Jay Leno Opens Up On Taking Care Of Wife Mavis Amid Dementia Battle

Jacob BarkerApril 27, 2025, 3:57 pmNews >

Former Tonight Show host Jay Leno has shared a rare insight into the daily activities he performs for his wife, Mavis Leno, following her dementia diagnosis.

“When you get married, you take a vow,” Leno said on In Depth With Graham Bensinger podcast. “‘Will I live up to this? Or will I be a sleazy guy if something happens to my wife?’ No, I enjoy time with my wife. I go home, cook dinner for her, watch TV, and it’s OK.”

Leno has had multiple health setbacks himself, most recently falling 60 feet during a walk.

Leno, 74, noted that nothing in his marriage has changed for over 45 years, except for his wife’s dementia, and dealing with his personal health issues, he continues to tell journalists to “find the humor” in the situation to get through the pain.

“I like it, I like taking care of her. She’s a very independent woman. So I like that I’m needed. At some point in my life, I will be called upon to defend myself. I think that’s really what defines a marriage.”

Leno shared that his daily routine with Mavis, 78, now includes going through memories together on flash cards. This includes things such as dinner, family, and the time they spend together. In January 2024, Leno filed for a conservatorship over his wife following her diagnosis, stating that he wanted to execute an estate plan that includes a revocable trust and will. An April report released by Mavis’ court-appointed counsel, Ronald Ostrin, showed that her mental decline was progressing fast and often led her to talk about her parents, both of whom had passed.

Ostrin described Mavis as a “delightful person with a charming personality,” expressing a desire to vote and sharing information about her philanthropic work. She also reposed great faith and confidence in her husband, relying on him for protection and guidance. Ostrin also said that the couple’s dynamic showed a “long-term, loving, and supportive relationship” with plenty of resources to give the latter a “safe and least restrictive environment.”