Jay Leno Reveals Plans for 10PM Show

Jay Leno is speaking out for today about plans for his new 10:00 p.m. show on NBC:

Here’s what you need to know:

10:30 – 11:00 P.M. is key!

“The second half is the tricky part,” he said. “We want to provide as strong a lead-in as we can.” He was referring to one big gamble NBC is taking: that with all its 10 p.m. dramas gone, Mr. Leno’s show will be strong enough to deliver good audiences to local newscasts at 11, as well as to NBC’s economically essential late-night lineup.

Fighting Over Guests?

Another potential trouble spot may be guest bookings. Both Mr. Leno’s new show and Mr. O’Brien’s “Tonight Show” will be based in Hollywood. Mr. Leno said that no pressure would ever be applied to guests not to do any other shows. But he said, “I think we will have an advantage saying to press agents, ‘It’s prime time; reach a wider audience.’ ”

Plus: 10 P.M. daily sealed the deal for Leno

When Mr. Zucker finally offered 10 p.m. weeknights, “things moved pretty quickly,” Mr. Leno said. “Five years ago this wouldn’t have been a good idea, but more people — and younger people — are going to bed at 11 o’clock because they carpool or they have to get up at 6.”