Jay Leno Cherishes Time Caring for Wife with Dementia

As of November 2025, comedian Jay Leno, 75, has been caring for his wife Mavis, who was diagnosed with advanced dementia in April 2024. Leno spoke about their situation at the 34th Annual Love Ride event, dispelling the misconception that caring for Mavis is "work."

"I've been very lucky in my life. My wife is fighting dementia and all that, but it's not cancer. It's not a tumor, so I enjoy taking care of her," Leno says. He acknowledges that the next couple of years will be "tricky," but maintains a positive outlook, saying, "It's not terrible. I'm not a woe-is-me person. I'm just lucky that I am able to take care of her."

Leno emphasizes that he and Mavis "have fun with it" and he cherishes the time they spend together. The former late-night host is grateful to be in a financial position that allows him to provide for Mavis' medical needs. "I'm very lucky," he says. "As soon as this ride's over, I'm going home and I'll make her lunch."