The former iconic host of The Tonight Show was faced with a series of devastating events at the end of 2022, leaving him grappling with the consequences not of one, but two major incidents, resulting in a multitude of health issues plaguing him.
The first incident occurred the previous year when the 73-year-old comedian found himself in a horrific car fire as he passionately tinkered with one of his beloved vintage cars within the confines of his Los Angeles garage. Little did he know that fateful day would be etched in his memory forever. The accident left him with severe second and third-degree burns, requiring a nine-day hospitalization at the renowned Grossman Burn Centre in West Hills.
Unfortunately, fate seemed relentless in its pursuit of Jay Leno’s well-being.
Shortly after, he suffered two fractured ribs and a broken collarbone in a motorcycle accident. Despite these trials, Leno’s indomitable spirit remained unshaken. Currently, he continues to host the captivating shows Jay Leno’s Garage and the NBC game show You Bet Your Life.
In an exclusive interview at the premiere of Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge, Leno spoke about his retirement plans, or lack thereof, and the circumstances that would lead him to step away from public life. Deeply rooted in his commitment to the nightlife industry, he expressed his desire to continue his career, categorically refusing to entertain retirement unless an unforeseen event like a stroke were to occur. He boldly stated, “So slow down.”
He committed to forge ahead on the path he had chosen until his health dictated otherwise, asserting, “That’s when you retire when you have your stroke.” Leno’s remarkable resilience shone through as he valiantly recovered from his recent tribulations.
After an extended hospital stay involving skin grafts, he wasted no time returning to his passions, even revisiting the scenes of his unfortunate accidents.
At the Comedy Magic Club in Hermosa Beach, California, where he made a triumphant return to the stage, a sold-out audience welcomed him with thunderous applause.
Reflecting on the car fire in an interview held a month later, Leno acknowledged the occupational hazards associated with working with cars, emphasizing the magnitude of this particular catastrophe. Recounting the terrifying experience, he admitted, “I knew how close I was to the burner, and I thought, ‘Uh oh.'” Describing the sensation as akin to the worst sunburn imaginable, Leno underwent grueling skin graft procedures and sessions in hyperbaric chambers to facilitate healing.
Remarkably, he chose to forgo painkillers throughout his recovery, citing their use as a painful reminder of his lapse in judgment and a means to disconnect from his situation.
The outpouring of love from his family and famous friends underscored Leno’s profound impact throughout his illustrious career. His devoted wife, Mavis, recounted the touching gestures of support from notable entertainment industry personalities, further highlighting the depth of friendship cultivated over the years.