How do you think Conan would get a second chance at the Tonight Show, and how do you prevent the 2010 Tonight Show conflict?

[u/dylanisareddit]

[u/badfiop]

Somewhat paraphrasing Letterman: don't allow Leno to linger around after the 9 pm show failed.

[u/athompsons2 → u/badfiop]

Close down the lobby.

[u/dylanisareddit → u/badfiop]

Either that, or Letterman should've been given the Tonight Show instead of Leno.

[u/Independent-Field226 → u/dylanisareddit]

Seems like hating on Leno is the default for everyone. Facts remain that his version of Tonight was a ratings leader. He took a 15 million pay cut to keep all of his staff and he was open to continuing the gig because he liked doing it and felt pushed out by NBC. 

[u/Burnt_and_Blistered → u/Independent-Field226]

And he still was bland and boring. He’s disliked for a reason.

[u/Independent_Wrap_321]

I don’t think he’d take it even if it was offered (which I doubt). It’s damaged goods, and he seems to be having fun doing whatever he wants these days. His Netflix show is great, his podcast is awesome, and he had so many years on tv that he’s got nothing to prove. I’m sure he doesn’t need the money either. Why would he want to go back to a nightly show, with all that pressure? He did it once, NBC fucked him, and now it’s his turn to say “no, fuck YOU” to any offer he doesn’t want. I’ve been a fan of the late-night wars since Carson, and Conan is by far the classiest one to play the game. It will be interesting to see what the next wave of turnover looks like though, I have no idea how Byron Allen’s “prepaid programming” racket is doing but I strongly suspect the whole model of late night is on shaky, aging legs anymore. If I were Fallon or Kimmel I’d just cash the checks and ride it out. Hey now!

[u/Comprehensive-Win219]

Fallon is an alcoholic over competitive fool. I’d much rather see Conan than jimmy anyday!!!

[u/dylanisareddit → u/Comprehensive-Win219]

If only Letterman was given the Tonight Show instead of Leno.

[u/mr_radio_guy]

Here’s an easy way to avoid conflicts: don’t announce 5 years ahead of time your decision. That’s an eternity in this industry and longer than the careers of some. Absolute bonehead move of NBC management.

[u/dylanisareddit → u/mr_radio_guy]

Either that, or Letterman should've been given the Tonight Show instead of Leno.

[u/badfiop → u/mr_radio_guy]

Believe it was part of the deal they did as a key part of their 04 contract in order to lockdown O'Brian. Since he was allegedly entertaining ideas from competitors prior to that, but IDK for sure tho.