The New York Post is reporting that multiple sources say that Comcast's NBC division is considering moving Howard Stern into Jimmy Fallon's Late Night spot if Fallon takes over the Tonight Show from Jay Leno next year. Media speculation centers on rumors that Comcast has already decided Leno's contract will not be renewed in 2014.
Comcast is denying the rumor as "categorically untrue," but recent Nielson ratings show Fallon could increase The Tonight Show's numbers in key demographics. Leno's ratings remain strong, but ABC's Jimmy Kimmel Live has been siphoning away the coveted 18-49 audience.
Comcast believes that Fallon will help draw back some of that demographic.
According to the Post, Stern is the top contender for Fallon's current job despite the fact he will turn 60 by the time of his debut. Stern would be the oldest person ever to host the Late Night franchise. David Letterman was only 34 when he took over, and Fallon was barely 30 when he ascended to the post. Late Night traditionally draws to a younger and edgier crowd
Stern has been made several attempts at a potential late night run. In 1987, he was in line to replace Joan Rivers, a slot that eventually went to Arsenio Hall. In 1994, Stern launched the Howard Stern Production Company for original and joint production and development ventures but found no takers for a late-night syndicated program. In October of 2004, Stern announced the signing of a five-year $100 million contract with Sirius Satellite Radio, a medium where his raunchy humor is out of reach of the Federal Communications Commission. Stern still hosts his uncensored radio show on Sirius/ XM radio and currently is seen in primetime as a judge on America's Got Talent.
