[Ed. Note: This is the internal memo from Steve Koonin, President of Turner Entertainment Networks, to his staff.]

Everyone,

Over the past decade, we have set our sights on growing TEN’s business by demonstrating that our programming and marketing are valid substitutes for broadcast TV. Generations of Americans have switched their viewing choices to cable TV in news, sports, kids programming and, in the last few years, original series.

Broadcast’s last stronghold has been morning and late-night television. But our sister network, Adult Swim, proved that there is a viable audience outside of broadcast for young adult viewers. Just six months ago, TBS entered the fray to steal viewers and revenue from broadcast with the launch of Lopez Tonight.

Now I am pleased to share news that will accelerate our growth in making late-night TV the territory of Turner Entertainment Networks.

Conan O’Brien has agreed to bring his Emmy-winning comedy to TBS. Starting in November, Conan will take over the 11 p.m. time slot on TBS.

George Lopez, who assisted in our recruitment of Conan, will follow at midnight. The combination of these two hosts – with their core audiences of young, diverse viewers – should lead TBS to a leadership position in late-night television.

Please see the attached press release. I am very proud that Conan chose TBS. As you’ve surely read and heard, Conan could have gone anywhere – broadcast, pay cable or syndicated TV networks – for his new home. Conan chose TBS because of our brand, programming compatibility, marketing process and people.

Getting a deal like this done quickly and confidentially is a difficult task. I especially want to recognize our business affairs leaders, Pat Kelly and Sandra Dewey, for their expert handling of the deal terms and negotiations. Business affairs is akin to an umpire in a baseball game: If you don’t notice them, they have done a great job. Sandra literally worked all week while she was on vacation to make this crazy idea a reality. It’s a reminder that our people make TEN such a fun and exciting place to work.

Steve Koonin