Things Are So Bad, You Have to Laugh

Nothing succeeds like failure, at least if you're a late-night TV talk show host. The recession, bankruptcies, and business flops are providing them with a rich source of material. Some samples from last night:

Jay Leno on the Tonight Show:

"Forecasters at the Federal Reserve in Philadelphia say the US has been in a recession for the last 14 months. ... Thank you, Nostradamus. That's how you know things are slowing down, when forecasters are now predicting the past."

David Letterman on the Late Show:

"Thanksgiving just around the corner. ... You know, it's a time when people can do nice things for others who are less fortunate. I hope you're planning on doing something for people less fortunate. For example, if you get the opportunity, if you have your Thanksgiving dinner, invite a Lehman brother."

Craig Ferguson the Late Late Show:

"Everyone is waiting to see what Barack Obama has planned. We already know his economic plan. It's designed to help small businesses that make under $250,000 a year. You know, like General Motors and Chrysler."

Source: Frontrunner