QUICK TAKES - Feb. 25, 2009

Funnyman Andy Richter, who spent seven years as Conan O’Brien’s “Late Night” second banana before leaving in 2000 to headline his own (short-lived) prime-time series, is returning to the fold.

Richter will be the announcer on “The Tonight Show” when O’Brien takes over as host June 1, NBC said Tuesday. He’ll also perform in comedy segments but won’t be assuming his previous sidekick duties, a network spokesman said.

“We have a proven chemistry that will be an incredible asset to ‘The Tonight Show,’ ” O’Brien said. “I’m looking forward to working with Andy on a daily basis again, particularly since he owes me $300.”

-- Lee Margulies