David Spade’s smarmy smugness just doesn’t work anymore; probably because as he is forced to admit, he is older now and therefore mellower, not a trait that helps edgy-esque comedy. One of the first sentences out of his mouth on his recent Tonight Show appearance was an apology for having to sit weirdly because of a bad neck. Good start when you are looking for sympathy from the audience, but not that usual cocky “I’m just f**king with you” Spade style.

He then proceeded to work his prepared material from beginning to end with cued help from Leno, who seemed only to be there only for the purpose of feeding Spade lines. Jay dutifully led Spade into his “bits” on family, dating and liposuction. At one point, Spade seemed to forget his own material and, looking lost, had to vamp until he got back on track. Focus, buddy.

The only real mention of his current series Rules of Engagement and the reason for his booking in the first place, was in reference to his having to attend the Superbowl at the Network’s request. He then went into “bits” on massage, Peyton Manning, and strip clubs. You never felt like he was actually having a conversation or being interviewed, instead you felt used and manipulated. You know it’s bad when you feel as sorry for Jay Leno as you do for yourself. ‘Nuff said.