Leno’s ‘American Idol’ Themed Monologue

Jay Leno joked during his Tonight Show monologue on Thursday night, “You know, Taylor Hicks has a huge following of fans who follow him around, those are called ‘The Soul Patrol’. No, don’t confuse those with people who follow George Michael around. That’s the Highway Patrol. That’s totally different. … But, you know what I think is great about this whole ‘American Idol’ thing? I’m just glad we live in a a country where we can settle our karaoke differences without bloodshed and gunfire. You know what I’m saying? … I tell you, it was pretty emotional last night. People in the audience crying. Did you see the mascara running down Ryan Seacrest’s face? … And as you know, this year’s big prize on ‘American Idol’, the winner got a recording contract. Last year’s prize, as you remember, was Paula Abdul, I think, wasn’t it? … I’m glad Taylor was on ‘American Idol’, ’cause I didn’t think he would have had a chance in hell if he’d been on ‘So You Think You Can Dance’, okay? … And Justin Guarini was there at the Kodak Theater last night, signing autographs. Then the manager at the concession stand said, ‘Okay, kid, break’s over. Back to work.’”