Born James Douglas Muir Leno in New Rochelle, New York on April 28, 1950, the future star of American late night TV was educated at Emerson College where he received a B.A.degree in speech therapy in 1973.

Beginning his show business career as a stand-up comic, Leno continued to hone his act with appearances in such venues as Carnegie Hall and Caesar's Palace before launching his television career in 1977, with guest shots on a variety of TV shows, including appearances on Late Night with David Letterman throughout the 1980's. A favorite of former Tonight Show host, Johnny Carson, Leno eventually took over as permanent guest host of the show in 1987, a spot he permanently won upon Carson's retirement in 1992.

The Tonight Show with Jay Leno has since garnered Emmy awards for both technical direction and for Best Comedy, continuing the legacy of quality late-night television from its earliest days first begun by former The Tonight Show hosts Steve Allen, Jack Paar and, of course, Johnny Carson.

In addition to his hosting duties and standup comedy routines (which he continues to display in front of live audiences in Las Vegas and at college campuses across America) Leno is also a published author of several humorous bestsellers including Leading with My Chin and most recently, If Roast Beef Could Fly.