Renowned entertainer Jay Leno faced a string of unfortunate events in the latter part of 2022, resulting in significant physical setbacks. The first incident occurred when a fire broke out in his Los Angeles garage, causing severe second and third-degree burns. Leno endured a challenging nine-day stay at the Grossman Burn Center for treatment.
However, fate dealt another blow to the 73-year-old comedian when he was involved in a motorcycle accident, resulting in two cracked ribs and a shattered collarbone. Despite these obstacles, Leno displayed remarkable resilience, continuing his professional endeavors with shows like 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 addressed questions about retirement, asserting his determination to carry on with his career until health issues, such as a stroke, forced him to reconsider. He declared, “That’s when you retire when you have your stroke,” demonstrating his unwavering commitment to his craft.
Reflecting on the car fire incident, Leno acknowledged the inherent risks of working on cars, emphasizing the severity of the accident. He underwent skin grafting procedures and hyperbaric chamber sessions to aid in his recovery. Notably, Leno opted to forgo painkillers, viewing their use as a reminder of his mistake and a means of staying connected to his experience.
Throughout his challenging journey to recovery, Leno received overwhelming support from loved ones, including notable figures such as John Travolta, Tom Selleck, and Russell Crowe. The outpouring of affection underscored Leno’s significant impact and the depth of friendships forged throughout his illustrious career.