Jay Leno on Will Smith: 'It wasn't the slap that bothered me'

After 20 years of hosting the Tonight Show with Jay Leno on WPTV NewsChannel 5 this philanthropist, best-selling author, and automotive collector is doing a family-friendly stand-up show at the Kravis Center on Sunday, April 16 at 8 p.m.

[@ketinq8]

It was the standing ovation that bothered me!

[@Zoetropeification]

Very much so. Some might call them lemmings.

[@dena3019]

Sheepeole

[@deebullock9284]

It was disgusting....I don't ever watch HOLLYWEIRD asinine shows but it being on KZbin, and I don't like Will Smith, never have..always seemed like there was something trying to seep out of him...now we know.....

[@cjg6364]

@BlackMamba00 I'll answer for Dee, Bullock. A toxic mixture of arrogance and stupidity - common traits of those who are "celebrated"in Hollyweird.

[@greggoreo6738]

Significantly. The standing ovatión was body language for "WE FORGIVE YOU, " but, really: so many things needed to be handled differently--- like, Chris Rock, emerging In a neck brace (worn by the pharmacist in "DOC MARTIN ") Gregg Oreo long Beach Ca

[@Twirlyhead]

The wife's reaction spurring on an otherwise laughing Will, The Slap, the shouting curses, Will's cringe inducing _apology,_ the crowd giving Will a standing ovation afterwards, the partying scenes later on, the Academy allowing him to stay *and* take the stage again. Take your pick which was the most offensive; they all were.

[@allenwayne2033]

Amen to that!

[@marilynsheffield612]

Amen!

[@Twirlyhead]

Mystery: anyone know why this comment is only now getting lots of attention and likes two months after I posted it ?

[@nathandehaan183]

Everyone has everything so twisted up and backwards. This period of time makes me sad and makes me not hopeful for the future.

[@trawlins396]

@@nathandehaan183 not "everyone". All you have to do is read comments on any of the will Smith videos to see that the majority of ppl are NOT ok with what he did.

[@grantbentley4177]

Nothing better than a performer like Jay who has reached the point in his life where he can speak his mind without having to check with someone else beforehand. Being out of the "public eye" means just being. I love it.

[@dragonrose3162]

I saw Jay live in Las Vegas years ago and met him after the show. What a nice guy and a great show. No obscenities, not politics, just straight up comedy!

[@louishumphreys5451]

Jay is always a class act.

[@HiNRGboy]

Jay is my favorite!! Such a cool guy

[@YortOK]

So I take it you're a republican

[@firebird77clonefirebird89]

There was lots to be bothered by. Why didn't security escort him out immediately? Why wasn't Mr Smith arrested, regardless of whether or not Mr Rock pressed charges? Why did he get a single bit of applause after his atrocious conduct?

[@serpentines6356]

There are a lot of very wretched problems in LA, other big cities, and elsewhere. The cops are not going to bother arresting a one punch guy if the victim isn't going press charges. There are much worse people out in our streets.

[@Drawingboredi]

People do not get arrested if the other person does not press charges. Why don't people know this.

[@phillaysheo8]

Will Smith is innocent

[@awakeandalive4248]

@@phillaysheo8 . He's a victim right 🤔 it was Jadas fault.

[@vangoodwin7335]

Has Alec Baldwin been charged with murder and attempted murder? Stick with real problems

[@sonofjay817]

The thing is, Will's facial expression as he walked back to his chair didn't show a man seeing red in a moment of blind rage. To me it looked like a man who felt justified and smug in his action, expecting the approval of the crowd. That smirk after the deed is what really bothered me and changed my opinion of him the most.

[@bertg.6056]

Yes, I thought exactly the same thing. He looked so smug and self-satisfied. The smirk was the tell.

[@wearenottogetheranymore2658]

Omg yt ppl

[@samdog1232000]

That smirk he had reminded me of a look my kids give me when they have done something wrong. A look of nervousness. I could be off but that is how I interpreted it.

[@whatyousay9816]

I agree. But both of it mattered to me. The unjustly slap AND the smugness.

[@suzycreamchez123]

I agree.

[@mgkelly3389]

I so appreciate Jay. He’s smart, down to earth, and kind. We need more like him.

[@ps.6023]

all this is how he is when you meet him ,very humble.

[@kwcars4355]

I love how he just says it as it is. Doesn’t condone but also has compassion.

[@glassontherocks]

He's being a diplomat. Hollywood is a corrupt den of evil people. Don't fall for the glam...

[@ActivateMission2ThisTimeline]

ConservativesCanTakeAjokeButTheOrherSideWillReeeeeee!😅😅😅

[@bbvenusian1960]

@@ActivateMission2ThisTimeline like dropping TWITTER now that Musk will allow freedom of speech! a nightmare for Liberals, LOL

[@changeoffocus1074]

Right it’s obviously something deeper going on with Will. His track record doesn’t equate to this. No one condones violence but it’s crazy how everyone is coming down hard on him more than ppl and systems that have consistently done worse. Ijs..

[@HappyLife-wv5ms]

I agree the yelling bothered me more.

[@shank1er]

It was the acceptance speech and smirk for me. Seems as though he was putting on a show. That's why everyone thought it was fake initially. Then after he yelled most realized it was real and then we cringed, got angry, embarrassed or whatever.

[@debbieflaherty1975]

Lupita Nyongo’s facial expressions were priceless.

[@monember2722]

gee I wonder what Chris thinks.

[@purpleimpactstrategies7417]

No the slap was unmatched but the yelling was awful n the applause n standing O was also treble

[@mich1brit2jess4]

@@purpleimpactstrategies7417 I agree

[@Trobertsdsgmach1]

“Didn’t know YOU had alopecia” jay i want you to know you are truly one of my hero’s. Thank you for the humor!

