Jim Norton, DL Hughley to join cast of new Leno show

Can Jay Leno’s new primetime comedy/talk show rescue NBC from ruin? Who knows. But one thing is certain: comedy will be the priority, with a slightly diminished focus on the talk.

NBC has announced that The Jay Leno Show, set to air at 10PM 5 days a week, will feature a cast of regularly featured men/women on the street. D.L. Hughley, Mikey Day, Rachael Harris, Jim Norton, The Dan Band have been announced as comedy correspondents, and NBC Nightly News’ Brian Williams will partake in news-based comedy segments.

Guests will be interviewed at the desk a la The Tonight Show, but the format will be shifted around so that there is a greater emphasis on comedy.

“There will be something for everyone. Hopefully it will play across the board,” Leno told critics at a recent industry event. “It won’t be talk show and it won’t be a variety show with wigs and hats on.”

NBC hopes that increased laughs and reduced costs will do the trick against competing networks’ 10 pm dramas. There’s only one question: if someone else does it, is it still “Jay Walking?” The show premiers Sept. 14.