Conan O'Brien takes over The Tonight Show

On my infrequent trips to the US, I used to enjoy Conan O'Brien's ridiculously silly late night chat show. In many ways, it was more of a sketch show vehicle for the former Simpsons writer, with guest interviews crammed in to keep down the costs.

We even went to see a taping of the show in 2007, and were very impressed at how tight it all was. Unlike most TV shows, where they record double the material they need and edit out the rubbishy bits, this was recorded as-live - even including pauses for the ad breaks.

Last night, he made the move to an earlier, higher-profile time slot, taking over from Jay Leno on the Tonight Show. From what I've seen so far, he's had to tone down the edgier comedy of his previous series (no masturbating bear here) but the broader material might just suit him. Check out the opening sketch for his first show below. A simple concept, tightly written, and with a great payoff. Nice work.

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