[@dystopiaisutopia]

Heroes*

[@masonl.8859]

Love Jay, I was pretty young when he replaced Johnny on the Tonight Show, and I watched and love his whole run. He’s proved himself to be a good man with a big heart. I also love his car/bike collection. Great guy.

[@onlythewise1]

he is rich it was easy to be a good guy

[@mattmiller9591]

How refreshing to hear you say this Jay!! God bless you sir and never stop being funny!!

[@evianbidet3553]

This world needs more Jay Lenos. What a great guy.

[@evianbidet3553]

@@gamerforeverrespawn1793 what?

[@amammaof2]

It’s so nice to see a celebrity who has been one for as long as Jay, who still shows gratitude and thanks the interviewer. Like….class act. Far too many stars let it go to their heads and they believe they are somehow above others.

[@Young_Dab]

There's homeless people who believe they are above others. Everybody is human we're all suspects to every characteristic even for the smallest moments.

[@hof5943]

Yea right, class act my a** - Connan

[@believeinjesus6972]

Repent to Jesus Christ “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” ‭‭Romans‬ ‭3:23-24‬ ‭NIV‬‬

[@hof5943]

@@JustTurned60 Any sane person should know by now that he talks for a living. Meaning he knows the right things to say to appear as a lovable guy cause he is a good actor. He has been doing that all his life. His real self showed up in the drama he displayed with Connan. That's the real Jay.

[@blackattack2469]

So true. A Class Act. Thank you Jay for being as balanced as you always have been. You acknowledged what good Will Smith has done yet honestly criticizing the bad & tasteless, beneath him behavior he shows that night then in compassion hope help. Yup I’m 66, grew up watching you & a Class Act & one now.

[@mikekenney8362]

Over the years that we all got to know him, I got an appreciation for Leno’s thinly veiled intellectual content. His humor is appealing, his perception is inspiring

[@trawlins396]

I never knew he was this intelligent.

[@akylrysgal6242]

As for me, Jay Leno is the only talk show host of the last 30-35 years who has a natural sense of humor. For most other comedians, humor is just a job which they have to do to make money

[@lifewithlew]

Best celebrity response I’ve seen from a comedian yet about Will Smith! 🙌🏽

[@Karakaboardriders]

absolutely 100%

[@Yaya-cl3tu]

Agreed. It felt sincere.

[@kentduryea1741]

The worst actually. The slap didn't bother him as much as that look of anger? Well of course. Leno wasn't the one feeling the pain of being assaulted smack hard in the face. What a dope.

[@pamelasmith6221]

@@kentduryea1741 Your statement is incorrect. Jay said the slap didn’t bother him as much as the obscenities. The swearing. The F bombs. Jay said he swore once and then had time to realize what he just did/said and then he swore again. Jay did NOT say the slap didn’t bother him as much as the look of anger. Lol, Chris didn’t get slapped that hard. It was a wimpy slap. Jay is not a dope. He’s absolutely correct. It wasn’t the slap but Will’s foul language that was bothersome because he obviously has some deep issues.

[@JohnCunningham-sy5ug]

@@kentduryea1741 you need to watch it again Jay is absolutely 100% correct when you speak with profanity publicly you have definitely diminished yourself. And have defecated on everyone within ear shot it is not okay to use profanity.

[@pablojunes5451]

I kinda feel like this was the most honest assessment or opinion that I've heard coming from a celebrity on the Will Smith slap. He didn't praise or defend Smith but he didn't demonize him either. He acknowledged a deep emotional "something" that was beyond the slap.

[@judiwiegel8181]

I think you nailed it...tyfs

[@hellabella8295]

Leno might not have been bothered with the slap but I GUARANTEE CHRIS ROCK WAS BOTHERED! Leno basically said that Smith is twisted up due to putting up with his wife sleeping around.. which is ABSOLUTELY NO EXCUSE FOR PHYSICALLY ATTACKING someone else.. for a lame joke.. I like Leno but other people who are disfigured with smiths behaviour are just as honest and probably braver than Leno!

[@merakislick1198]

@@hellabella8295 the way i look at it, chris got slapped, then will yelled some obscenities in front of the crowd. no it’s not ideal but i don’t find it to be that big a deal. there was plenty of full blown fights in school all the time growing up but we never tried to demonize the kids fighting for it. it happened, it’s over with, move on

[@MNskins11]

@@hellabella8295 I don’t think Leno was excusing the slap, he was just pointing out that something deeper must be going on inside Smith, based on how his negative behavior continued after the slap. Where you’d expect rational to step in to seize control over emotions.

[@clarchives]

Straight up Jay. A great host and missed as of late. Great stuff Jay. Glad you're well. All the best.

[@janemckay8705]

New respect for J.L.. This was the kindest, most reasonable response from someone in the business that I've seen.

[@elizabeths4371]

Back in the day when Jay Leno was still hosting The Tonight Show, I went to see him perform a live show here in Canada and I remember that I never laughed so hard in my life!!! AND it was ALL CLEAN! 😂

[@macshall5741]

You're very strange!

[@kenlompart9905]

I never knew he did shows in Canada, I sent him a headline and he used it on the show, it was pretty cool seeing him use a joke I sent him, where did you see him perform.

[@elizabeths4371]

@@kenlompart9905 In Vancouver B.C.

[@kenlompart9905]

@@elizabeths4371 I thought it was probably on the west coast being just up the coast from California.

[@davescott1122]

Wow, did not realize Jay had fallen on hard times if he had to work in Canada. Must have performed in an empty field or something...

[@jeannetteweaver4683]

Applause for Jay Leno on politics in comedy and his view on the Will Smith issue. Jay Leno is a Class act!

[@mikewhite4560]

Thanks CONAN.....

[@arleighburke9095]

The "class act" couldn't even bother to drag a comb across his shaggy mane before the interview. Oh that's right, part of his 'hey I'm just a regular schmuck like the rest of yas' act... He just never seems to know when to go away.

[@keithdukes5990]

Unlike Will Smith with his disgusting foul mouthed tirade after the slap:- straight out of the Ghetto!!!

