Story perspectives

Jay Leno Says Podcasts Overtake Late-Night, Rogan Crowned Carson

6/20/2026

Summary

Jay Leno Declares

Former Tonight Show host Jay Leno told Deadline that podcasts have overtaken late-night television in the United States.
Leno blamed an excess of commercials for breaking the conversational flow and contributing to the decline.
Leno said most audiences no longer watch late-night programs and labeled Joe Rogan the new Johnny Carson.
Comedian John Oliver and Jon Stewart called Leno’s remarks “f---ing ridiculous,” rejecting his view of political comedy.

Summary

Jay Leno Streams

Leno said his “Jay Leno’s Garage” now streams for free on YouTube, letting him reach viewers without a network slot.
He noted CBS cancelled “The Late Show,” and called YouTube the world’s most popular TV channel that younger viewers tune to “Channel 682.”
He said he recently hosted former President Joe Biden on his YouTube show, showing political interviews are part of the new format.

1 of 2

Jay Leno Declares

Former Tonight Show host Jay Leno told Deadline that podcasts have overtaken late-night television in the United States.
Leno blamed an excess of commercials for breaking the conversational flow and contributing to the decline.
Leno said most audiences no longer watch late-night programs and labeled Joe Rogan the new Johnny Carson.
Comedian John Oliver and Jon Stewart called Leno’s remarks “f---ing ridiculous,” rejecting his view of political comedy.

1 / 2