JAY OUTSCORES CBS’S ‘LATE SHOW’ FOR THE NOV. 10-14 WEEK BY A SEASON-HIGH 32 PERCENT MARGIN IN 18-49 VIEWERS AND CONAN BEATS ‘LATE LATE SHOW’ BY 34 PERCENT

IN THE YOUNGER HALF OF THE TARGET 18-49 DEMO, ADULTS 18-34, JAY STRETCHES HIS LEAD OVER ‘LATE SHOW’ TO 56 PERCENT AND CONAN WINS BY 74 PERCENT; CONAN ALSO TOPS LETTERMAN IN 18-34 VIEWERS

TUESDAY’S INTERVIEW OF SEN. JOHN MCCAIN BOOSTS ‘TONIGHT’ TO ITS BIGGEST NIGHT IN TOTAL VIEWERS SINCE FEBRUARY

UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. – November 20, 2008 – NBC’s late-night champs have delivered decisive wins for the week of November 10-14, with “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” generating its biggest overall audience in the past six months and “Late Night with Conan O’Brien” bringing in its biggest viewership in five months.

With Jay’s Tuesday interview of Senator John McCain boosting “Tonight” to its biggest overall audience for any day of the week since Monday, Feb. 11, “Tonight” matched its highest weeklong rating in adults 18-49 since the week of April 28-May 2 and achieved its biggest overall audience since that same week.

Conan followed at 12:35 a.m. ET by matching his highest 18-49 rating since the week of Feb. 11-15 and delivering his biggest overall audience since June 9-13.

Jay earned his biggest winning margins of the season over CBS’s “Late Show with David Letterman,” taking the 11:35 p.m. ET hour in adult 18-49 viewers by a 32 percent margin and posting a 38 percent advantage in total viewers. At 12:35 a.m. ET, Conan generated winning margins over CBS’s “Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson” of 34 percent in 18-49 viewers and 14 percent in total viewers. Jay and Conan stretched their leads in the younger half of the target 18-49 demo, adults 18-34, with Jay topping Letterman by a 56 percent margin and Conan triumphing by 74 percent.

In the valuable adult 18-34 category, Conan outscored Letterman (486,000 viewers vs. 473,000), despite Conan’s later start time.

At 1:35 a.m. ET, “Last Call with Carson Daly” tied both Ferguson and ABC’s “Jimmy Kimmel Live” in adults 18-34 (with a 0.4 rating each).

Season to date, Jay is delivering a 15 percent margin of victory over Letterman in adult 18-49 viewers and a 23 percent advantage in total viewers, while Conan’s leads over Ferguson are 25 percent in 18-49 and 4 percent in total viewers. Both Jay and Conan once again pull away among younger adults, with Jay leading the season by a 33 percent margin among adult 18-34 viewers and Conan winning by 58 percent.

For the week of November 10-14, Jay’s average 1.797 million adults 18-49 topped the 1.362 million of Letterman; in total viewers, Jay’s audience of 5.137 million persons beat Letterman’s 3.731 million; and in adults 18-34, Jay’s 737,000 out-delivered Letterman’s 473,000. At 12:35 a.m. ET, Conan’s 991,000 adults 18-49 for the week out-delivered Ferguson’s 738,000; in total viewers, Conan’s 2.041 million beat Ferguson’s 1.786 million; and in adults 18-34, Conan’s 486,000 topped Ferguson’s 280,000.

WEEKLY AVERAGES
(According to in-home viewing figures from Nielsen Media Research for the week of November 10-14. Ratings reflect “live plus same day” data unless otherwise noted. Season-to-date figures are averages of “live plus seven day” data except for the two most recent weeks, which are “live plus same day.”)

ADULTS 18-49

11:35 p.m. ET
NBC “Tonight,” 1.4 rating, 6 share
CBS “Late Show,” 1.0/4
ABC “Nightline,” 1.2/4

12:05 a.m. ET
ABC “Kimmel,” 0.6/3*

12:35 a.m. ET
NBC “Late Night,” 0.8/4
CBS “Late Late Show,” 0.6/3

1:35 a.m. ET
NBC “Last Call,” 0.4/3*

TOTAL VIEWERS

11:35 p.m. ET
NBC “Tonight,” 5.1 million viewers
CBS “Late Show,” 3.7 million viewers
ABC “Nightline,” 4.1 million viewers

12:05 a.m. ET
ABC “Kimmel,” 1.9 million viewers*

12:35 a.m. ET
NBC “Late Night,” 2.0 million viewers
CBS “Late Late Show,” 1.8 million viewers

1:35 a.m. ET
NBC “Last Call,” 1.2 million viewers*

* Friday’s “Last Call” and Monday’s Kimmel were encores.

