fortune, and they put our backs to the wall. >> i can only tell you that it's been an honor and a privilege to come into your homes all these years and entertain you. and i hope when i find something i want to do and that i like and that i think you'll like that you'll be as gracious as inviting me in as you have been. i bid you a very heartfelt good night. >> the "tonight show" without johnny carson as the regular host made its debut last night. jay leno emerged from behind the curtain, stepping into the big shoes filled by johnny. >> here we go, number ten then. heads cbs, tails cbs. >> he placed a call to johnny carson asking for his advice. and johnny said, if it was me, i would leave. and i think that advice was really the lynch pin. letterman always took johnny's advice. >> the late night wars are about