NBC says "No" to Idol Gives Back for Conan O'Brien

19 Entertainment asked NBC if Conan O'Brien can appear on Idol Gives Back, but the TV moratorium doesn't expire until May 1.

Darn! This would have been good. Boo NBC.

From Hollywood Reporter:

After a two-week stall, Fox and Conan O'Brien have resumed talks about a potential late-night talk show fronted by the former "Tonight Show" host.

But a wrinkle in the courtship has emerged that involves the biggest show on television: O'Brien has been approached to take part in Fox's "Idol Gives Back" special April 21.

Sources close to both camps stress that the offer is not related to the ongoing late-night discussions and in no way means the two sides expect to have a deal by April 21. In fact, the invitation to O'Brien came not from Fox but from "American Idol" producer 19 Entertainment, which is reaching out to several celebrities for the charity special.

The answer was no, as the moratorium on any TV appearances by O'Brien doesn't expire until May 1. He can, however, launch a show as early as September.

Source: Hollywood Reporter