SEASON TO DATE

ADULTS 18-49

11:35 p.m. ET
NBC “Tonight,” 1.3/5
CBS “Late Show,” 1.1/5
ABC “Nightline,” 1.1/4

12:05 a.m. ET
ABC “Kimmel,” 0.6/3

12:35 a.m. ET
NBC “Late Night,” 0.7/4
CBS “Late Late Show,” 0.6/3

1:35 a.m. ET
NBC “Last Call,” 0.5/3

TOTAL VIEWERS

11:35 p.m. ET
NBC “Tonight,” 4.8 million viewers
CBS “Late Show,” 3.9 million viewers
ABC “Nightline,” 3.9 million viewers

12:05 a.m. ET
ABC “Kimmel,” 1.8 million viewers

12:35 a.m. ET
NBC “Late Night,” 1.9 million viewers
CBS “Late Late Show,” 1.8 million viewers

1:35 a.m. ET
NBC “Last Call,” 1.1 million viewers

SELECTED CABLE RESULTS, WEEK OF NOVEMBER 10-14

NATIONAL ADULT 18-49 RATING

Comedy Central, 11 p.m. ET, “The Daily Show,” 0.8
Comedy Central, 11:30 p.m. ET, “The Colbert Report,” 0.7

Adult Swim, 11:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. ET, 0.8
Adult Swim, 12:30-1:30 a.m. ET, 0.4

Each adult 18-49 rating point equals 1.32 million viewers

TOTAL VIEWERS

Comedy Central, 11 p.m. ET, “The Daily Show,” 1.9 million
Comedy Central, 11:30 p.m. ET, “The Colbert Report,” 1.4 million

Adult Swim, 11:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. ET, 1.8 million
Adult Swim, 12:30-1:30 a.m. ET, 1.0 million

UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. – November 20, 2008 - It’s Thanksgiving week at the “Biggest Loser” ranch, and contestants will be celebrating with turkey, football and special guests Steve Young, Jerry Rice and Rocco DiSpirito on Tuesday, November 25 (8-10 p.m. ET).

It’s down to the final six contestants – trainer Jillian Michaels’ last two black team members, mother and daughter Renee and Michelle; and trainer Bob Harper’s four blue team members, Amy, Vicky and husband-and-wife Ed and Heba.

No Thanksgiving celebration would be complete without football, so NFL superstars Steve Young and Jerry Rice stop by to put the contestants through some fast-paced NFL-style drills. Then it’s off to a football challenge that will give the lucky winner a trip for four to Hawaii!

Later, celebrity chef Rocco DiSpirito makes a return appearance to the ranch, showing contestants how to prepare a tasty and healthy Thanksgiving dinner with far fewer calories than the traditional turkey day feast. And since nothing says Thanksgiving better than family, the contestants will be surprised with home videos from their loved ones.

At the weigh-in, one family fights to stay together and remain in the game for another week. Then after another contestant is sent home, host Alison Sweeney surprises the remaining players with big news.

“The Biggest Loser: Couples” is a production of Reveille LLC, 25/7 Productions and 3Ball Productions. Ben Silverman (NBC’s “The Office,” “Ugly Betty”), Dave Broome (”A Model Life with Petra Nemcova,” “Tsunami Aid: A Concert of Hope”), JD Roth (”Age of Love,” “Beauty and the Geek”), Todd A. Nelson (”Unan1mous,” “Beauty and the Geek”) and Mark Koops (”American Gladiators,” “Shear Genius”) serve as executive producers.

Season Three of the Emmy Award-Winning Online Experience Brings Fans Deeper into the World of “Heroes”

BURBANK, Calif. – November 19, 2008 – NBC.com has launched a new, exclusive interactive story for the third season of “Heroes: Evolutions,” the Emmy award winning digital extension of the popular series. Called “Friend or Foe,” the new feature allows users to explore on-air plot lines and engage with characters and other players. The announcement was made by Vivi Zigler, President, NBC Universal Digital Entertainment.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better show to work with than ‘Heroes,” said Zigler. “The depth and quality of the content allows us to constantly push the envelope and expand the ‘Heroes’ universe, giving the fans the best possible experience.”

“Friend or Foe” is a look into the “Heroes” world where both Primatech and Pinehearst are hiring contractors with expertise in intelligence, law enforcement and military operations to stay ahead of the rapidly escalating crisis seen on-air. As the series and the interactive story unfold throughout the season, the contractors play an increasingly critical role in the events occurring across the world. “Friend or Foe” lets fans be one of those contractors and blurs the lines between on-air and online. Each week users are presented with a new chapter in the ongoing interactive story. They must decide which contracts to pursue, which methods to use and whom they can trust. Ultimately, users will be able to shape their own stories online through their choices.

