Jay Leno missed a recent appearance due to a “serious medical emergency.” The former Tonight Show host, 72, was scheduled to perform at a financial conference in Las Vegas Sunday night but couldn’t attend due to a health issue, according to an email to Forum 2022 attendees from The Financial Brand, according to People.
“His family was not able to provide us very many details, but there was a very serious medical emergency that is preventing Jay from traveling,” the email stated. “All we know is that he is alive, so our prayers go out to him and his family tonight.”
TMZ broke the story about what actually happened to Leno saying that “he was working on his 1907 White Steam Car in his famed garage this past Saturday, fixing a clogged fuel line. He says there was a fuel leak and gasoline sprayed on his face and hands. Almost simultaneously a spark triggered an explosion, setting the comedian on fire.”
According to USA Today, Leno is receiving treatment after a gasoline accident left him with third-degree burns.
Aimee Bennett, the director of strategic communications at the West Hills Hospital & Medical Center in Los Angeles, said in a statement to USA TODAY Monday that the comedian “wants everyone to know that he is in stable condition” at Grossman Burn Center following the accident, which occurred in his garage over the weekend.
“He is in good humor and is touched by all the inquiries into his condition and well wishes,” Bennett continued. “He wants to let everyone know he is doing well and is in ‘the best burn center in the United States.’ “
The comedian, 72, said in a statement to USA TODAY that he suffered “serious burns from a gasoline fire.”
“I am ok. Just need a week or two to get back on my feet,” he said.
Outlets have reported that Leno’s burns are significant but that he is alive today because of a close friend who quickly rushed to put him out. Leno told TMZ that his buddy Dave was right there and jumped on him, quickly smothering the flames.
It’s unconfirmed how extensive Leno’s injuries are but I have seen reports claiming that his eye and ears were not damaged but that he will likely need skin graphs.
Erica Carlin is an independent journalist, opinion writer and contributor to several news and opinion sources. She is based in Georgia.