Major Controversies Surrounding Jay Leno: A Detailed Timeline

Public opinion and media debates around Jay Leno—discover key moments of controversy.

Jay Leno is an American television host, comedian, and writer, best known for hosting NBC's The Tonight Show for two separate tenures (1992-2009 and 2010-2014). His career began with stand-up comedy, leading to his long run on late-night television. In 2009, he briefly hosted The Jay Leno Show in primetime. A controversial conflict with Conan O'Brien led to Leno's return to The Tonight Show in 2010. He was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame in 2014. Post-Tonight Show, Leno hosted Jay Leno's Garage (2014-2022) and the revival of You Bet Your Life (2021-2023).

Sections (5)

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

2012: Jimmy Kimmel discusses Jay Leno

In 2012, Jimmy Kimmel spoke about his experience with Jay Leno. Kimmel felt that Conan O'Brien wasn't given a fair opportunity and shared that Leno had previously shown interest in moving to ABC, potentially taking Kimmel's time slot. However, these conversations ceased after Leno stayed with NBC, leading Kimmel to believe Leno's friendliness had been insincere and a bargaining tactic.

2014: Genesis Prize Award Ceremony

During the 2014 Genesis Prize award ceremony in Jerusalem, Jay Leno made jokes about then-President Barack Obama and then-Secretary of State John Kerry, accusing Obama of trying to damage the U.S.'s relationship with Israel.

August 2020: Criticism for supporting Ellen DeGeneres

In August 2020, Jay Leno faced criticism for publicly supporting Ellen DeGeneres amidst workplace investigation into toxic behavior and sexual misconduct allegations against producers of "The Ellen DeGeneres Show".

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