NBC.com, the Emmy Award-winning broadcast network website, is a leading online and mobile destination for television and interactive entertainment. With both derivative and web-exclusive programming, NBC.com pioneered the “360″ experience with “Heroes 360,” which gave viewers a way to extend their entertainment experience beyond the broadcast, and the first weekly social networking experience attached to a primetime entertainment program with “Dunder Mifflin Infinity.” The site offers full episode streaming of many NBC Entertainment shows as well as short clips, interactive games and social networking, including user-generated content. NBC.com continually develops new ways for consumers to experience entertainment content on both existing and emerging platforms. The site is the recipient of multiple Emmy and Webby awards for its content and applications. Please log on to www.nbc.com to learn more.

Baldwin Joins Previously Announced Guest Stars Including Liza Minnelli, Ne-Yo, Alanis Morissette, Kathy Griffin and Jane Krakowski

Universal City, CA – November 18, 2008 –Alec Baldwin, star of NBC’s “30 Rock” is set to appear on Rosie O’Donnell’s upcoming NBC variety special “Rosie Live,” on Wednesday, November 26 (8-9 p.m. ET), live from New York’s Little Shubert Theatre. Baldwin joins previously announced guest stars including legendary performer Liza Minnelli, recording artist’s Ne-Yo and Alanis Morissette, actress and comedienne Kathy Griffin and “30 Rock” star Jane Krakowski.

O’Donnell will bring back the grand tradition of the variety show format to television, like such iconic series as “The Carol Burnett Show” and “The Ed Sullivan Show,” while including brand-new elements for a new generation of fans. The special will feature a topical monologue, musical production numbers and hilarious comedy sketches.

“Rosie Live” is produced by Universal Media Studios in association with KidRo Productions. O’Donnell and David Friedman (”Last Call with Carson Daly”) are the executive producers.

UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. – November 14, 2008 - NBC celebrates the holidays by making a list and checking it twice with holiday-themed series episodes and specials throughout late November and December. A bevy of series will celebrate the most festive time of the year including “The Office,” “ER,” “My Name is Earl,” “30 Rock,” “Kath & Kim,” “The Biggest Loser: Families” and “Deal or No Deal” (dates and episode descriptions are below). In addition, the network will air “WWE Tribute to the Troops” on December 20 (9-10 p.m. ET).

This programming joins the previously announced holiday specials: “Rosie Live,” “A Muppets Christmas: Letters to Santa,” “Little Spirit,” “82nd Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade,” “The National Dog Show,” “Christmas in Rockefeller Center” and “New Year’s Eve with Carson Daly.”

Following are programming dates and details (all times ET):

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 25 (8-10 p.m. ET)
“The Biggest Loser: Families”

NFL SUPERSTARS JERRY RICE AND STEVE YOUNG AND CELEBRITY CHEF ROCCO DISPIRITO GUEST STAR IN THANKSGIVING EPISODE — It’s Thanksgiving week at the “Biggest Loser” ranch, and contestants will be celebrating with turkey, football and very special guests! First, NFL Super Bowl MVPs Jerry Rice and Steve Young stop by to put the contestants through NFL-style drills. Then celebrity chef Rocco DiSpirito helps the contestants make a healthy version of a traditional Thanksgiving dinner. Later, the contestants are really thankful when they receive special videos from home. Alison Sweeney is the host, and trainers Bob Harper and Jillian Michaels also star.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26
“Rosie Live” (8-9 p.m.)

EMMY AWARD-WINNING TALK SHOW HOST ROSIE O’DONNELL RETURNS TO TELEVISION ON NBC WITH ALL-NEW LIVE VARIETY SHOW — Airing live from New York City the night before Thanksgiving, Emmy Award-winning personality Rosie O’Donnell hosts “Rosie Live,” a fun-filled variety show featuring celebrity guests, musical acts, comedy skits and major audience giveaways. The one-hour broadcast will revitalize the classic variety show format made famous by such iconic series as “The Carol Burnett Show” and “The Ed Sullivan Show,” with a modern twist.

“Deal or No Deal” (9-10 p.m.)

CONTESTANTS ARE THANKFUL FOR THE CHANCE TO WIN THE TOP PRIZE OF TWO MILLION DOLLARS— Family man Jimmy Dolan from Fort Collins, Colorado hopes to win the top prize so he can buy two new cars, as well as start a college fund for his children. Ashley Otte from Randolph, Minnesota is a hard working college student hoping to go home with enough money to pay off her student loans and start enjoying college life. Otte mistakenly reveals to host Howie Mandel that her biggest fear is turkeys, which leads the Banker to put her family in a cage with eight live turkeys. The case models join in the festivities as they compete in a variety of Thanksgiving eating contests. Viewers at home can also watch and play the “Beat the Banker” game for a chance to win $50,000.