[@BJETNT]

Wisdom from Jay Leno! I loved every word he said and completely agree! Most comedians I wouldn't go across the street to see but Jay Leno I would drive a few hours and pay money to see. A smart guy a hell of a comedian and as far as I've seen a decent man. I miss it tonight show because of him! And I remember Carson I'm 46.

[@CV-db6dg]

Jay's standup show was hilarious! Down to earth, not mean, just jokes that you can laugh about because you probably do the same silly things. Would definitely recommend seeing him in person.

[@frankcastle5294]

Jay does more good and kind deeds for people than most of us will ever know. He's one hell of a great man and a true American legend.

[@0XYGENgone]

Yeah like the kind deed of Giving COnan O brien a show and then taking it back because Leno's show wasnt working out and Eventually Conan quitting... Real nice deed. People are so quick to forget.

[@rileyperry3934]

@@0XYGENgone Conan is the true legend

[@Allagi22]

He certainly was a good soul and a great man when he screwed over David Letterman and Conan O'Brien. Not to mention he hoards his hundreds of millions of dollars and spends it on literally airplane hangers full of rare/luxurious cars then promotes himself helping out a stranded motorist with his own film crew as if that balances the scales. If you think Jay Leno is good and kind you need to seriously re-evaluate your moral compass.

[@humpsandbumps3976]

He was kind enough to be interviewed by some minor league news outlet.

[@trikkke11]

@@humpsandbumps3976 I'd like to work for some minor league news outlet if it involves showing off my pool in the background.

[@michaelrains2268]

Always a wonderful gentleman , Jay Lenno!

[@mananimal3644]

Michael, Jay was telling the truth about William Shantnet. A comedian made a joke about his roids. Shantner lost it and shouted from the audience, “Keep my @$$ out of your f%^*ing mouth!

[@johnfloyd2551]

Leno

[@retrobrid2784]

I don't think so

[@retrobrid2784]

@@TomokoMurakami your right , thank my china made phone

[@retrobrid2784]

So much for auto spell check

[@Sellarmusic]

Jay is always the voice of reason and common sense. A genuine guy who delivered comedy without an agenda. Miss ending my day with his always entertaining monologue.

[@koborkutya7338]

So refreshing to hear this man talking so balanced and chill. Makes me a bit more balanced and chill too. Good stuff.

[@jamesforbes2871]

Mr. Leno can always be counted on to entertain ... and tell it like it is. He's a genuinely funny guy.

[@heidigone]

I disagree.

[@1man1bike1road]

No bill hicks was right about him

[@jamesforbes2871]

@@heidigone ... You're certainly entitled to have a wrong opinion.

[@jamesforbes2871]

@@1man1bike1road ... Prove it.

[@michaelmolitor7390]

A GENTELMAN first always.

[@valariegailniessnermissval8329]

Perfectly said, “it wasn’t the slap” but what was yelled from the chair (obsentities). Glad you referenced that Mr. Leno

[@harperstacey9604]

@pamela garrison it was almost like Will Smith had a split personality. From Ms. Harper Stacey.

[@jarrettath9636]

Pray for Will. He’s still a good man despite his demons he’s sorting out. Agree with Leno 100 percent on open marriages being very toxic. I believe it’s playing into Wills issues.

[@Gravitics]

Assaulting someone is the worst obscenity

[@DarcMarc1066]

Agreed. I believe we witnessed a man totally unraveling in front of our own eyes. The language and tune was of a man who didn't know how to control himself in that moment. A complete loss of control.

[@BillsSpamMail]

Think he also pegged right that Will was dealing with the fact that he had a cheating slut for a wife. He should have taken that as an opportunity to divorce. Still should because that was still bothering him. Maybe he knows she still is.

[@GrnXnham]

Jay is the last late night TV host that I watched because I always thought he was pretty good about being fair to both sides politically. I never felt like I was being preached to or lectured or told how I was supposed to think. It was just simple comedy. I miss Jay.

[@demef758]

Amen. These days the late night "comedians" are nothing but shills for the democrat party, which automatically reduces their viewership by half. Duh! I enjoy the likes of Leno and Carson before him because they were equal opportunity in their jokes. They skewered both sides. I can laugh at that, but I won't tolerate the one-sidedness of today's late night TV shows. Puke....

[@dtna]

What you see publically is not the real Jay Leno. I've been to his museum by the airport and seen him several times at an automotive bookstore in Burbank. He is a very quiet man and very candid and honest. Almost shy.

[@VeeFoster]

Agree. I feel like I'm.being preached to when I watch Stephen Colbert or Jimmy Kimmel. Which is why I stopped watching.

[@k28888888]

Colbert is the WORST of them all, he's not even funny whatsoever.

[@VeeFoster]

@@k28888888 His show is left wing propaganda. At least Jay Leno poked fun at politicians equally.

[@j.d.1506]

After all these years the guy is still doing stand up. God bless him. Loved him for years, and still seems like a great guy.

[@kenlieck7756]

For all those years he was mostly sitting down, don't forget!

[@nikkibeacth]

@@kenlieck7756 You are mistaken. He was doing stand up and his talk show. On hiatus and weekends.

[@kenlieck7756]

@@nikkibeacth Just joking about him being seated at the Tonight Show desk. I actually saw him there in person once back when he was just guesting for Johnny!

[@JustBree716]

My daughter just came back to NY from California and saw Jay Leno driving, she was on a tour bus and he waved at them. Lol. I always liked Jay and his comedy and late night. Miss those days

[@Nan-59]

That's awesome! I miss those days, too!

[@ghidrah76]

Jay is always nice. Loved saying hi to him as he drove in many of his cars coming to the studio. Amazing guy! Seen him drive as well on Laurel Canyon once.

[@frederickrapp5396]

Anybody who came after Carson would just be another pale imitator. Johnny was the King of Late Night for 30 years. Jay had an impossible job coming after Carson.

