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Jay Leno | Source: Getty Images
Jay Leno | Source: Getty Images

'OMG': Jay Leno, 74, Sparks Concern After Appearing with a 'Nasty Bruise on His Face' at a Comedy Gig

Christell Fatima M. Tudtud
Nov 19, 2024
11:04 P.M.

Just a few years after recovering from severe burns, veteran TV host and comedian Jay Leno stepped out with an unpolished look, sparking fresh health concerns.

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Jay Leno didn't let his latest mishap dampen his trademark humor. Spotted recently in public with an eye patch and a bandaged wrist, his unexpected appearance left social media users both concerned and puzzled.

A netizen's reaction to Jay Leno's injury, posted in November 2024 | Source: Facebook.com/Inside.Edition/reels

A netizen's reaction to Jay Leno's injury, posted in November 2024 | Source: Facebook.com/Inside.Edition/reels

The 74-year-old comedian revealed to TMZ that his injuries resulted from a fall near his hilltop hotel. He chose a shortcut down a slope to save time instead of taking the longer, winding path to satisfy his hunger.

"I said, 'Where's a good place to eat?' 'Oh, the bottom.'So I went out. The restaurant was there, but to get to it, I didn't have a car, so I had to go to walk about a mile and a half around," Jay explained. He assumed the hill wasn't too steep, but the risky shortcut ended in a tumble, leaving him bruised and swollen on the left side of his face.

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Jay Leno shows his black eye under the eye patch, posted on November 19, 2024 | Source: Instagram.com/tmz_tv

Jay Leno shows his black eye under the eye patch, posted on November 19, 2024 | Source: Instagram.com/tmz_tv

Despite the injuries, Jay refused to alter his schedule. Over the weekend, he performed for thousands at the Yaamava Casino in Southern California, postponing medical attention until after the show.

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By Monday night, November 13, Jay was back onstage at the Comedy for Koby event, still showing visible swelling, a wrist wrap, and his trademark wit.

Netizens who saw Jay's injured appearance shared their reactions on social media. "That's a nasty bruise on his face he's lucky he wasn't hurt worse," one user commented. Another echoed a similar sentiment, "Omg...poor guy. Can he catch a break already?? Wishing him a speedy recovery [sic]."

Jay Leno on "The Tonight Show" on February 6, 2014 | Source: Getty Images

Jay Leno on "The Tonight Show" on February 6, 2014 | Source: Getty Images

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Others speculated about his condition and urged caution, "He's not that old - it seems like there's some other issue going on - that bruise looks bad, hope he's taking better care when he's out." Meanwhile, another sent well-wishes, "Praying for Jay Leno and his Wife [sic]."

Jay and Mavis Leno at the premiere of "Jay Leno's Garage" in New York City on October 7, 2015 | Source: Getty Images

Jay and Mavis Leno at the premiere of "Jay Leno's Garage" in New York City on October 7, 2015 | Source: Getty Images

More netizens reacted to Jay's latest mishap with a mix of humor and admiration. Some noted he is "accident prone," while others suggested he retire or find creative ways to protect himself.

A netizen's comment on Jay Leno's injury, posted on November 19, 2024 | Source: Instagram.com/tmz_tv

A netizen's comment on Jay Leno's injury, posted on November 19, 2024 | Source: Instagram.com/tmz_tv

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While some sympathized with the challenges he has faced, others celebrated his adventurous spirit, calling him a "true daredevil" and commending his determination to recover and keep going, even in his 70s.

This latest mishap adds to a series of health challenges for the beloved entertainer. In November 2022, Jay suffered severe burns in a gasoline fire while working on a steam car in his garage. Gasoline sprayed onto him, igniting and burning his face and hands.

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He received treatment at the Grossman Burn Center, where he assured fans of his recovery and praised the facility as "the best burn center in the United States." The incident forced him to cancel appearances, including a Las Vegas event and a comedy show in Burbank.

Health challenges, however, are nothing new for Jay. In 2019, he revealed his battle with high cholesterol, which he managed through medication, lifestyle changes, and a portable EKG device. Using his passion for cars as a metaphor, Jay compared cholesterol blockages to clogged fuel lines, urging others to prioritize preventative care.

Jay Leno visits the SiriusXM Hollywood Studios in Los Angeles, California on October 9, 2019 | Source: Getty Images

Jay Leno visits the SiriusXM Hollywood Studios in Los Angeles, California on October 9, 2019 | Source: Getty Images

In 2009, Jay was hospitalized for severe exhaustion. At the time, his demanding schedule included writing for multiple publications, performing standup comedy over 160 days a year, and managing other professional commitments.

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Jay Leno performs at the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, New Jersey, on May 30, 2009 | Source: Getty Images

Jay Leno performs at the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, New Jersey, on May 30, 2009 | Source: Getty Images

Reflecting on the experience, Jay called exhaustion a "rich person’s problem," but the incident highlighted how his tireless work ethic had taken a toll on his health.

Despite Jay's own health challenges, his resilience has also been tested as he supports his wife, Mavis, through her battle with dementia—a struggle that recently led to a conservatorship.

Mavis Leno attends the Feminist Majority's 25th Anniversary and Ms. Magazine's 40th Anniversary Celebration in Beverly Hills, California, on May 1, 2012 | Source: Getty Images

Mavis Leno attends the Feminist Majority's 25th Anniversary and Ms. Magazine's 40th Anniversary Celebration in Beverly Hills, California, on May 1, 2012 | Source: Getty Images

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In April 2024, Page Six obtained documents showing that Mavis's court-appointed counsel, Ronald Ostrin, disclosed her ongoing health decline. Reportedly, Mavis "sometimes does not know her husband […] nor her date of birth."

