The Los Angeles Times is reporting that Fox Broadcasting is in discussions with Conan O'Brien and his team to bring the comedian back to late night television. Reportedly, Fox would like to seal the deal by May 17, when the network is slated to unveil its upcoming fall programming.
According to the report in the Los Angeles Times, a few key issues are currently in discussion, including budget and airing schedule.
From the Los Angeles Times: "Fox, however, is unwilling to spend the money that NBC had been paying to support "The Tonight Show" with O'Brien. NBC spent close to $90 million a year to produce the show, which included O'Brien's salary of more than $12 million a year. Fox wants to spend less than $60 million a year for the show, said people close to the discussions."
"The major hurdle comes from Fox stations, which are obligated to air reruns at specific time periods, in some cases after the 10 p.m. news. That would mean forcing a proposed O'Brien show, at least initially, to air at different time periods: 11 p.m. in some markets, 11:30 -- or later -- in other cities."
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In the meantime, Conan O'Brien will headline a live comedy/music review that begins a two-month, 30-city tour on April 12th. The aptly titled "Legally Prohibited from Being Funny on Television" tour kicks off in Eugene, Oregon, and will take Conan and a cast that will include longtime sidekick Andy Richter and the former Tonight Show band to theaters in at least 20 states and two Canadian provinces.
"It was either a massive 30-city tour or start helping out around the house" says O'Brien.
American Express is sponsoring the tour and ticket prices will start at $39.50. It promises to be a night of music, comedy, hugging, and the occasional awkward silence.
More info on the tour can be found at www.TeamCoco.com