[@JustBree716]

@@frederickrapp5396 that's an opinion. I like both. I'm more so watching johnny on you tube cause I was just a little peanut when he was on TV. Thanks for sharing your thoughts though ❤️

[@oh.....5075]

@@frederickrapp5396 not to the 80s and 90s baby's Jay is king

[@Cwgrlup]

I absolutely love and respect Jay. He is a good man and he’s spot-on about the underlying problems with Will and his marriage. Nice interview.

[@krisblunt6293]

Yeah, when he's not Indian giving jobs. He's the only comedian that didn't have the balls to call W.S. out on his punk a$$ sh!+. Oh, and D.L. Hughley.

[@delilahrainelle7158]

Well, with Jada as his wife, I’m surprised he defended her at all and over nothing!

[@zander2830]

They both just need to come out of the closet already. These beard marriages in Hollywood and politics are just so beyond sad. When people feel more comfortable living a lie than living as their true selves then you know there's been some severe traumas they simply have not dealt with. Especially when those people pass laws that hurt the very same groups they belong to but simply cannot outwardly accept (Lindsey Graham and Tom cotton) Those with heavy influence coming out would open the eyes of the very people in the conservative society that spawn these type of traumas in people and would make massive change happen - Will, Jada, Tucker Carlson, Lindsey & Tom here as well, and so so many more.

[@FoCoPuffs]

You might want to read up on what he did to Jimmy Kimmel. The only good thing that came from that is the Matt Damon joke.

[@ulriklm1]

Yeah it's not easy to love a manipulative whore wife

[@ronaldschawo8971]

Jay Leno, solid human being and great speaker of truth without controversy. Love the guy for many reasons, always has a way of making you laugh bin an uplifting way. He's a rare talent and a beautiful soul. Much respect and love my man!

[@bsixtwelve9799]

Without controversy? Lol... people still hate him for what he did to Conan

[@erth2man]

When Jay Leno talks he is one of the few people from the entertainment business that don't set off my bull$hit detector. He is in my opinion a genuine straight forward gentleman.

[@phillipkalaveras1725]

After watching the Tonight Show for over 30 years I have watched it a total of one-half time since Jay left.

[@robinreiley1828]

Jay worked hard All his life, and Still does, follows the Golden Rule and Shares his Good Fortune with the World. He is your Childhood Buddy who Made Good and never changed. Thanks Jay for being a Regular Guy who knows how Fortunate he has been.

[@gitterplayr]

Too bad he was never funny. All that hard work wasted.

[@handynothandsome261]

@@gitterplayr - *Your envy is showing, and it’s not pretty. I hope you play ‘gitter’ better than you think.* 😏

[@nathanbohn1078]

never really liked leno. had a dry humor to me. so, his good fortune is not his comedy for me. itd be his money. he can share that with me. or just gimme one of his expensive cars hes got so i can sell it. id like him then.

[@arleighburke9095]

Leno has done well pulling the wool over so many people's eyes with his 'golly gee-wizz' persona. I never bought into it myself, but I'm not very gullible. Kimmel had a wonderful 'go' at him several years ago - it was hilarious.

[@Xxmeca421xX]

Yeah the Conan situation changed my mind

[@Jinkabel]

I was, like everyone, shocked by the act of "the slap." It actually took me a little while to really absorb what I'd seen and appreciate just how horribly wrong and inexcusable it was. Shame on Will Smith. He clearly needs help, and he needs to atone for very very bad behavior. Those who rushed to his side need to examine their mindsets as well.

[@ramonsanabria1472]

That is true !

[@bigoled4929]

Nicely put mate, totally agree

[@horsesrule8568]

Get real

[@jacquelinenjeremiahcliff8440]

Know what you mean

[@teresamurphy633]

Jay is and will ALWAYS BE ONE OF MY FAVORITES, a true gentleman 🤗

[@kslinaz5668]

Jay is so down-to-earth and sensible about things. More people need to apply that kind of attitude to their everyday life.

[@slimdudeDJC]

He definitely is! I really think he got screwed over about the Tonight Show. JMO, but great to see Jay looking good these days.

[@lukemeier1853]

He pretends to be.....look up his wife and her affiliations. It's all a facade for gullible people like you.

[@albertrodriguez9665]

What's more impressive about jay is he doesn't let money corrupt him and is still be able to be a down to earth sensible person with empathy!

[@lukemeier1853]

@@albertrodriguez9665 Too bad his wife doesn't have empathy for babies. Feminism is a pagan religion to corrupt women and ultimately destroy their rights and privileges to have a family. It is stupid....that is why it is not in the Bible as a good thing, but would be if true....

[@lindalee-brown5539]

The slap was very aggressive and the abuse was very aggressive. And the standing ovation was a shock to see.

[@andariegos9466]

What he said about the divisiveness was spot on. People immediately want to know “which side” you’re on then automatically form their own opinions about you. When I watch shows or movies I just want to be entertained without politics of either side having to be a topic.

[@conanlive3784]

Same is true for sports. Keep the damn politics out of it.

[@RocStarr913]

Politics have always been part of late night talk show monologues. Johnny Carson would make fun of Ronald Reagan and his whole cabinet and any other elected official that got a lot of attention at that particular moment.

[@crkmt]

@@RocStarr913 Carson did the same with Jimmy Carter and, especially, Billy Carter.

[@angelpaige633]

disgusting hollywood trash

[@LadyhawksLairDotCom]

I try to stay away from groups these days. It helps me make up my own mind. I don't even know which political opinion I am supposed to have based on how I felt about Will Smith's slap.

[@az.shelly]

Always liked you Jay. One of very few...that don't have to swear to get a laugh! God Bless

[@Jaspur775]

I miss you on tv, I miss entertainment everywhere. Nothing is fun anymore. Always enjoy hearing you. : )

[@Bingewatchingmediacontent]

“Can we agree that open marriages don’t work.” Well said. It’s obvious that Will Smith is deeply ashamed of being cheated on by his wife very publicly, which is what happened, and is trying to play it off. It comes off as desperate. And that’s what the slap seems to mean. Thank you Jay Leno.

