Jay Leno: Tireless Work Ethic Even in Tough Times

As Jay Leno becomes the center of a controversy around his prime show's failure in the ratings, leading to a possible shakeup in NBC's late-night lineup, it's easy to forget all the years of success he's had, and the deep respect he's earned in the business for his tireless work ethic as a performer.

Jay Leno put in years and years of work as a standup comic before he got to appear on TV even as a guest, then became a fill in host for Johnny Carson before taking over the Tonight Show full time. But what people may not know is he also has continued to do regular stand-up gigs throughout his tenure at the Tonight Show and during this current prime time run, keeping his chops tight as a street level comic in clubs even as he deals in more middle of the road comedy on TV. He's also known for great charity work and being a studious reader of history books and political analysis .

Jay Leno: Tireless Work Ethic Even in Tough Times
variety

A genial comedian who skewered the foibles and contradictions of everyday life in his act, Jay Leno's everyman persona and tireless work ethic - he played up to 300 shows a year - helped to earn him one of the most sacred spots in television: the replacement for Johnny Carson as host of "The Tonight Show" (NBC, 1954- ). The ascension was not without its rough patches - he found himself in the middle of a behind-the-scenes firestorm when both he and David Letterman vied for Carson's seat...

Jay Leno: Tireless Work Ethic Even in Tough Times