Conan-Fox Talks Heat Up

After stalling for two weeks, Conan O’Brien’s talks with Fox have resumed, and certain details make it look as if a deal is imminent. Updates, from the Hollywood Reporter:

• Conveniently enough, O’Brien’s comedy tour has a performance scheduled every day between May 13 and 20—except May 17, which just so happens to be the date of Fox’s upfront presentation.
• O’Brien was invited to participate in Fox’s American Idol special “Idol Gives Back” on April 21, but NBC shot that idea down since O’Brien’s settlement does not allow for any TV appearances until May 1.

• Despite the Idol invitation, sources close to both O’Brien and Fox say neither side expects a deal by April 21.
• However, if a deal is made by April 12 when O’Brien’s tour launches, the comedian could use his tour—which stops in all of the top nine TV markets—as a way of meeting with affiliates.
• But the former Tonight Show host is still considering other options including a syndicated show or a cable show.