[@aprilgosa5779]

Media Content they do not have that kind of open marriage they were separated when she had that relationship WiIll said himself that he t hought they were over but then later they decided no divorce is not what we do we work it out it sickens me that Hollywood appplauds a divorce but not a couple working on their marriage

[@kaleok]

can we agree that it's complete hubris to to think we all agree that an open relationship can't work? It's more complex and takes solid communication, respect and trust, but I"ve seen them, in various configurations and agreements, work for decades. Gay men and bisexuals seem to do this better than hets.

[@Bingewatchingmediacontent]

@@kaleok Can we agree that straight people aren’t gay men? And I’ve even seen gay men eventually cave under the mountains of jealousy and resentment of “open” relationships, which are never as open as they claim. I’ve never seen an open relationship where one person in the relationship wasn’t actually secretly involved in a deep relationship with one of their seconds and it threatened the primary relationship.

[@VeryDavidChannel]

@@kaleok I've never seen a health open relationship. Sure, people can prop them up, and say there's is going great, but I don't know if it's as good as people would have you believe.

[@brodriguez11000]

@@VeryDavidChannel : Having one's cake and eating it too.

[@zanetusken]

What he’s saying about politics is actually how the majority feel. Everything just gets highjacked by the loudest people on social media

[@xavierdaume2757]

What should concern Americans is that there are people in a position of power who are deliberately radicalizing society in two sides....The results are already beginning to see in all aspects and places..Unfortunately we will see uncertain and worrying times in the not too distance future..

[@marksutherlandjr.2121]

They stand on there soap box in Twitter town square sucking up all the oxygen.

[@Gigi-fv9ky]

@@marksutherlandjr.2121 I agree with you, but it's not just Twitter. I have worked 3 decades in healthcare and I read the leading online healthcare journal and on too many articles there are the same radicalized people pushing the same flawed conspiracy theories over and over again in the comments sections...in a healthcare industry journal of all places. I don't think there are many places these days where we aren't inundated with that.

[@dunbarf2413]

Politics in everything is owed (not completely) in no small part to a few politicians and a POTUS instigating the last 6 years. Not completely but a huge part

[@srcastic8764]

There’s never been a greater need for a third party. We need one to fill the middle ground where most people are so we don’t always have to choose these guys from the extremes. I’d love to have that third, common sense choice.

[@fbenkautz2662]

I enjoy Jay. He is just a down to earth genuine car guy who really gets it right on automotive history and human nature.

[@sallyaguilera9694]

All my respects to you Mr. Leno. I'm a 52 year old mother of 3, my dad was an auto mechanic and I enjoy watching Jay Lenos garage. I love everything about cars from 1970 and before that. Thank you. I'll sweep your garage to to take a look at your cars and smell the inside of the cars that didn't need much work & if you are there a hello 6 ft., apart. God Bless you.

[@pijbdhfjlknol4491]

i saw jay about a million years ago, he was hysterical without a single vulgarity. it was great.

[@justpassingthrough3410]

@@DL-ep5uk He's 71 years old and looks fine for that.

[@JacoWium]

@@DL-ep5uk Maybe he's more substance than style.

[@josephnagle3852]

We all miss rodney he was a class act

[@glennduke5853]

Rodney was great, but I never had any respect for his comedy!

[@themadplotter]

He still gets no respect

[@joeblack007]

I seen the reruns with Rodney on Johnny Carson. Dude was funny as heck.

[@breakandrun70]

Always enjoyed Jay Leno, He is a straight shooter, tells it the way it is! He also treats people the way he wants to be treated. Great little video, Thanks

[@Hypercube1729]

Jay was always the best. He was #1 Night Show host and people loved him when he was on. Always had the biggest numbers. He tells the truth and is in a 'nomal one in the middle'. Most of us agree with this kind of thinking!

[@LG-wi2qu]

Jay Leno is absolutely hilarious!!!! The William Shatner bit... "Did you know I had hemorrhoids?" Natural talent at work!

[@OconByrd519]

Jay is absolutely right about politics today, we never knew Johnny Carson’s political views, or Jay’s for that matter.

[@80s_Boombox_Collector]

The big networks feel pressured to take a side in order to compete with the thousands of tiny ultra-partisan media channels and podcasts that exist now

[@Cbase125]

Johnny Carson did get political, many times, not all the time, but many times.

[@Otisbear480]

Both were political

[@williamfulgham2010]

@Nonexistent Quark The current day so called 'late night shows' are total turn offs and I'm sure they have only a small % of the audience that Carson and Leno used to have.

[@Chuckles..]

@@Cbase125 they were not mentally ill political ideologues. There's a big difference between Leno, Carson, Letterman, and the current crop of *propagandist trash.*

[@kaykay1265]

I miss Jay Leno every night on my TV till this day, and always will!!! The best guy ever on late night!!!

[@demisx]

Absolutely. The night TV has ended when Leno retired.

[@Justice4547]

Jay Leno was always a class act.

[@herculesking8054]

I felt the same way about the Will Smith incident. It was the yelling from the seat that was most disturbing.

[@DimitriosChannel]

We should be thanking Will Smith for curing COVID! Since that night no one has spoken about COVID.

[@formallyknownasjojoemc3174]

@@DimitriosChannel it'll be back. They're going to try and wear us down until we give up our liberties and they can get a firm control grip on us.

[@nandy1256]

I think the yelling wouldn't really be that disturbing if the slapping didn't occur. The yelling combined with the slapping is disturbing.

[@nandy1256]

@@DimitriosChannel How do you think will Will Smith affect COVID if he did it in 2020 or 2021?

