article_snippet: NBC Nightly News anchor Williams had pitched to NBC Universal and CBS about making Williams the next late-night show host before Williams was busted for falsifying stories.
article_snippet: And few years ago, Williams told NBC Universal CEO Steve Burke that Williams wanted to take over the Tonight Show from Jay Leno.
article_snippet: NBC Universal CEO Steve Burke turned down Williams's idea and instead offered NBC Universal CEO Steve Burke a weekly program called Rock Center, which Williams hoped could evolve into a variety show.
article_snippet: Instead, the Tonight Show from Jay Leno ended up mirroring 60 minutes and the Tonight Show from Jay Leno was canceled after two seasons, according to New York Magazine.
article_snippet: Williams pushed on, however, and went to CBS CEO Les Moonves to suggest succeeding David Letterman.
article_snippet: CBS CEO Les Moonves wasn't interested, sources told New York Magazine.
article_snippet: Though they first clashed - because Williams was used to having the final say over a show's content - the pair eventually warmed to one another.
article_snippet: Williams suggested succeeding both Jay Leno (left) and David Letterman (right).
article_snippet: CEOs from NBC Universal and CBS turned down Williams offers .
highlights_snippet: Williams was turned down by both NBC Universal CEO and CBS CEO .
  