“Deal or No Deal” (10-11 p.m.)

CALIFORNIA FAMILY AND OREGON WAR HERO ARE DREAMING OF A MILLION DOLLAR CHRISTMAS — Father to thirteen kids, James Calhoun, will be rotating rounds with his daughter Gina and son Joshua. James wants to give his family an extravagant Christmas, something he’s never been able to do before. Next to play is Silver Star and Purple Heart recipient Matt Zedwick from Corrallis, Oregon. Newly married, Zedwick hopes to win enough money to take care of his new bride and buy a house. The giving does not end with the contestants — the audience receives an abundance of presents too. Viewers at home can also watch and play the “Beat the Banker” game for a chance to win $50,000. Howie Mandel hosts.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 27 (9 a.m. -12 p.m.)
“82nd Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade”

MILEY CYRUS, DAVID ARCHULETA AND MANY MORE STARS TO PERFORM ON NBC’S LIVE BROADCAST OF THE ‘82ND ANNUAL MACY’S THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE’ — Meredith Vieira (”Today”), Matt Lauer (”Today”) and Al Roker (”Today”) co-host the parade. Taking to the sky for the first time will be Buzz Lightyear, Horton, a Smurf balloon and a special balloon of artist Keith Haring’s work, “Figure with Heart.” Celebrating the start of the holiday season will be performers from stage, screen, sports and music riding down Broadway atop one of the parade’s moving stages. The stars joining the line-up include Miley Cyrus, Trace Adkins, David Archuleta and the Cheetah Girls. The parade will feature many eye-catching floats and balloons and will offer spectacular new additions, classic characters from children’s books, movies and television shows, a Who’s Who of pop culture icons.

“The National Dog Show Presented By Purina” (12 noon-2 p.m.)

CELEBRATE THE ‘BEST IN SHOW’ WITH ‘THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA’ — John O’ Hurley returns as host of this purebred canine competition that is part of the Kennel Club of Philadelphia’s annual dog show. One of the oldest and most prestigious sporting events in North America, the National Dog Show is one of only five remaining “benched” dog shows where the public can interact with the show dogs. With expert commentary from David Frei, “the dean” of dog show commentators, the show is expected to feature more than 2,000 of the nation’s leading canines representing more than 150 breeds, including some of the world’s most largest, smallest and most exotic breeds, all vying for “Best in Show” honors.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3 (8-9 p.m.)
“Christmas in Rockefeller Center”

NBC LIGHTS UP THE CHRISTMAS TREE IN ROCKEFELLER CENTER — NBC heralds the arrival of the holidays with a dazzling display of musical talent and the lighting of the world’s most famous Christmas tree during the 11th annual “Christmas in Rockefeller Center” telecast. Hosted by Al Roker (”Today”), the star-studded 76th annual tree lighting extravaganza will feature musical superstars such as Beyoncé, Tony Bennett, Neil Boyd, the Jonas Brothers, Harry Connick Jr., David Cook, Rosie O’Donnell and the Broadway Kids, Faith Hill, Rascal Flatts, and Solange Knowles as they perform current hits and holiday classics from Rockefeller Center in New York City. Prior to the network special, WNBC, NBC’s New York flagship station, will broadcast an additional live hour of the special (7-8 p.m. ET). “Christmas in Rockefeller Center” is produced by NBC Universal Media Studios, and Bob Holmes is the executive producer.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5 (8-9 p.m.)
“Greatest Holiday Moments: TV & Film Countdown”

COUNT DOWN THE BEST HOLIDAY MOMENTS FROM FILM AND TELEVISION — This holiday treat features clips from the most cherished holiday television specials and films of all time. From classic clips of Rankin Bass (”Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer”) and Jimmy Stewart (”It’s a Wonderful Life”) to more contemporary classics such as the films “Home Alone” and “A Christmas Story,” this unforgettable special will count down all the memorable scenes that make the Christmas season the best time of the year. “Greatest Holiday Moments: TV & Film Countdown” will conclude with the most outstanding holiday memory that will warm the hearts of the audience.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10 (8-9 p.m.)
“Little Spirit: Christmas in New York”

NEW ANIMATED CHRISTMAS SPECIAL — An all-star cast includes Danny DeVito, Lucy Liu, Freddy Rodriguez, Brenda Song and NBC News’ Brian Williams who lend their voices to a new animated holiday special that features original songs and music by Duncan Sheik, the Tony Award-winning writer and composer of Broadway’s “Spring Awakening.” The unique program stylistically blends the look of traditional painting with contemporary 3-D technology – creating an aesthetic that is both classic and innovative.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11 (8-8:30 p.m.)
“My Name Is Earl”
“Orphan Earl”

HO, HO, HO! CHRISTMAS COMES TO CAMDEN COUNTY — When Earl (Jason Lee) finds out that Joy (Jaime Pressly) has continued a holiday scam that they started years ago and has recruited her friends to be a part of it, so he makes it his mission to cross the conned man off his list. Ethan Suplee, Eddie Steeples and Nadine Velazquez also star.

