Jay Leno, now 74, has enjoyed a legendary career, transitioning from his iconic role as host of The Tonight Show to his well-loved web series Jay Leno’s Garage. From 2015 to 2022, this series aired on nbc.com and later gained over 3.7 million subscribers on YouTube. Through this platform, Leno shared his love for cars and motorcycles, entertaining fans with his deep passion for all things automotive.
However, tragedy struck in November 2022 when a fire broke out in his Burbank garage while he was working on one of his cars. Leno sustained severe injuries, including third-degree burns on his face. He told Variety at the time, “I got some serious burns from a gasoline fire… but I’m OK. I just need a week or two to get back on my feet.” Leno’s injuries were so severe that he needed surgery to replace his left ear, which he lost in the fire.
Unfortunately, his string of bad luck didn’t end there. Just two months after the fire, Leno was involved in a motorcycle accident where he broke his collarbone, cracked two ribs, and fractured his kneecaps. Despite these setbacks, Jay’s passion for cars—and his resilient spirit—remains unwavering.
One of the most steadfast aspects of Leno’s life is his enduring love for his wife, Mavis, who he married in 1980. Leno has often praised Mavis, telling People magazine, “I always tell guys to marry someone who’s the person you wish you could be—it works out okay.” The couple, who chose not to have children, have faced new challenges in recent years. Mavis, now 77, was diagnosed with dementia, and her condition has been rapidly declining.
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In April 2024, a Los Angeles judge granted Leno conservatorship over Mavis’ estate, deeming the decision “necessary and appropriate.” According to court documents, Mavis had been “progressively losing capacity and orientation to space and time for several years.” Her neurologist, Dr. Cohen, added in the filing that sometimes Mavis “does not know her husband, Jay, nor her date of birth.” Despite her condition, Dr. Cohen noted that Leno “treats Mavis like gold” and continues to provide emotional and financial support.
In light of these developments, Jay Leno has also been preparing for the inevitable—his own passing. According to In Touch magazine, Leno has made detailed estate plans to ensure that his assets, particularly his prized car collection, are protected. The court filings reveal, “No one lives forever, and the actions taken by Mr. Leno are reasonable and necessary for his and Mavis’ protection.” Mavis has agreed to these arrangements, trusting Jay to manage their estate for her benefit.
The estate plan outlines that if Leno passes away first, the assets will transfer into the “Leno Marital Trust,” which includes his $52 million car and motorcycle collection, as well as any properties housing the collection. This trust will be irrevocable, ensuring that Mavis is supported for the rest of her life. After her passing, the remaining assets will be distributed according to Leno’s wishes, with a significant portion going to the JDM Foundation, a charity Jay founded in 1988. The foundation plans to open a museum dedicated to his automobile collection, ensuring his legacy as a car enthusiast lives on.
Additionally, Leno has arranged for $7 million to be left to Mavis’ brother, Rikki Nicholson, and his nephew, Richard Leno. These provisions ensure that his family will be cared for, while his car collection and philanthropic efforts continue long after he’s gone.
Jay Leno’s meticulous planning reflects both his love for Mavis and his passion for cars. It’s difficult to imagine a world without Leno’s wit and charm, but he has ensured that his legacy—both personal and professional—will endure. Share your thoughts and send love to Jay and Mavis during this challenging time.
