At 74, Jay Leno planning for death, leaves chunk of cash to cars

After captivating audiences for decades as the host of late-night TV, Jay Leno is now preparing for his final act. At 74 years old, Leno is making end-of-life arrangements and leaving a significant portion of his fortune to a museum dedicated to his lifelong passion for cars.

But before we dive into his plans, let’s take a journey through Leno’s remarkable career and the challenges he’s faced along the way.

From Late-Night to the Web

Following his retirement from late-night talk shows, Leno launched a web series called Jay Leno’s Garage in 2015. This series, now with over 3.7 million subscribers on YouTube, allows Leno to share his love for cars and bikes with a wider audience. It’s clear that his passion for automobiles has never wavered, even after leaving his iconic Tonight Show seat.

Overcoming Adversity

Leno’s dedication to cars almost cost him his life, not once, but twice. In November 2022, a fire broke out in his Burbank, California garage, leaving him with serious burns. Despite this setback, Leno remained resilient, stating, “I am OK. Just need a week or two to get back on my feet.” Unfortunately, only two months later, he was in a motorcycle accident that resulted in several injuries, including a broken collarbone and cracked ribs and kneecaps. Through it all, Leno’s love for cars and his enduring relationship with his wife, Mavis, have kept him going.

A Lasting Love

Mavis has been Leno’s rock for over four decades. They got married in 1980 and have faced their fair share of hardships, including Mavis’s recent dementia diagnosis. In 2024, Leno was granted a conservatorship over Mavis’s estate due to her declining condition. Despite these challenges, Leno’s unwavering support for his wife shines through. He treats her “like gold,” according to her attending neurologist, Dr. Cohen. Leno’s love for Mavis remains strong, even in the face of adversity.

Embracing the Inevitable

Realizing that “no one lives forever,” Leno is now preparing for his own death. He has made end-of-life arrangements to ensure that his and Mavis’s interests are protected. The couple intends to stay in their home for as long as possible, using their resources to provide the necessary care.

Leno plans to leave his impressive collection of automobiles and motorcycles, valued at over $52 million, to the Leno Marital Trust. Additionally, he has named the JDM Foundation as the recipient of his collection to establish a museum. Leno’s generosity extends further, as he plans to leave $7 million to Mavis’s brother and nephew.

Jay Leno’s legacy as a passionate car enthusiast will live on through his museum and the memories he has created. His devotion to his wife and his enduring love for cars serve as an inspiration to us all. As we wish Jay Leno and Mavis all the best, let’s celebrate their incredible journey together.