That's what the network's late-night head Rick Ludwin admitted to the TV Critics press tour about that infamous news release. Especially after just the new Tonight Showhost's first week on the air. "I think it was premature," Ludwin said. "We were very proud of the show... There were those who thought that Conan would not be broad-based enough... He far exceeded our expectations."
- Finke/LA Weekly: LATE-NIGHT TALK SHOW WARS
- Dave Tops 'Tonight Show' for 2 Straight Weeks; Demo Gap With Conan Shrinking
- Dave Posts Largest Eyeball Win Over 'Tonight' Since 2000; Conan's Demo Lead Fading
- Dave Beats Conan Again In Overnights; Craig Ferguson Beats Up On NBC Boast
- Conan Gives NBC Big Lead In Adult Demos
- David Letterman Tops Conan O'Brien In Last Night's Ratings
- NBC Edicts Already Killing Jay Leno Show By Favoring Conan
I’ve been a fan of Conan O’Brien for years. His brand of immature humor did sometimes did include too many fart jokes, but most of the time, he was funnier than Dave or Leno who can be SO DULL. Conan could be edgy and energetic whereas the grandfathers of late night droned on until even their diehard fans fell asleep in front of the TV.
No, Conan is not doing very well right now in Leno’s spot, but give him time to adjust. I’m confident he’ll fill his shoes.