First of all, I’m not out to kick Charlie Sheen when he’s down. I sincerely wish him godspeed in getting past his personal problems and turning his life around -- which right now might be viewed as a lesson in how money can’t buy happiness.

So, I saw Jay Leno on Oprah’s show. I’ve also been reading some of the blogosphere commentary afterward. And, frankly, I think it’s time to say a few words in Leno’s defense -- because, in my view, this guy is guilty of nothing more than being perceived as less cool than Conan O’Brien (and David Letterman) for that matter.

So, here’s the situation.

NBC is facing an affiliate revolt against “The Jay Leno Show” at 10 p.m. because the show’s low ratings are seriously hurting their 11 p.m. newscasts.

Until now, the American Life Network has been known primarily as a lower-rated version of TVLand, airing off-net staples such as "L.A. Law" and "Remington Steele."