Addressing the graduating class of UCLA sounds like a positive, prestigious gig for most celebs—so why are they having so much trouble lining up a speaker?

First, Hollywood heartthrob James Franco bailed at the last minute, claiming he had to be on the set of his next film for “pre-production.” Does that mean he has to stand around while they build the sets?

So a group of enterprising UCLA students set up a page on Facebook, hoping to lure new “The Tonight Show” host Conan O’Brien into subbing for Franco. Alas, Conan turned them down. He released this statement, as reported by TMZ, “I am honored to be asked but I am so busy launching ‘The Tonight Show’ there just is not enough time to give this speech the preparation it deserves. I wish everyone in the class of 2009 the best and I am honored that they thought of me.”

Spoilsport! Conan should go for it! It would be great PR for his new job, and might take the media’s focus off his disappointing ratings. Besides, he could always have his staff of writers craft a speech and read it off the teleprompter.

An era ends this evening, as Jay Leno hosts “The Tonight Show” for the last time.

There is bound to be some sadness on leaving the show after 17 years, and Leno told the AP, “Will I miss it? Yes, terribly. It’s the most wonderful job ever in show business.”

Leno’s final guest will be Conan O’Brien, who is taking over the reins at “The Tonight Show.” In the fall, Leno begins a primetime show airing five nights a week on NBC.

Leno’s 17-year reign gives him the second longest tenure hosting “The Tonight Show,” following the three decades of his predecessor, Johnny Carson.

Farewell and good luck, Jay—we’ll miss you.

Conan O’Brien and Andy Richter started filming for their June debut on “The Tonight Show” at the L.A. River in downtown Los Angeles, CA. Wonder if they caught anything? 

Now that Christmas is only a week away and folks are scrambling for the perfect gifts, news or updates on the WGA strike have subsided. The truth is the strike is still going on and talks between WGA and AMPTP have come to a standstill. This is definitely unfortunate news, as many shows have called off taping because of the strike. News today however paints a different picture in the late-night arena. Variety reported today that both Jay Leno and Conan O’Brien will be returning to their shows starting January 2. Jay Leno commented that the standstill in talks between the two parties assisted in his decision to bring back his show. David Letterman has yet to announce such a return. I’m very excited that Conan is coming back with new episodes in the new year, but I’m really saddened that the writers’ strike has lasted this long. Hopefully some sort of miracle take place in the next few days and talks resume. We’ll keep you posted on any progress.