US TV legend Jay Leno bows out after 22 years of The Tonight Show

Leno was joined by high-profile guests including Billy Crystal, Oprah Winfrey, and Garth Brooks as he taped his final episode.

05:58 10 February 2014

US TV legend Jay Leno has taped his last episode of the Tonight Show as it emerged that fellow comedian and late-night host Jimmy Fallon takes over the programme starting on February 17. Leno was joined by high-profile guests as he appeared emotional during his last taping. He thanked viewers for their loyalty after his 22 years as host. It appears that the move to replace Leno with a 39-year-old host is to attempt to win the hearts of younger viewers. 

 

Following the news, the last full week of the Tonight Show enjoyed largest audience in four years. According to Nielsen, an average of nightly audience of 4.99million viewers tuned in during from January 27 – 31. This is an increase of up to 30per cent compared to the same period last year. 

 

Among those who sent in taped goodbyes is US President Barack Obama. He joked: "I hope you've got a warm coat, funny man,” offering to make Leno an ambassador to Antarctica. 

 

Meanwhile, Jack Black sang: 'So long, farewell, auf wiedersehen my dear, if Fallon tanks you'll be back here next year".