[@samiam619]

What bothered me was he laughed at the joke…until he turned and saw his wife’s face. And then it was UH OH, I gotta do something!

[@julia11746]

Late night tv died when Jay left it. A truly good man who never resorted to filth or shaming to get a laugh. He didn't need to, he has comedic timing and material without it.

[@DalionHeartTTV]

The man did 2 years of ruthless and disgusting Monica Lewinsky jokes.

[@kirkscobey3031]

No late night rolled when Johnny Carson retired! It got worse when Letterman retired and then spasms set in when Conan got screwed over!!

[@TeriTurnmire]

Johnny was the best!

[@familiarsting4108]

@@kirkscobey3031 Colbert is better than all those guys combined.

[@Stefanie896]

Goodness your exactly correct ~I too have not watched late night since Jay left

[@lincbiggins4342]

A pure gentleman, love his podcast.

[@jacksonfraser636]

Jay Leno is the best !!!! Thank you!

[@broncodeviltexas]

Was lucky enough to go to the Tonight show once. We were impressed that Jay came out before the show and talked with the audience.

[@nahord33]

I went a few times and sat in the back once when beauty Marisa Tormei was there in red dress then second time Scott Wolf. The third time I was stopped just short of the door as a group of vip people entered. They did not fill the front seats so they let my girlfriend and I fill the remaining chairs in the front row. Got to shake hands with Jay before the show started. This was about 1996 and Nick Cage was guest. Prior to the that third show while standing outside two employees approached me and asked if I wanted to be part of the show to interact with Jay. I hesitated so they moved on to find someone else. Regret not taking the opportunity.

[@MalShakur]

@@nahord33 very cool nonetheless

[@punapeter]

ah, you impressed by celebrity?

[@nahord33]

@@MalShakur yes those were the days visiting my brother who worked in Burbank and I spent my visits riding around town on his beach cruiser bike. Went WB one day for a taping of Suddenly Susan with Brooke Shields. So much fun before all this crazy world of today.

[@Meinstein]

@@punapeter I am by some.

[@braddsn]

Leno is such a down to earth, good guy. We need more like him!

[@joeblow9850]

Agreed. 🤣👍

[@doejon9424]

Late Night With _______ (whatever clown is on) is just absolute garbage nowadays. Landfill junk. Late Night T.V died when Jay Leno retired. It's just a Trump bash fest, which gets old after 5 years. And they will hardly touch Biden, which is gold content. David Letterman wasn't too bad either but he didn't have sh@t on Jay Leno. It's all just leftwing biased propaganda nowadays. It's not even funny anymore. I'd rather watch Japanese infomercials/game shows. I'm not even exaggerating.

[@nostalgio697]

We need to be like him..

[@williamfulgham2010]

@@doejon9424 As far as voting, I have voted for------ NO TV WHATSOEVER, because it's all controlled by the 'woke' corporations such as Disney. A large percentage of the public is now DEFUNDING that stuff and I hope they go broke. If it's not on my Android phone, or if I don't hear it on talk radio, it does not get to me, and I am 77, going on 40.

[@tedmarakas2626]

What do you mean? Don't you love all those Trump hating and liberal comedians, cum dripping from the side of their mouth? Don't you love them when they come on stage with their knee pads on to satisfy and lie for the left? How can you ignore their meltdowns when all their "prediction and wishes" go up in smoke? That's some pure high quality entertainment, my friend.

[@ericwhitehead6451]

The days we could watch the news and form our own opinions are sadly long gone. Good point Leno.

[@tube396]

I've always admired both Jay Leno and Conan O'Brien very much. I knew from watching Conan's show for years before he took over the Tonight Show that his brand of comedy wouldn't appeal to the masses. He appealed more to a niche audience (including myself) who got his brand of comedy. So it was no real surprise when his ratings were low after taking over the Tonight Show. The part of this whole saga I didn't like was how Jay was treated as the bad guy that took Conan's show from him. I love Conan, however, he was the wrong choice to take over that show. Jay's brand of comedy was very appealing for the greater Tonight Show audience and unfortunately Conan's wasn't.

[@blahblah1438]

I really like this man. He has common sense.

[@budzmcspliff3013]

I met Jay Leno at a gas station in Riverside, California. He was as nice as you'd think. Once he found out I was stationed up in 29 Palms, he thanked me for my service, and started telling me how proud he is to be an American. Great guy.

[@turquoisenoise1131]

My dad was a police dispatcher for Beverly Hills PD and my dad helped him with a stalker situation after the show one night. He bought season tickets for me and my dad to enjoy the Dodgers. Best summer of my life. Memories I can't replace.

[@craighoffman6876]

Classy comment about Will Smith at the end. I met Jay once up at Newcomb's Ranch above LA back in the late 90s while riding my motorcycle. Newcombs is on the Angeles Crest, a twisty mountain road and Newcombs was/is a popular destination for gearheads to congregate. Leno showed up in a custom Blastolene Merlin V12 powered car, which was quite a sight indeed. Imagine a car powered by the same engine that was used in the P51 Mustang. No forced induction on that 27 liter engine because, well, that would just be overkill - LMAO. We all hung out and shot the breeze. Leno loves anything internal combustion, knows his stuff, and he is very down to earth. Really enjoyed my time chatting with him.

[@OneGuyOnline2]

Thanks Jay for the voice of reason. And Thanks Walker.

[@Modern_Nostalgia]

Jay Leno is a legend, and I'm honored to have enjoyed his show growing up.

[@hanfin9698]

Legend of backstabbing!

[@spartanwarrior6573]

You should lend him 10.00 for gas for one of 150,000 dollar cars if you like him so much BRO!

[@kenlompart9905]

@@hanfin9698 Bull, he had no say whether Conan kept The Tonight Show or not. He was brought back because Conan's ratings sucked, If Conans ratings were good the network would have stayed with their original plan and kept Conan on, the network are the ones that f**ked up and stabbed Conan in the back.

