Intriguing as it sounds, Conan O'Brien's tour of America likely won't include " American Idol."

A plot twist has emerged as O'Brien and the Fox network try to hammer out a deal to bring the deposed "Tonight Show" host back to late-night: O'Brien was offered a guest spot on "American Idol's" April 21 charity special, "Idol Gives Back,"The Hollywood Reporter says.

However, it appears Conan can't accept the gig. As part of his nasty divorce from "Tonight" and NBC, he agreed not to appear on the small screen until May 1.

Despite appearances and reports to the contrary, Fox's camp — and O'Brien's — is throwing cold water on the larger implication, that Conan and Fox have in effect sealed a deal. Sources stressed to the Reporter that the "Idol Gives Back" offer was made by "Idol" producer 19 Entertainment, not the network.

Until an announcement is made, the saga continues.

Coco coincidence?

Should Conan O'Brien reach a deal to launch a new late-night show on Fox, the timing couldn't be better, The Hollywood Reporter notes. O'Brien could be available to attend Fox's fall upfront presentations to advertisers May 17 — the only free day in O'Brien's "Legally Prohibited From Being Funny on TV" tour between May 13 and May 20.