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Tag: Jeff Zucker

  • Jay Leno Shouldn’t Be Out of a Job Too Long

    What will Jay Leno do next? That is the question many people are asking as the popular host of NBC’s long-running The Tonight Show steps down in February. According to the Hollywood Reporter, Leno may not be out of a gig very long.

    As Jimmy Fallon gets ready to take Jay’s spot, potential suitors are reportedly already lining up for a chance to snag Leno, who is known around the industry as a man who likes to work. One very unlikely network may be casting a line to catch the 64 year old host. Internet rumors are running amok that Jeff Zucker, President of CNN, is allegedly interested in bringing the funny man over to host an interview show in order to bring some life into the wavering network. Piers Morgan’s rating haven’t been great, so CNN may be going for the likeability factor that Leno brings to the table.

    CNN is not the only network interested in Leno. The comedian is wanted by at least ten other media outlets. One apparent front-runner may be Leno’s current home at NBC. The network’s entertainment chairman Bob Greenblatt wants the host to stay put. “Nothing would make me happier than to find ways to keep him involved with this network. That’s really up to him.”

    Leno’s contract with NBC expires on February 6, 2014. He consistently beats his late night rivals David Letterman and Jimmy Kimmel in the ratings. So, Fallon will have big shoes to fill and NBC is crossing its fingers that they aren’t replacing Leno too soon. Stay tuned, the late night wars should be heating back up again next month.

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  • Jay Leno: What’s Next for the ‘Tonight Show’ Host?

    Jay Leno will soon hand over the Tonight Show reins to Jimmy Fallon. What will the late night talk show icon and comedian do once his long-running stint is finally done? Recent reports say CNN’s Jeff Zucker might have his sights set on the popular late night host. Zucker recently visited Jay in Burbank, entertaining the idea of a late night show on CNN.

    In addition to Jeff Zucker, Jay Leno is being pursued by at least 10 additional media outlets. Those options include Core Media Group (they produce American Idol), Tribune, and former NBC chief Jeff Gaspin. Even NBC entertainment chairman Bob Greenblatt is making a very strong pitch to keep Jay right at home on NBC in a new unmentioned capacity.

    “Nothing would make me happier than to find ways to keep him involved with this network. That’s really up to him,” Greenblatt says.

    Ken Ziffren is Jay’s only representation. Leno and Ziffren both insist no decision will be made until after he bids adieu to The Tonight Show. That happens on February 6th.

    Jay Leno still does an average of 100 live stand-up comedy gigs per year. Might he want to return to a career that’s solely on the road? That doesn’t seem likely at 63. What do you see Jay doing when he leaves The Tonight Show? And while Jimmy Fallon will no doubt make the perfect host for taking over the show, it’s almost unfathomable to think of late night TV without Jay Leno somewhere in the mix.

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  • New CNN President Named: Jeff Zucker

    New CNN President Named: Jeff Zucker

    CNN Worldwide today announced that Jeff Zucker will take the reigns of the global media company as its CEO. Starting in January 2013, Zucker will oversee the 23 news and information businesses under the CNN brand, including CNN International, CNN.com, and HLN.

    “I am thrilled to join the distinguished team of journalists across the worldwide platforms of CNN,” said Zucker. “The global reach and scale of the CNN brand is unparalleled in all of news. Outside of my family and the Miami Dolphins, there is nothing I am as passionate about as journalism. I spent the most rewarding years of my career as a journalist, and it’s where I look forward to spending many more. I am grateful to Phil Kent for this opportunity, and I’m excited to return to daily newsgathering and compelling storytelling in a place that values those above all else.”

    Zucker began his career as a researcher for NBC Sports, and was named executive producer of NBC’s Today show in 1992. From there, he rose through NBC to eventually become president and CEO of NBC Universal in 2007.

    Turner Broadcasting System CEO and Chairman Phil Kent announced Zucker’s appointment.

    “Jeff’s experience as a news executive is unmatched for its breadth and success,” said Kent. “He built and sustained the number-one brand in morning news, and under his watch NBC’s signature news programming set a standard for quality and professionalism. As a programmer, a brand-builder and a leader, he will bring energy and new thinking to CNN. I couldn’t be happier to welcome him or more excited about what he’ll accomplish here.”

    (Photo credit: David Shankbone via Wikimedia Commons)