[@frayfletcher9641]

I was actually going through some list of people suggested for me to connect with, I saw your profile and decided to walk straight to your DM. Hope you don’t mind

[@vikkinicholson5880]

David Letterman had him on and couldn't say enough about his admiration for Jay.

[@loiscampbell3510]

Jay Leno was the BEST night time entertainer (on par with Johnny Carson). I can't stand the rest of them. He's a decent man and I'd love to see him back on television.

[@nadezhdawall-rossi2864]

NBC is terminally woke. I doubt they'd have Leno back on the Tonight Show, WHERE HE BELONGS! They'd replace Kimmel with Al Sharpton or Buttigieg.

[@mtnvalley9298]

He's on 'you bet your life w/ Jay Leno', a syndicated show.

[@dixiecyrus8136]

Jay's pretty good,but he'll never match Johnny Carson. Johnny Carson was the best, he is the type of host that all host should try to be.

[@iseeit2215]

Steven Colbert is hilarious too

[@dixiecyrus8136]

@@iseeit2215 nope, too political. A good host is not political. Johnny never engaged in politics on screen. He might poke fun at politicians but never shilled for any political views. That's what made him the best.

[@galtengodsmekaniskeverkste4230]

Jay is one of my favorite celebritys! Ha is smart, decent, and so down to earth like normal people.

[@teeski693]

He drives around LA in his cool cars and will talk to you, super friendly. Every time I saw him in his convertible I’d shout hello and he would always smile and say something funny. Never just ‘hello’, always more.

[@davelowets]

I like his position and attitude about the vehicles he has. They aren't just his possessions to gloat about, but rather he is a custodian of them. He teaches the public about the history of the automobiles he has, and realizes that he's just a caretaker of them while he's on this earth, and that hopefully they will be passed on to the next worthy caretaker when he is gone.

[@arleighburke9095]

Yes that's exactly the way I feel about my Honda Civic. I'm the custodian of it and I teach folks all about it and someday when my time on this earth is up I shall pass it on to another worthy custodian for future generations to enjoy.

[@davelowets]

@@arleighburke9095 No one is goimg to want to be the custodian of your Honda in 30 years

[@radiance65]

@@davelowets low blow. It was a joke 🙄

[@davelowets]

@@radiance65 Hey man, I drive some cars that no one will want either. No big deal. Surely, no one will ever consider my Buick Lacrosse as worthy in 30 years either.

[@aguerra1381]

Jay Leno has such a level headed and well balanced way about him.. Truly a great guy!

[@flitetym]

Jay’s the world’s best auto enthusiast. None better.

[@acuriosityshop]

Jay is the coolest celebrity I know. I always see him drive by with his cars and wave hello, and sometimes he would stop and have a chat with people on the street. Awesome guy!

[@sammie4695]

Such a likeable guy. He's so funny & down to earth. Really enjoyed watching his tonight show!

[@dimitroulak.5295]

… yes, and he has been married to the same woman since 1980.

[@3ofus135]

I always enjoyed watching Jay on The Tonight Show.

[@rolandpotter479]

@@dimitroulak.5295 Who refused to have his children!!

[@dimitroulak.5295]

@@rolandpotter479 : that was her own personal choice. Had nothing to do with her husband. Even from childhood she stated never wanting kids.

[@victoriasmith2630]

That rates a “nonya bizness!”. if he married her knowing that, not your problem.she isn’t having your kids either!

[@Fishermang709]

Very smart guy and wonderful entertainer. He doesn’t get caught up in all the politics. Love that !

[@gitterplayr]

Never liked him. He’s a 3rd rate comic.

[@arleighburke9095]

He was an incredible suck up to NBC. Almost as funny as Bob Hope - and that ain't a compliment.

[@billsimms2511]

Just think how much better the late night talk shows were back then. Leno and Lettermsn were worlds better than lame guys like Fallon and Colbert

[@annakochkin7693]

Love Leno! My ultimate fav late night talk show host of all time! Handsome, kind, hilarious! And love that map behind JL. Beautiful

[@annmariemarin5513]

How refreshing. Thanks, Jay.

[@markdezii]

Loved Jays down to earth responses. Class act.

[@donnadimanna9173]

Class act is right

[@josephgreen2824]

Hero worshiping 101

[@Sarah-rb1js]

I love love love you Jay Leno We need you to come back to us .

[@demisx]

Absolutely love Jay. ❤️

[@stefanreiman3527]

Jay you are the Man always loved ya as a late night host

[@patriciaburns1033]

If Jada Pinkett Smith hasn't got the wit or intelligence to get Chris Rocks jokes then that's hair loss.

[@Michael.1776]

😉 😆

[@jenzen9041]

I'm behind Chris Rock all the way. But if any comedian deserves to be slapped, it's Jay Leno. He constantly picked the low hanging fruit of making fun of the looks of certain women for cheap laughs.

[@mccubbinaerial6000]

OMFG... some much of the same banter .. I ALMOST MISSED THIS LITTLE GEM! Ummm okay gonna fire up the circuit and crank out a shirt or two , If that's original let me know id be happy to add the such a wonderful word smith (oh I just did it too.. word-"Smith) lol. to it so you can get the credit deserving of a great great line... Thanks for that Patricia totally made my day like 1000% better...

[@rodrodk2111]

She damaged her scalp & hair to get a lot of film money. She didn’t suddenly lose hair.

[@googleuser868]

Will got her a live bunny 🐰 for Easter. She wanted more hare

[@Stefanie896]

This is precisely why I have always loved Jay Leno ~why can’t Hollywood “get it” why ratings are so low ~ people watch for entertainment not for them to use an awards ceremony for their personal or political views.

[@BakewithAmy]

You’re exactly right and then all the TV shows put in the pandemic and I’m thinking you think we’re watching TV to see more of this? No we watched to escape our lives during the pandemic?

[@brendatanner1259]

They think they don't have a choice, if they want to keep working.

