‘SVU’ Star Rips NBC’s Leno Decision

By Tracy Phillips
As Seen On TV
Comcast.net

Law & Order: SVU star Richard Belzer says NBC’s decision to give Jay Leno a primetime show five nights a week is “a tragedy.”

Belzer was at the Television Critics Association Press Tour, which kicked off Wednesday in Los Angeles, to promote a PBS special honoring the comedian’s friend George Carlin.

During the press conference, a reporter asked Belzer, who plays Det. John Munch on “SVU,” on the state of the show, which currently airs Tuesdays at 10 p.m.

“’SVU’ is the only hit dramatic series left on the big peacock, so I’m not worried. We’ll be moving to 9 p.m., obviously,” says Belzer, referring to Jay Leno’s move to primetime beginning Fall 2009.

The television industry was rocked last month when NBC announced it was giving Jay Leno a new show at 10 p.m. after he steps down as host of “The Tonight Show” in May. The move eliminates five hours of scripted programs from the network.

“It puts thousands of people out of work: actors, producers, crew, wardrobe people….” said Belzer.

“It may be smart in terms of saving money and it may be good for comedy - but it’s a terrible trend for network television.

“I’m not denigrating Jay,” Belzer continued. “But it shows the network is desperate, it’s the last gasp of a dying network. It’s a tragedy, frankly.”

“The Kennedy Center: Mark Twain Prize” honoring comedian George Carlin airs Wednesday, February 4th at 9 p.m. on PBS.