Jay Leno passed the torch of “”The Tonight Show”” over to Conan O’Brien earlier this month. For most UA students Leno is the only host they’ve known and the shift to Conan has been anything but smooth in the eyes of most critics. I, however, think the Conan touch has been a nice change to the show.

If Conan fans like myself were hoping that O’Brien would stick to his style of comedy, then they were not disappointed by the first show, as his classic style was there in full force.

However, Leno lovers were likely left a little cold after last Monday’s show. Conan was simply being Conan on “”The Tonight Show”” that now, like it or not, bares his name.

O’Brien’s self-deprecating humor and odd puppet-string dancing accompanied him to the new show and have cemented their place in his act and, for the time being, at “”The Tonight Show.””

The dependence on pre-recorded clips took away from the show, but that cushion was probably needed to support him take on the big bad audience of “”The Tonight Show.”” Monologue jokes fell flat and at times even the audience and those of us at home on our couches had to give a sympathy laugh or two, but the show was far from disastrous.

Conan’s brand of humor has definitely not been left behind. “”I have to admit,”” he said, “”I think I’ve timed this moment perfectly – I’m on a last-place network, I’ve moved to a state that’s bankrupt and tonight’s show is sponsored by General Motors.””

As we make our way through these rough times, late night TV is facing similar changes. Stepping out of our TV comfort zone can be a hard choice to make, but I hope that America is ready to transition into the new era of “”The Tonight Show.””

O’Brien has never disappointed me and despite the backlash, I say, let’s let him adjust. Then we can pass judgment and go crying back to Jay in the fall.