“Kath & Kim” (8:30-9 p.m.)
“Friends”

SPECIAL HOLIDAY FRIENDS — In an effort to find some “couple friends,” Kath (Molly Shannon) and Phil (John Michael Higgins) decide to host a Christmas Party with the mall security guard, Pete (guest star David Koechner) and his wife as the guests of honor. Meanwhile, Kim and Craig find their friendship with Derrick (Jay Phillips) is put to the test at the annual Circuit Surplus Holiday bash.

“The Office” (9-9:30 p.m.)
“Moroccan Christmas”

A CHRISTMAS PARTY IN MOROCCO — Phyllis’ (Phyllis Smith) Moroccan-themed holiday party goes up in flames when Meredith’s (Kate Flannery) hair catches on fire and Michael (Golden Globe winner Steve Carell) is forced to deal with the accident. Meanwhile, Dwight (Rainn Wilson) corners the market on the hottest toy of the Christmas season. John Krasinski, Jenna Fischer, Angela Kinsey, Leslie David Baker, Ed Helms, Mindy Kaling, Oscar Nunez, Brian Baumgartner, Creed Bratton, Paul Lieberstein and Craig Robinson also star.

“30 Rock” (9:30-10 p.m.)
“Christmas Special”

CHRISTMAS SPIRIT TAKES OVER 30 ROCK AS LIZ ATTEMPTS TO FULFILL CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS WISHES; ELAINE STRITCH GUEST-STARS — Only days before Christmas, Liz’s (Tina Fey) parents ditch her to celebrate the holidays at a couples-only retreat, leaving her all alone for the holiday and to fill the void, she participates in a charity program, “”Letters to Santa,” to help underprivileged kids have a nice Christmas. Meanwhile, Jack (Alec Baldwin) takes his frustration out on the TGS staff when his plans for a dream holiday vacation away from his overbearing mother, Colleen (guest star Elaine Stritch) are crushed. The TGS crew are forced to give up their plans to produce a last-minute Christmas special. Tracy Morgan, Jane Krakowski, Jack McBrayer, Judah Friedlander and Keith Powell also star.

“ER” (10-11 p.m.)
“The High Holiday”

IT’S THE BEST TIME OF THE YEAR — As Christmas nears, Morris (Scott Grimes) receives an unwanted package from his father while Sam (Linda Cardellini) is anxious about getting Alex (Dominic Janes) off of the ventilator. Meanwhile, a pregnant woman with a high-risk pregnancy is in danger of getting deported. Parminder Nagra, David Lyons and Angela Bassett also star.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 12 (8-9 p.m.)
“Greatest Holiday Moments: Songs of the Season Countdown”

MEDLEY OF CLASSIC CHRISTMAS SONGS — This musical medley traces the best performances of both classic and contemporary Christmas songs. From timeless chestnuts such as Bing Crosby’s “White Christmas,” Gene Autry’s “Frosty the Snowman” and John Lennon’s “Happy Christmas” to more recent essentials such as Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” this holiday delight will count down the greatest songs of the season.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13 (8-11 p.m.) and WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 24 (8-11 p.m.)
“It’s a Wonderful Life”

MOST ‘WONDERFUL’ HOLIDAY MOVIE IN FRANK CAPRA CLASSIC — NBC marks a milestone for the nation’s visually impaired as the network presents this exclusive and special telecast of Frank Capra’s 1946 holiday classic, “It’s a Wonderful Life,” starring James Stewart, Donna Reed and Lionel Barrymore. Through a process of Descriptive TheatreVision, the special presentation will be described for the blind and visually impaired by former President George Bush. Bush’s description will inform the viewer of what is occurring on the screen, filling the blanks where no dialogue or other sounds tell a visually impaired person what is happening during a television presentation. The film follows the life of George Bailey (Stewart) from childhood to maturity in the town of Bedford Falls. On what might be his last Christmas Eve, a discouraged Bailey wants to throw his life away. Fortunately, Clarence (Henry Travers), a second-class angel, is sent to show him the value of life. After Clarence gives Bailey a view of Bedford Falls without him, Bailey realizes how precious his life is and gets a second chance. He comes to learn that Clarence was right when he said, “No man is a failure who has friends.” The film, which earned Oscar nominations for best picture, director, actor and film editing, was produced and directed by Capra.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17 (8-9 p.m.)
“A Muppets Christmas: Letters to Santa”

