Jimmy Fallon appears to be inching closer to Conan O'Brien's "Late Night" chair.

For months, Fallon has been widely considered the top choice to succeed O'Brien when he steps down next year. On Thursday, published reports said Fallon has signed, or soon will sign, a deal with NBC.

NBC had no comment Thursday on the stories by the Hollywood Reporter and Variety. Industry observers had expected the network to announce its choice for host within the next few weeks, possibly at its May 12 presentation for advertisers.

A former regular on ...