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 comedian, writer, and television host, best known for hosting NBC's The Tonight Show for two long tenures (1992-2009 and 2010-2014). After years performing stand-up, he took over The Tonight Show, eventually leading to a brief transition where Conan O'Brien hosted. A conflict arose when NBC proposed Leno host a show before The Tonight Show, leading to Leno's return. Beyond The Tonight Show, Leno has hosted Jay Leno's Garage and the revival of You Bet Your Life. He was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame in 2014.

Sections (5)

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

1992: Replaced Carson as Host

In 1992, Jay Leno replaced Johnny Carson as host of The Tonight Show amid controversy.

2006: Howard Stern Criticizes Leno

In 2006, Howard Stern appeared on Late Night with Conan O'Brien and said he felt it was unlikely that Jay Leno would ever willingly give up The Tonight Show.

2007: Accusations of Violating WGA Guidelines

During the 2007–08 Writers Guild of America strike, Jay Leno was accused of violating WGA guidelines by writing his own monologue for The Tonight Show.

February 2009: Answered Questions in Front of the Writers Guild of America

In February 2009, Jay Leno answered questions in front of the Writers Guild of America, West trial committee.

June 2009: Answered Questions in Front of the Writers Guild of America

In June 2009, Jay Leno answered questions in front of the Writers Guild of America, West trial committee.

2009: Criticism for Interviewing Kanye West

In 2009, Jay Leno received criticism for asking Kanye West about his recently deceased mother, Donda West, at the 2009 VMAs.

January 7, 2010: Move to 11:35 p.m. Time Slot Announced

On January 7, 2010, it was reported that beginning March 1, 2010, Jay Leno would move from his 10 p.m. weeknight time slot to 11:35 p.m.

January 22, 2010: O'Brien's Final Episode

On January 22, 2010, Conan O'Brien's final episode of The Tonight Show aired after a deal was struck for him to leave.

January 28, 2010: Oprah Winfrey Show Appearance

On January 28, 2010, Jay Leno appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show to address criticism regarding the circumstances surrounding Conan O'Brien's departure from The Tonight Show and to repair his public image.

March 1, 2010: Returned to The Tonight Show

On March 1, 2010, Jay Leno returned to hosting The Tonight Show amidst the 2010 Tonight Show conflict.

2010: Criticism for Role in Tonight Show Conflict

Jay Leno faced criticism for his perceived role in the 2010 Tonight Show conflict.

2012: Jimmy Kimmel Interview

In 2012, Jimmy Kimmel discussed his appearance on Leno's show and expressed his feelings about the Tonight Show conflict.

August 2020: Criticism for Supporting Ellen DeGeneres

In August 2020, Jay Leno faced criticism for expressing support for Ellen DeGeneres despite a workplace investigation into toxic behavior claims against producers of The Ellen DeGeneres Show.