Fox Network Reportedly Clearing the Way to Put Conan O’Brien Back on the Air

(HMG) – While Conan O’Brien should be busy for a while with his 30-date nationwide tour, beginning on April 12, there are strong indications that his return to network late night TV is in the works. According to a new report, Fox execs have been in touch with several affiliates, “applying pressure” to put Conan O’Brien on the air between 11 and midnight.  Sources tell TMZ, Fox execs and Conan’s reps have been “seriously talking,” though no deal has been made. Some of the Fox affiliates have been resistant to running a Conan show, because they’d make good money with the current schedule of sitcom reruns such as “The Office.” Several execs at the affiliate stations are saying they have felt the pressure from Fox honchos to take O’Brien’s show, and that a deal is “imminent.”

Meanwhile Conan’s “The Legally Prohibited From Being Funny On Television Tour” will open in Eugene, Oregon and go on to brighten thirty different cities in both the US and Canada. Talks are also under way for a documentary of  O’Brien’s comedy tour,  with Media Rights Capital looking to finance the movie, and Rodman Flender to direct. The move wouldn’t violate O’Brien’s agreement with his former bosses.  O’Brien got the live show started as a way to help his staff of about 40 keep busy and employed.