Did NBC Lose Its Jay Leno Tonight Show Gamble?

Did NBC lose its Jay Leno Tonight Show gamble that lead to a highly publicized “divorce” with Conan O’Brien? Ratings show Leno is falling behind O’Brien’s numbers. A roundup is HERE.

Some of the fuss over late night ratings seemingly overlooks one fact. There is a massive shake up going on in viewers’ habits — particularly the habits of younger viewers. I’ve met several 20-somethings who say they don’t bother with television. They use Netflix, Hulu but seldom bother wtih television itself anymore. Just as Frank Sinatra really didn’t become unpopular but his audience died off, late night television is not what it was in the final part of the 20th century. Now the two key late night shows are dominated by highly experienced, comedic masters baby boomers — at a time when in many parts of the media you’re seeing a vital generational shift.