The Biography of Jay Leno

James Henry Muir-Leno was born on April 28, 1950, in New Rochelle, New York. His father, Angelo, sold insurance, and his mother Cathryn was a housewife. Leno and his family moved to Andover, Massachusetts and he attended school there. His grades were never the best because he was too busy being the "Class Clown." A talent that would serve him well later on in life.

After high school, Leno enrolled at the Emerson College in Boston. He studied Speech Therapy. In 1973, the college graduate set his sights on California. Not to find a job to use the knowledge he had just learned. Instead, the college graduate wanted to travel to the West Coast to find work as a stand-up comedian.

Jay Leno started his new career armed with his comical talents and plenty of enthusiasm. He performed in every place he could find that had a stage. Leno became well liked because he was a "nice guy." His comedy skits weren't filled with profanities or X-rated material.

The comedian's looks also helped him stand out from the rest of the performers. Jay Leno is a handsome man with has a large, jutting chin.

In the 1980's, Jay Leno got a gig acting in Doritos television commercials. He also acted in a few movies such as "Collision Course", "American Hot Wax", and "Fun With Dick and Jane."

Leno finally did make it to "The Tonight Show" in 1977 which was hosted by Johnny Carson at that time. He made some comedy appearances there, and the experiences helped give him added exposure. He also made many appearances on the "Late Night with David Letterman" show. But, for the most part, the stand-up comedian continued to work his act in as many comedy clubs as he could find.

Finally, all the exposure paid off for Leno in 1992. In 1987, he was already filling in for Johnny Carson as the host of his show when the latter was off on vacation. But now, after doing the show for thirty years, Carson had decided to retire. Hosting "The Tonight Show" was a coveted job that David Letterman, Conan O'Brien, and many other comedians would love to have. But, because the NBC network had already started to groom Leno for the job, he was a shoo-in.

Leno became the new host of the late night television show, and he still holds that spot today. There were fears that no one could successfully replace the ever-popular Carson. And, it was also reported that David Letterman was bitter because the NBC network passed him over for the job.

However, the ratings of the late night show stayed strong. In fact, since that time, "The Tonight Show" has most always edged out "Late Night With David Letterman" in the ratings race. It's also reported that David Letterman and Jay Leno haven't spoken to each other since 1992.

Since then, Leno won an Emmy for "Outstanding Comedy, Variety or Music Series" in 1995. He also won for "Outstanding Technical Direction" in 1996. In 1997, Leno penned his autobiography titled, "Leading With My Chin" (HarperTorch).

Nowadays, of course, Jay Leno is best known as the host of "The Tonight Show." His comedy show includes a guest singer and an entertainer as well. It also includes segments such as "Jaywalking", where he goes out on the street and talks to the public, "Headliners", and more.

The popular comedian is also known for his love of antiques cars and motorcycles. He collects and restores them.

Leno has been married to his wife, Mavis Nicholson, since 1980. Their home is in Los Angeles. Mavis writes children's books and scripts. The couple have no children.