The Tonight Show with Jay Leno

[Kelly]

The Tonight Show with Jay Leno follows what is consider the standard six-segment, late-night talk show format:


1. Open with a topical monologue. Current host Leno stretches this for up to 10 minutes
2. Follow with banter and a comedy bit from behind the talk show host’s desk or a sketch
3. First guest interview
4. Comedy sketch
5. Second guest
6. Musical or comedic final act

Host Jay Leno fought hard to get the hosting gig after Johnny Carson announced his eventual retirement in 1992. Most thought the gig would go to Late Night host David Letterman – including Letterman. Much of the soap opera-like behind-the-scenes history of the transition is told in the best-selling The Late Shift by Bill Carter.