jay leno top gear

Putting a controversial egomaniac like Rush Limbaugh on Jay Leno's late night dais might seem like a squeeze play for a show that's reaching the bottom of the ninth of its opening day. And, well, it is, or at least it smells like it. Jay is no stranger to controversial guests, from his infamous interview with Hugh Grant just days after he got caught nibbling on a hooker's tea and crumpets to his recent sit-down smack-down with Kanye West.

So "El Rushbo" sounds like a natural punching bag for Leno's friendly jabs and right crosses, right? Not really. Leno bled into confrontational the way two guys in a bar argue a round of "F*$&, Marry or Kill," but for the most part, let the big-headed one (both emotionally and physically) speak as long as he wanted.

And when Rush is on your show, that's exactly what you let him do. Let him speak until the blood stops rushing to his brain. Whether you love him, hate him, or constantly think about the level of hell that's been specifically designed for him, he makes for an entertaining interview.