MUPPETS MUST GET LETTERS TO SANTA ON TIME – In “A Muppets Christmas: Letters to Santa,” the Emmy and Grammy-Award winning Muppets deliver a new, one-hour special filled with songs, mayhem and heaps of holiday high spirits. On Christmas Eve, Kermit, Fozzie, Gonzo and the rest of the gang mistakenly avert three letters from making their way to Santa Claus. Can they get the letters to Santa in time? Needless to say, nothing — not even Miss Piggy’s planned trip to the tropics — can stand between the Muppets and a Merry Christmas. The special boasts songs by Paul Williams (songwriter for “The Muppet Movie”), an all-star cast including Whoopi Goldberg, Richard Griffiths, Jane Krakowski, Tony Sirico, Steve Schirripa, Uma Thurman, Petra Nemcova, Jesse L. Martin and Madison Pettis — and a heartfelt message about the true meaning of the holiday season – makes “A Muppets Christmas” destined to become a new holiday family classic.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20 (9-10 p.m.)
“WWE Tribute to the Troops”

WWE SUPERSTARS ENTERTAIN THE TROOPS ON THE FRONT LINES — In an hour-long special, WWE Chairman Vince McMahon — along with today’s top WWE “Superstars and Divas” — visit forward-operating bases of the U.S. armed forces, meet the troops, and perform in front of a military crowd in Iraq. McMahon and the WWE have taken the reins from the memorable classic tours headlined by NBC’s Bob Hope as the only entertainers to travel to Iraq and Afghanistan to entertain the troops for the last six consecutive holiday seasons. That commitment to entertain the troops moved President George W. Bush to tape a special message for the holiday special. The switch to NBC marks a return to network television for the WWE’s most important show of the year.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 22 (8-9 p.m.)
“Greatest Holiday Moments: Hilarious Home Video Countdown”

COUNT DOWN EVERYONE’S FAVORITE HOLIDAY HOME VIDEOS — It’s holiday home video time as viewers count down the most hilarious and entertaining holiday moments from families across the country. The hour of non-stop family fun will feature the best moments chosen from thousands of real home-video submissions. This special will rank the best amateur footage America has to offer from memorable moments to classic Christmas chaos.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31 (10-11 p.m. and 11:35 p.m. - 12:35 a.m.)
“NBC’s New Year’s Eve with Carson Daly”

LUDACRIS, 50 CENT AND KATY PERRY PERFORM AS CARSON DALY RINGS IN THE NEW YEAR — “Last Call” host Carson Daly will be ringing in the New Year live from Times Square with “NBC’s New Year’s Eve with Carson Daly.” The show promises to give viewers the experience of being in the middle of the world’s most famous New Year’s Eve destination, Times Square, and for the first time will be broadcast beginning in primetime from 10-11 p.m. (ET) and continue in late night from 11:35 p.m.-12:35 a.m. in high definition. “NBC’s New Year’s Eve with Carson Daly” will once again feature the biggest names in music with this year’s performers Ludacris, 50 Cent and Katy Perry performing. Viewers will be a part of all the action with Saturday “Today” co-anchor Amy Robach reporting from amongst the hundreds of thousands of revelers in Times Square. Along with Robach, NBC News correspondent Luke Russert will join the broadcast this year.

QUOTABLES FROM “SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE’S” “WEEKEND UPDATE WITH SETH MEYERS” NOVEMBER 15, 2008

“WEEKEND UPDATE” ANCHOR SETH MEYERS– “It’s official, for the next four years, it will be pronounced ‘nuclear.’”

MEYERS – “On Monday, first lady Laura Bush gave Michelle Obama a private tour of their residence, without once taking her hand off her pocketbook.”

MEYERS– “Aides to Barack Obama are preparing a major expansion of the White House communications operation, which will enable them to reach out through the Internet directly to the many Obama supporters they collected during the campaign. I just hope he’s not one of these guys who updates his Facebook status every five seconds.”

MEYERS– “Barack Obama met with Hillary Clinton on Friday to see if she would be interested in a role in his administration. ‘Of course,’ said Hillary. ‘I’ll take President.’”

MEYERS– “Thomas Beatie, the pregnant man who appeared on ‘Oprah’ and gave birth last June to a baby girl is pregnant again. What’s his secret? (WHISPERING) He has a uterus and a vagina.”