Mavis Leno attends the Adopt-A-Minefield benefit in Century City, California, on September 18, 2002 | Source: Getty Images

Mavis Leno attends the Adopt-A-Minefield benefit in Century City, California, on September 18, 2002 | Source: Getty Images

Despite her diagnosis of "advanced dementia," Mavis maintains good spirits. Mavis maintained good spirits. Her neurologist, Dr. Hart Cohen, reported that the 77-year-old experienced significant disorientation and often reminisced about her deceased parents.

Amid Mavis's cognitive impairment, Ronald described her as personable and communicative. "She expressed a desire to vote and told me a little about her philanthropic work," Ronald said.

Mavis Leno attends the 13th Annual Global Women's Rights Awards in Beverly Hills, California, on May 21, 2018 | Source: Getty Images

Mavis Leno attends the 13th Annual Global Women's Rights Awards in Beverly Hills, California, on May 21, 2018 | Source: Getty Images

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Ronald noted that she relied on Jay for protection and guidance, emphasizing the enduring affection and support that defined their long-standing relationship. The court-appointed counsel also highlighted the couple's deep bond, which continued to be a cornerstone of their life together.

Mavis and Jay Leno attend the Fifth Annual Adopt-A-Minefield Gala in Beverly Hills on November 15, 2005 | Source: Getty Images

Mavis and Jay Leno attend the Fifth Annual Adopt-A-Minefield Gala in Beverly Hills on November 15, 2005 | Source: Getty Images

Ronald remarked, "Ms. Leno seemed very happy in their cozy environment." He further clarified that Mavis had not only consented to his conservatorship filing but had also actively supported and desired it.

Mavis and Jay Leno at the 17th Carousel of Hope Ball VIP Room, Beverly Hills, California, October 28, 2006 | Source: Getty Images

Mavis and Jay Leno at the 17th Carousel of Hope Ball VIP Room, Beverly Hills, California, October 28, 2006 | Source: Getty Images

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After Mavis's diagnosis became public, the pair stepped out together, presenting a united front despite the challenges they faced.

The media captured the couple reportedly holding hands while attending Jay's weekly show at the Comedy & Magic Club in Hermosa Beach, California. At one point, Jay waved at the paparazzi, and Mavis chatted with a friend who accompanied them.

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Jay made several public appearances early this year, often without Mavis. In January, he was seen at a Los Angeles airport, where the "Jay Leno's Garage" star looked somber while meeting with a few people, according to a news outlet.

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In that same month, Jay was spotted again and provided an update on Mavis' health. While sitting in the driver's seat of his luxury vintage car, the loving husband disclosed, "She's fine, everybody's good, we're doing well. I just set up a will, in case something happens."

Jay Leno spotted in Los Angeles, California on October 18, 2023 | Source: Getty Images

Jay Leno spotted in Los Angeles, California on October 18, 2023 | Source: Getty Images

Jay Leno, who has been married to Mavis for over 40 years, gave a thumbs-up to the cameras before driving away with friends, a gesture that reflected his enduring positivity even amid challenges.

Mavis and Jay Leno arrive at the 2009 Vanity Fair Oscar Party in West Hollywood, California, on February 22, 2009 | Source: Getty Images

Mavis and Jay Leno arrive at the 2009 Vanity Fair Oscar Party in West Hollywood, California, on February 22, 2009 | Source: Getty Images

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The couple's love story began in the 1970s when they first crossed paths at the renowned Comedy Store in West Hollywood. They exchanged vows in 1980 and have shared a remarkable bond ever since.

Jay and Mavis Leno at the Kennedy Center's Mark Twain Prize For Americacn Humor event in Washington, D.C. on October 19, 2014 | Source: Getty Images

Jay and Mavis Leno at the Kennedy Center's Mark Twain Prize For Americacn Humor event in Washington, D.C. on October 19, 2014 | Source: Getty Images

It's worth noting that they made a conscious decision not to have children, a choice for which Mavis takes full credit. At 77, she is four years Jay's senior, a testament to their enduring love.

Jay and Mavis Leno at the private unveiling of the Meyers Manx electric car in Malibu, California, on August 8, 2022 | Source: Getty Images

Jay and Mavis Leno at the private unveiling of the Meyers Manx electric car in Malibu, California, on August 8, 2022 | Source: Getty Images

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Reflecting on the secret to their enduring marriage, Jay humorously quipped, "Not screwing around is a huge key. You can do a lot. You can leave your underwear on the doorknob for the rest of your life if you don't screw around."

Mavis and Jay Leno leave a comedy show in Los Angeles, California, on September 7, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

Mavis and Jay Leno leave a comedy show in Los Angeles, California, on September 7, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

However, he also shared a deeper insight, advising others, "Marry your conscience. Marry someone who's the person you wish you could be, and it works out okay."

Mavis and Jay Leno attend Netflix's "Unfrosted" premiere in Los Angeles, California, on April 30, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

Mavis and Jay Leno attend Netflix's "Unfrosted" premiere in Los Angeles, California, on April 30, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

Despite these setbacks, Jay's resilience remains clear. Whether recovering from burns, managing chronic conditions, or supporting his wife through her illness, Jay continues to push forward, solidifying his legacy as one of the entertainment industry's most enduring figures.

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