For Leno, Another Big First Since Gasoline Fire

Comedian performs for the first time since his release from burn center
By Rob Quinn,  Newser Staff
Posted Nov 21, 2022 7:40 PM CST
Updated Nov 28, 2022 5:26 AM CST
Jay Leno Released From Burn Center
Jay Leno attends the Hand in Hand: A Benefit for Hurricane Harvey Relief in Los Angeles on Sept. 12, 2017.   (Photo by John Salangsang/Invision/AP, File)
UPDATE Nov 28, 2022 5:26 AM CST

Jay Leno performed for the first time since he was burned in a gasoline fire at his California garage, appearing in front of a sold-out crowd at the Comedy Magic Club in Hermosa Beach on Sunday night, ETOnline reports. The gig is a longstanding one; Leno started out practicing monologue bits there each week when he took over Tonight Show hosting duties in 1992 and has been there nearly every Sunday since. An eyewitness says Leno looked like Leno, without any "glaringly visible" burn scars. TMZ has video of Leno making jokes about the car fire "at his own expense" on his way into the club.

Nov 21, 2022 7:40 PM CST

Jay Leno has been released from a Los Angeles burn center, more than a week after he suffered serious burns in a gasoline fire at his garage. "I am pleased with Jay's progress, and I am optimistic that he will make a full recovery," Dr. Peter Grossman of the Grossman Burn Center said in a statement, per Deadline. The center said the 72-year-old former Tonight Show host will receive follow-up care for burns to his face, chest, and hands. Leno received second- and third-degree burns in the Nov. 12 fire and underwent a surgical excision and grafting procedure during his stay at the burn center, People reports.

Last week, Grossman said there was no sign of nerve damage. "Jay would like to let everyone know how thankful he is for the care he received, and is very appreciative of all of the well wishes," the center said Monday, adding that Leno is "looking forward to spending Thanksgiving with his family and friends and wishes everyone a wonderful holiday." Leno says a friend's quick thinking may have saved his life when he was sprayed with gas while fixing the fuel line 1907 White Steam Car and a spark triggered an explosion. (More Jay Leno stories.)

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