Jay Leno: I'm Not Here To Save NBC

PASADENA, Calif. — Jay Leno says comedy will rule on his new daily prime-time series and he'll put stars in cars instead on a couch.

Leno, looking relaxed and trim – the result of running four miles a day, he said – told the Television Critics Association on Wednesday that fall's "The Jay Leno Show" will feature some elements from his old home, "Tonight," but in a far different mix.

For starters, there likely won't be the standard-issue talk show desk. Musical acts will be featured only about twice a week because, Leno said, they play better in the studio than on TV. NBC anchor Brian Williams will be filing stories that didn't make the cut on "Nightly News."

A race track is being built near NBC's Burbank studio for a regular "green car challenge" that will allow celebrities to race electric vehicles, said Leno, an automotive buff with an extensive collection. Other stunts may await guests called on to do more than talk.

Racing fan Tom Cruise called to ask if they'd have a chance to practice – and was told no, Leno said.

The show itself will be fast-moving and will make sure there are laughs heading into the local news on NBC stations. They count on a strong lead-in to sustain their lucrative newscasts.

An opening monologue and popular "Tonight" fixtures including funny headlines and "Jaywalking," in which Leno gives pop quizzes to pedestrians, will be part of the new show. Comedians including D.L. Hughley will do field reports, although Leno said his program won't have a "Daily Show" flavor.

Leno and new "Tonight" host Conan O'Brien will compete for guests, Leno said. But he added that they're pals and it would remain a friendly rivalry.

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Leno was asked if he's fretting over being expected to rescue fourth-place NBC.

"I'm not counted on to save the network. The network's on its own," he said.

Leno described himself as getting complacent after 17 years on "Tonight" and said he's excited about the challenge of creating a new show that represents a major change in network programming, taking a 10 p.m. EDT slot typically filled by hourlong drama series.

"If we go down in flames, I'll be laughing," Leno said.

He was asked the source of his breezy confidence.

"I'm rich now," he replied, smiling.

___

http://www.nbc.com

Comments

[jennylynn]

NBC is trying everything to get their ratings up.

[Tom Payned]

No, Jay, you aren't there to save NBC, you are driving hundreds of people employed on shows that were in the 10:00 time slot out of jobs.

We're not just talking about actors, or writers, directors, and producers, we're talking about crew members, assistants, painters, set builders, wardrobe staff, camera men, and countless others.

It's sad that many decent shows are not returning this year because NBC decided to glut their broadcast shows by a third. And, have introduced even more of those inane "reality/non scripted" shows.

It's why networks like USA, TNT, & A&E are starting to be nominated for more Emmey's, and despite less discretionary spending, viewers are paying for HBO & Showtime for original series programing.

I don't wish Jay any ill will, I know he's been very generous with his time for a number of good causes.

But this move will affect so many peoples' livelihood. And it's not like Jay needs the money.

[raprap373]

Oh Wow. Jay will be the greatest. Conan and Letterman (Howdy Duddy Lookalike)
cannot hold a candle to Leno.

He has a few things that the above two lack , he is honest, up front and he dont give a care.

I wish you Good Luck on your new show. Actually you do not need Luck, You have all

your fans that will follow you where ever you go.

you also look great. :)

[GOPApostate]

Ugh, use the English language please.

[josephbua]

That's a good thing, Jay, because you won't.

But they are setting you up as fall guy. How's that feel?

[Harpseal60]

I Love Leno. I am not crazy about Conan or Letterman. Conan tries way too hard to be funny which is irritating and Letterman is too grumpy and sarcastic all the time which I don't think is funny either. Leno will be a breathe of fresh air!

[yankees]

Hey Jay, just be yourself and the show will be great. Don't worry about NBC as GE will take care of them.

[isaidit]

If you turn out to be wrong, will you quit making comments with predictions?

[Dustee]

I'll be glad to see Jay back again. I wonder if Kevin and the band will be returning?

[isaidit]

I'm banking on Eubanks and his crew, too.

[chevlikis]

he'd really selfish, should have had a family instead of wasting soooooo much
on metal objects with wheels

funny on sliding scale of "C"

[isaidit]

I know the cure for having the urge to decide the personal lives of others.

[OhComeOnNow]

"I'm Not Here To Save NBC"


That's a fact - NBC just made sure they are in perpetual last place for that time slot. No dramas, just dreck going forward in that time slot.

[catbite]

I miss Jay. I think Conan is not funny. Put him right next to Letterman as the 2nd most not funny person on tv.

I guess the person who decided to replace Jay Leno is the same person who decided that the formula for Coca Cola needed to be re-vamped. Duh.

[isaidit]

That would be Jay Leno.

[RandyJones]

Nothing can save NBC.

[robjh1]

Someone or something has to save their butts. Conan sure isn't helping. And all the hype. What a joke.

"and we are not saved..."

[ReelBusy]

Friends, Romans and Countrymen,
Jay Leno comes not to praise NBC but to bury it.

[happycat]

I love your avatar. I could just stare at Cary all day long.

[Hagrid]

I will never tune in to watch Leno.... such a d-bag!

[happycat]

I completely agree with you. I cannot stand the guy either.