Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Jay Leno

Discover the career path of Jay Leno, from the first major opportunity to industry-changing achievements.

Jay Leno is an American comedian, writer, and television host, best known for hosting NBC's The Tonight Show for two long stints: from 1992 to 2009, and again from 2010 to 2014 after the brief Conan O'Brien era. He also hosted The Jay Leno Show in primetime and later hosted Jay Leno's Garage from 2014 to 2022, followed by a revival of You Bet Your Life. He was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame in 2014, solidifying his impact on the entertainment industry.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

1985: Grand Marshal for the Love Ride

Since 1985, Jay Leno has been the Grand Marshal for the Love Ride, a motorcycle charity event.

2001: Donation to Feminist Majority Foundation

In 2001, Jay Leno and his wife donated $100,000 to the Feminist Majority Foundation's campaign to stop gender apartheid in Afghanistan.

2001: Love Ride Benefiting 9/11 Recovery

In 2001, the Love Ride, where Jay Leno is the Grand Marshal, raised money for the September 11 attacks recovery.

2005: Reported Earnings in 2005

In 2005, it was reported that Jay Leno earned $32 million.

2009: Donation to Salem State College Scholarship Fund

In 2009, Jay Leno donated $100,000 to a scholarship fund at Salem State College (now Salem State University) in honor of Lennie Sogoloff.

January 28, 2010: Appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show

On January 28, 2010, Jay Leno appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show in an attempt to repair damage to his public image.

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2011: Garage Used for L.A. Noire Development

In 2011, Jay Leno opened his garage to Team Bondi, the company that developed the 2011 video game L.A. Noire, to help create accurate images of cars from the late 1940s.

August 2012: Auction of Fiat 500 for Charity

In August 2012, Jay Leno auctioned his Fiat 500 for $385,000, with all proceeds going to a charity that helps wounded war veterans recover by providing them with temporary housing.