Reports of Jay Leno's cold feet notwithstanding, "Conan O'Brien will take over 'The Tonight Show' in 2009," NBC chief Jeff Zucker said yesterday. Reports that Leno was reconsidering retirement from the late-night throne sparked speculation that the network might keep the comedian onboard. Nope, said the exec, adding, "I'm hopeful that Jay will be with us."
"We are in those conversations now" to keep Leno in the fold, Zucker said. The deal to bring in O'Brien was made 3 years, ago, reports the AP. Leno marked his 15th year of hosting "The Tonight Show" last May. The comedian has commented neither on the rumors that he wants to stay nor on Zucker's remarks.