Jay Leno Makes It Official – He’s Leaving NBC’s Tonight Show

The rumor finally comes true.  In a joint statement through NBC, Jay Leno has announced he's leaving NBC's "The Tonight Show."  And as rumored, Jimmy Fallon will be his replacement.  Click for more details and dates.

Hard to believe but Leno has been the host of The Tonight Show for 22 years, replacing the legendary, Johnny Carson in May of 1992.  Leno will exit the show in February of 2014.   Both offered the usual message to ABC.

"Congratulations Jimmy," said Leno in the statement.  "I hope you're as lucky as me and hold on to the job until you're the old guy. If you need me, I'll be at the garage.”  Said Fallon, "“I’m really excited to host a show that starts today instead of tomorrow.”

When Jimmy Fallon assumes the hosting duties, the show will relocate to New York, broadcasting from NBC's headquarters at 30 Rockefeller Plaza.  Now the question becomes, who will replace Fallon?  According to the Hollywood Reporter, Saturday Night Live's Seth Meyers is the leading candidate.

SOURCE: ABC