MEYERS – “Police in Germany say that a man with no arms stole a 24-inch television set from a store. The man said he would have paid for it, but he couldn’t reach his wallet.”

(THE IMAGE INVERTS AGAIN)

“Police in Germany say that a man with no arms stole a 24-inch television set from a store. Man, how lazy are your employees when they don’t stop a guy from kicking a TV out the front door?”

(IMAGE FLIPS AGAIN)

“One more? Police in Germany say that a man with no arms stole a 24-inch television set from a store. Ah, the old ‘no finger’ discount.”

MEYERS – “Last week, the state of California passed … Police in Germany say that a man with no arms stole a 24-inch television set from a store. Police said it was an easy arrest as the suspect was unarmed.”

MEYERS– “‘Sopranos’ actor Tony Sirico debuted a new cologne this week named for his TV character Paulie Walnuts called ‘Paulo Per Uomo,’ which is Italian for Paul for Men. It is expected to do slightly better than ‘Big Pussy’s feminine hygiene spray.’”

MEYERS– “The mayor of a small town in Turkey called Batman, is suing ‘Dark Knight’ director Christopher Nolan and Warner Brothers, for using the city’s name without permission. Among those paying careful attention to the outcome of the case: the mayor of Incredible Hulk, Armenia.”

MEYERS—”Madonna reportedly told a friend that A-Rod ‘has the heart of a poet trapped inside an insanely gorgeous body.’ A-Rod then said Madonna has the heart of a gorgeous woman trapped inside the body of a velociraptor.”

MEYERS– “Will Smith, Tom Cruise and Rush Limbaugh are among Barbara Walters’ 10 Most Fascinating People of 2008. Which proves, if nothing else, that Barbara Walters is easily fascinated.”

New Series From Nigel Lythgoe and Simon Fuller, the Producers of “American Idol” and “So You Think You Can Dance” will be Hosted by Michael Flatley (”Lord of the Dance”)

UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif., November 14, 2008 - NBC will broadcast “Superstar Dancers of the World,” (working title) a breathtaking international dance competition led by executive producers Nigel Lythgoe and Simon Fuller, two of the masterminds behind “American Idol” and “So You Think You Can Dance” and hosted by Michael Flatley (”Lord of the Dance”). For broadcast in early 2009, the unique series will pit the masters of various dance genres from eight countries against each other. Equal parts sporting event, rock concert and artistic exhibition, “Superstar Dancers of the World” is poised to become one the greatest spectacles of dance performance ever seen on television.

The announcement was made by Craig Plestis, Executive Vice President, Alternative Programming, Development and Specials, NBC Entertainment.

“This dance competition is very much like the Olympics,” said Plestis. “The physical feats these athletes and artists pull is mind-blowing, and we’re so excited to form what we hope will be the definitive dance competition to decide which nation has what it takes to be the best of the best in the world. With so much at stake, this is sure to be a roller coaster, and you never know what will happen next. Plus, with Nigel and Simon running the show, it will be done first class all the way.”

“This is the most challenging and exhilarating project I’ve ever done,” said Lythgoe. “Nothing of this magnitude has ever been attempted before on television. We will bring to America different cultural styles of dancers — each performer the best in their genre — and the sheer mosaic of styles and energy is going to be nothing short of awe-inspiring.”

Eight countries will participate in the competition with each team comprised of two soloists, one duo and one larger group. Viewers will get to know the competitors and the coaches through the trials and tribulations, both behind the scenes and on the stage. The stakes are high for these artists, as they are not only representing themselves, but also their dance form and their entire nation.

The eight countries currently scheduled to participate include: Ireland, India, USA, Argentina, China, Russia, South Africa and Australia. The dance styles that will be represented on the show will be announced at a later date.

“Superstar Dancers of the World” is from 19 Entertainment. Nigel Lythgoe (”American Idol,” “So You Think You Can Dance”) and Simon Fuller (”American Idol,” “So You Think You Can Dance”) are the executive producers.

BURBANK – November 14, 2008 – NBC has signed Hilary Duff to a one-year, exclusive, talent and development deal to star in her own series that would also allow her to guest-star or appear in multiple story arcs in various current NBC series, it was announced today by Ben Silverman, Co-Chairman, NBC Entertainment and Universal Media Studios.

“Hilary is an incredibly versatile talent with a huge following whose career we know will continue to soar on NBC,” said Teri Weinberg, Executive Vice President, NBC Entertainment. “We are confident we will develop great ideas that would feature her vast talents and are thrilled to have this opportunity.”

The new series would be produced by Universal Media Studios.

