Jay Leno recently shared a heartfelt update on his wife, Mavis, who is battling dementia. In an interview with Fox News Digital, Leno expressed his feelings of gratitude, saying he feels "very lucky in life" despite the challenges they face together.
Mavis’s condition has been a tough journey for the couple, but Leno remains committed to caring for her. He emphasized the importance of family and faith in helping them through these difficult times.
In addition to discussing his wife’s health, Leno reflected on his long-standing feud with fellow comedian Jimmy Kimmel. The rivalry began in 2010 during an episode of "The Jay Leno Show," when Kimmel made several jokes at Leno’s expense regarding a controversial situation involving "The Tonight Show" and Conan O’Brien. Leno admitted that he regretted allowing Kimmel’s comments to air without editing them out. He acknowledged that trusting Kimmel was a mistake but also recognized that it was a learning experience for him.
During the interview, Leno explained that he didn’t see Kimmel’s jabs as "good TV" for himself, as it sparked a feud that continues to this day. However, he accepted it as part of his journey in show business. He noted that while he wouldn’t have handled the situation the same way, he understands that Kimmel, as a comedian, had to do what he felt was right for his act.
The feud was rooted in a larger context, stemming from the fallout of Leno’s departure from "The Tonight Show" and O’Brien’s subsequent struggles. Kimmel, who supported O’Brien, used his platform to criticize Leno’s return to late-night television.
Despite their past conflicts, Kimmel revealed in 2017 that he and Leno had mended their relationship. A phone call after Kimmel’s son underwent emergency surgery helped bridge the gap between the two comedians. Kimmel shared that Leno reached out with kindness, which changed his perspective on their rivalry.
As Leno continues to support his wife, he also reflects on his past, both the mistakes and the lessons learned. His journey through personal challenges and public feuds illustrates the complexities of life in the spotlight.