Biography
James Douglas Muir "Jay" Leno is a comedian, actor, philanthropist, television host, and car collector. He started his career as a stand-up comedian at Lennie’s-on-the-turnpike jazz club in Andover, Massachusetts. In 1973, he started his own comedy club and made his first appearance on television in 1977 on The Tonight Show.
Soon after, he had roles in films such as the 1977 film Fun with Dick and Jane and television shows such as Late Night with David Letterman. Despite some controversy, Jay became the host of the Tonight Show which he hosted until 2009. Only to be followed by Conan O’Brian and starting The Jay Leno Show. Jay and Conan both had less than successful ratings and after some resolutions Jay returned to the Tonight Show.
In 2014, Jay hosted his last Tonight show with Jimmy Fallon as his designated successor. Currently, Jay spends his time as a stand-up comedian and as host of his YouTube channel turned Primetime Emmy Awarded television show, Jay Leno’s Garage which features his collection of rarities ranging from classics, hyper-sports, and vintage vehicles.
Timeline
- 1950 - Born in New Rochelle, New York, USA
- 1973 - Graduated from Emerson College with Bachelor's in Speech Therapy and started his own comedy club
- 1977 - First appearance on The Tonight Show
- 1987 - Became a regular substitute for Johnny Carson
- 1992 - Became host of The Tonight Show
- 2001 - Donated $100,000 to the Feminist Majority Foundation
- 2001 - Began voicing the Crimson Chin on Nickelodeon
- 2007/2008 - Accused of violating WGA guidelines during Writers Guild of America strike
- 2009 - Donated $100,000 to Salem State College in honor of Lennie Sogoloff
- 2009 - Replaced by Conan O’Brian and started The Jay Leno Show
- 2010 - Jay became host of The Tonight Show after Conan O’Brian left
- 2012 - Auction Fiat 500 for $385,000, proceeds went to a Wounded War Veteren recovery program
- 2014 - Annoucement of Jimmy Fallon as successor to The Tonight Show
- 2014 - Maintained actice tours as a stand-up comedian
- 2015 - Announced Jay Leno’s Garage wolid a weekly special on CNBC