MSNBC mavens (I don’t know who, I was listening from the computer room) were discussing the “new” presentation of Jay Leno as a prime time host and the fact that, although Conan is taking over the much-sought-after “Tonight Show” spot, that it isn’t really the show that was because they are putting it on an hour earlier. They were saying that Conan appeals to a younger audience and giving the show an earlier start time might mean he has to “tone down” his shtick to appeal to “older” viewers, by which I am thinking, “they mean me.”

Well, yes, I never broke my leg getting to the TV to watch late night Conan, although I will prop my eyelids open any time to watch a good Bill Maher stand-up or Lewis Black, or Maher’s basically politically oriented talk show which is on every Friday night and is repeated throughout the week.

I am miffed that “toning down” as it is used, seems to mean, make it simpler, not as complex, more broad, not as sharp, not as far out, perhaps not as racy (although each generation thinks it has invented sex and innuendo). Well, all along I thought my taste was more sophisticated, not infantile, not thrilled by the cheap shot, and more literate. And if you want to appeal to the young people just keep pointing them to the reality shows and American Idol, and leave the commentary to us oldies. But what do I know? Yet, all you advertisers out there, I still buy stuff. Are any of you getting t-h-a-t message?

xx, Teal