has said anything to me. But Kev, if we did get canceled, it would give us time to maybe do some traveling. In fact, I understand that Fox is beautiful this time of year.” Video…