For decades, Jay Leno has been one of the biggest voices on late-night television.
But no matter how successful he was, the famous host always insisted that it was his wife, Mavis Leno, who supported him.
The two met in the 70s at Leno’s famous Comedy Store. He “wasn’t very good at love,” and she “thought I’d never get married,” but everything changed when their paths crossed.
The two married on November 30, 1980, which was also Jay’s parents’ wedding anniversary, and things have been going well ever since. The two chose not to have children and dedicated their lives, careers, and philanthropy to each other.
In 2024, Jay filed for guardianship after his wife was diagnosed with dementia. His wish was granted in April and he has been caring for her ever since.
“I’ve been very fortunate in my life. My wife is battling dementia and things like that, but she’s not cancer-free. She’s not a tumor, so I’m enjoying taking care of her,” he told PEOPLE earlier this month.
He echoed that sentiment on the Today show, saying, “Right now, she really needs me, and I like that. And I can see that she appreciates it. The idea of getting married, making vows, but no one ever thinks they’ll be asked to follow through on it. For better or for worse, you know that part. Even for the worst, it’s not that bad.”
As the Lenos celebrate their 45th wedding anniversary, they look back on their public appearances over the years.
At the beginning
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At Johnny Mathis’s 25th anniversary party at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in New York in 1981, the lovebirds arrived rocking ’80s-style curls.
On the move
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In this undated shot from the early ’90s, the two remained close while attending a red carpet event.
Date night at the Emmy Awards
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At the 42nd Primetime Emmy Awards in 1990, Mavis stunned in red while Jay kept it classic in a black and white tuxedo.
big celebration
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Mavis joined Jay, who was a frequent guest host for Johnny Carson, on the New Year’s Eve episode of The Tonight Show in 1990.
for a good reason
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In 1994, the Lennos were dressed in tight outfits as they walked hand in hand on the merry-go-round at the Hope Ball at the Beverly Hilton Hotel.
celebrate friends
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In 1997, the couple were snapped handling presents on their way to Carrie Fisher’s birthday party at her home in Beverly Hills.
all smile
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The couple were all smiles as they attended the 50th Primetime Emmy Awards ceremony in 1998.
The day I take my wife to work
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When Mavis visited The Tonight Show in 1999, Jay used his interviewing skills to make her laugh.
suit up
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Jay and Mavis wore matching teal suits for a night on the town in the ’90s.
lots of love
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During her 2001 appearance, Mavis gave her husband a sweet kiss during the show.
the biggest night in movies
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For the 2005 Vanity Fair Oscar Party, the couple opted for a simple look.
Oh you!
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Mavis playfully patted her husband on the chest as she made her energetic entrance to the 2009 Vanity Fair Oscar Party.
Close up
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In 2022, Jay and Mavis attended the private launch of the Meyers Manx electric car at Little Beach House Malibu.
Still the One
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The Renos, who have been together for 40 years, made a lively appearance at the 2024 premiere of Netflix’s Unfrosted.