Hilary gained fame in the Disney Channel’s top-rated series “Lizzie McGuire” in 2001. Shortly after, Duff starred in numerous feature films such as “The Lizzie McGuire Movie,” “Agent Cody Banks,” “A Cinderella Story,” “The Perfect Man,” “Raise Your Voice,” “Cheaper by the Dozen” and “Cheaper by the Dozen 2.”

More recently, Hilary pushed new boundaries as an actress co-starring in John Cusack’s critically acclaimed 2008 film “War, Inc.” Also due on the big screen in 2009, are the feature films “Safety Glass,” “Stay Cool” and “Greta,” in which Hilary plays the title character and co-stars with Oscar winner Ellyn Burstyn.

In addition to her acting, Duff also has a global prolific and successful singing career, entering the Top-40 music charts with the singles “So Yesterday” and “Come Clean.” Her first album, “Metamorphosis,” debuted at #2 on the Billboard 200 and later rose to the #1 spot, selling over two million copies. She has won two platinum album awards and her concerts are routinely sold out across the country as she attracts a large and loyal fan base.

Among her many accolades, Duff was honored with two separate Teen Choice Awards for her performances in “The Lizzie McGuire Movie” and “A Cinderella Story.” She also was named by Teen People as one of the magazine’s “25 Hottest Stars Under 25.”

Hilary is passionate about several charitable causes. Her charity work includes the founding of Blessings in a Back Pack, an organization she started with USA Harvest founder Stan Curtis, which helps inner city schoolchildren get the nutrition they need. Hilary has also been passionate in speaking out against animal cruelty.

NEW YORK – November 13, 2008 – NBC’s “Saturday Night Live” has its own post-election “transition team” gearing up as the show begins adding new faces Abby Elliott and Michaela Watkins as featured players. They will begin appearing on the show this weekend.

Elliott, originally from Wilton, CT comes to “SNL” via the Upright Citizens Brigade Theater — the improv/sketch theater co-founded by “SNL” alum Amy Poehler – where she trained and performed in both their New York and Los Angeles theaters. In addition, Elliott trained with LA’s famed Groundlings Theater.

Born in Syracuse, NY and raised in Boston. MA comes to the show from the mainstage company of Los Angeles’ famed Groundlings Theater where such distinguished SNL cast members such as Will Ferrell, Phil Hartman, Laraine Newman and Kristen Wiig got their start.

Sasha Cohen, Tanith Belbin & Ben Agosto, Evan Lysacek and Mirai Nagasu Headline Event

NEW YORK - November 13, 2008 - NBC Sports presents coverage of “McDonald’s Family Tribute on Ice” Sunday at 2 p.m. ET from the Galen Center at the USC in Los Angeles. Olympic gold medalist Kristi Yamaguchi and NBC Sports commentator Craig Hummer will host the show.

“McDonald’s Family Tribute on Ice” features some of figure skating’s top current stars as they dedicate this event to the care and devotion of their families in shaping their lives and athletic careers. Pop Star Nick Lachey, former lead singer of the boy band 98 Degrees, and Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter and actor Mario will provide the music for the show.

Skaters headlining the show are 2006 Olympic Ice Dancing silver medalists Tanith Belbin and Ben Agosto, U.S. National Champion Evan Lysacek, current U.S. National Champion Mirai Nagasu, 2006 Olympic silver medalist Sasha Cohen, World Champion Jeffrey Buttle and 2007 U.S. National Champion Kimmie Meissner.

JEEP WORLD OF ADVENTURE, SATURDAY, 2:30 PM ET
NBC Sports presents another episode of the Emmy Award winning Jeep World of Adventure Sports Saturday at 2:30 p.m. ET. This final 2008 episode debuts the JWOAS’ “green” initiative. Snowboarder Jeremy Jones, Protect Our Winters founder, aims to unite the winter sports community. By spreading environmental awareness about climate change and consumer habits, Jones hopes to preserve slopes for future generations. Also in the show, Steve Fisher and Ben Brown go to Zambia with Kayak and Red Bull athletes, for the Steve Fisher Expedition. Fisher and Brown set out to master the Zambezi, Kaombe and Kalungwishi rivers, and take on some of the world’s most magnificent waterfalls.

Coverage also includes the seven-day cycling competition along the Missouri River, the Tour of Missouri. Jeep World of Adventure follows team Garmin as they cross the finish line to cement a victory under the historic Gateway Arch in St. Louis. JWOAS also follows the Red Bull Project with Simon Dumont, a free style skier who attempts to break the world record for highest air on quarterpipe. Saturday’s episode concludes with a sneak peek of Teton Gravity Research’s newest film “Under the Influence.”