Networks encouraging boycott of ‘Leno Show’?

LOS ANGELES — NBC may be happy with the new “Jay Leno Show,” but some of the other networks definitely are not.

ABC and CBS have been discouraging their talent from booking appearances on the funnyman’s new primetime show, Leno said on Tuesday when Julia Louis-Dreyfus appeared on his program.

“Yes, there was a little pressure because as you know, you’re now on primetime and I’m on a different network,” the “New Adventures Of Old Christine” star told Leno earlier this week.

The funny lady, an NBC “Seinfeld” vet who reunited with her old cast for an upcoming episode of HBO’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm” (airing this Sunday, Oct. 4), said she chose to appear on Leno’s show because of their relationship.

“Obviously, I committed to doing your show and we’re friends,” she said. “I wanted to honor my commitment to you.”

According to one network executive, Leno’s new show airing in primetime has caused some tension among the networks.

“In prime time, the stakes are higher and you have to protect your flank,” the unnamed exec told the Los Angeles Times.

Leno’s new 10 p.m. show has cut the need for as many scripted dramas on network television, something that has hit home with writers and producers.

“I wish NBC and Jay Leno well; personally, he’s a very nice guy, but I hope he falls flat on his face and we get five dramas back,” former “ER” and “West Wing” producer John Wells previously told the Los Angeles Times.

While Leno may not be seeing stars of the “CSI” franchise on his show any time soon, the comedian has seen some movement from FOX. Hugh Laurie from “House” stopped by last Friday. “House,” however, is produced by Universal, which is part of NBC.

But while primetime stars aren’t wearing the “Jay Leno Show” floors thin, a host of non-NBC A-list actors have already made appearances including Tom Cruise, Cameron Diaz, Miley Cyrus, Mel Gibson, Vince Vaughn and Drew Barrymore.