[@elizabethkajet5501]

I agree completely. It's such a turn off when they stars are so arrogant that they will risk loosing half their audience by thinking care what they say or think about politics

[@billsimms2511]

Because Hollywood thinks they are much better and smarter than you - they think they know what’s best for you .. I despise Hollywood at this point

[@billsimms2511]

@@brendatanner1259 there is truth to this - Hollywood is in such an echo chamber that they think everyone wants this political nonsense

[@n.b.p.davenport7066]

He looks real excited about this interview

[@MimiZ914]

He's one of the rare great comedians that had integrity. Love ya man.

[@Sweetmangotango]

Didn't he screw over Conan?

[@axelsharpshire6457]

One of the very very very very few people who have a ounce of common sense in the industry.

[@BBD40]

Very true

[@kebas239]

Don't worry. Will Smith will never live this down. It's turned him into a living meme and will probably be what alot of people will remember him for.

[@alanmorris7669]

Quite frankly, he should've gone to jail.

[@Hammersch]

@@alanmorris7669 indeed! He actually slapped someone in the face on world TV! its an assault!

[@kimberlydlapp3441]

I think he'll survive

[@Hammersch]

@@kimberlydlapp3441 its not about that! it sends wrong signals to the society

[@alisonfraser8231]

Yeah, but what is this media culture where we, the public, have a stake in this? Chris Rock was assaulted. He reacted as he chose, or felt was best. I mean, if somebody had a heart attack on stage, would the world be talking about it for weeks like it has cultural significance? All of this “what should be done” business is ridiculous. Unless you pay taxes to that particular police department, are a producer on the show, or have the bruise on your face, you have no stake in a remedy. However, when people exploit their personal lives down to the last hair on their head (sorry) they open the door. Who created the conditions here? Keep blaming social media. It’s not the media. It’s the money. I know a lot of poor people on social media and we don’t have these problems.

[@scarletbegonias2359]

I like Jay, he's old enough, successful enough, retired enough to be blatantly honest. He's a good dude no matter how you slice it.

[@manstersr]

I love Jay, have followed him from when he first showed up on the national comedy scene (long before he got a late night show himself) because I liked his comedy. Now I love him because he is a down to earth car guy (even though he's extremely wealthy) and actually a decent mechanic. He's also is a human automotive encyclopedia. He's forgotten more about the automotive industry than most ever knew. I've been in the trade for 45 yrs. and blown away by the stuff he knows. Keep on driving Jay. I hope to see you when you come to my city on your tour. Did everyone notice how gracious he was thanking the interviewer for taking the time to interview him? That speaks volumes. Most celebrities feel like they are doing people a favor by granting them an interview.

[@britishamerican4321]

I love "Jay's Garage" and I'm not even a car person. He's so passionate and knowledgeable about his subject, he makes me interested in it too.

[@hope7144]

I like how Jay Leno is leaving politics OUT of his shows!

[@atodaso1668]

Its only the past 15 years that politics has invaded everything. It used to be isolated, now its everywhere.

[@l6202]

I wasn’t just the slap,it was the smile Will. Smith had on his face as he walked away from a stunned Chris Rock. Chris Rock showed a tremendous amount of class.

[@cas4040]

Exactly. That smug smile and the “swagger”.

[@bobbys4327]

@@cas4040 yeah, like he had just done something great, something other than alienating 85% of his audience.

[@frayfletcher9641]

Hello,sorry for the random approach but I was going through your profile and I saw that you are an ambitious and intellectual individual with a large network which gives me the knowledge to know that you're open minded to look for a new way of generating an income.

[@cpl8168]

Smith thought there was an opportunity for him to earn brownie points with his wife, or political-correctness points for being a loyal, protective, loving husband, or to raise his public adoration rating, or whatever. And it backfired on him big time. He made a public fool of himself.

[@frayfletcher9641]

I was actually going through some list of people suggested for me to connect with, I saw your profile and decided to walk straight to your DM. Hope you don’t mind

[@gerryjamesedwards1227]

Jay Leno, a Stand-Up comic who is also a stand-up guy.

[@balerjohnson3099]

Jay is a pretty smart guy on many levels . I am a car and motorcycle guy like Jay and millions of others but also he has never failed to make me laugh and I always enjoy hearing him speak on the Jay leno garage shows ..he gives a lot of information in detail on each and every machine he has ..love to hear Jay any time

[@spkelse8677]

The guy interviewing Leno has a great smile.

[@ek2156]

Great interview! Jay Leno is about as down to earth, nice guy that you can find in Hollywood. You can see that his fame has not gone to his head, and he is still just someone trying to make people laugh. Mad respect for him!

[@thisguyhere6641]

Yeah, Jay Leno is as funny as funny can get!

[@johnroff9869]

.....and that's all in your head

[@Oliver-tp2sd]

is this sarcastic?

[@thehigherdrake]

Oliver lmao 🤣 that's what i was wondering did everyone forget what Jay did to Conan? 😂

[@Smorgasbord.]

@@thehigherdrake Yes and the fact that comedians who know him best weren't surprised. I remember an interview where one guy said "That's the Jay I know" meaning, he's always been a backstabbing a*.

[@FreeSpokenOne]

You are my kind of people Jay Leno, common sense, easy going, unobtrusive and kind hearted.

[@kimlersue]

Jay Leno is the quintessential example of good comedy, done by a good person!! Our whole family misses hime very much! Open marriage is a contradiction in terms. Thanks Jay..I hope they do too.

[@suecastillo4056]

I love Jay Leno… he’s so funny! He’s a great comedian♥️☮️

[@flagmichael]

My favorite monologue segment was about a gang-banger at a party who wanted to show off his sawed off shotgun. As he pulled it out of the front of his trousers the shotgun discharged!!!! Jay was quick to assure us he was not harmed, but mused, "Which is worse? Firing a shotgun down the front of your pants or not hitting anything?"