I write this story in the comments every time I see Jay Leno on something. I worked as a security guard at a fine arts museum. They opened this brand new exhibit called Speed. All of these historical cars , land speed records, etc. Jay was invited to speak at the opening. Black tie affair, very fancy. I was assigned to cover Jay and get whatever he needed. Jay shows up in his classic Canadian tuxedo, with a garment bag with his tux in it. I show him and his guy to a small green room. We were given strict instructions not to talk to him don’t ask for autographs, etc. we are professionals. Taking everything seriously. Jay comes straight up to me, once we’re in the green room. Shook my hand, good hand shake. What’s your name kid, family, how’s things going? Nicest guy in the world. He noticed our boss was a little uptight. So boss leaves the green room, he immediately was like “ ouch, he’s a hard ass”. So funny. Jay sat and chat with me a no name regular hardworking guy, for 30 mins before his opening remarks. I will never forget it.
That’s a good story. He’s just Jay,same with all people,kind and has humility. Obviously, at least on this video , Howie has lost his normal guy characteristics, and replaced them with name dropping, pieces of furniture he can brag about having. The contrast between the two is huge!
Great story. Few have that much mega success staying humble and true to who they always were. I’ve worked along side some absurd egos in the film industry with sycophants falling all over them. Then others are completely down to earth and cool like Tom Hanks.
I'd love to see Jay, Conan and Craig Ferguson all here live together on Howie! Make it happen Howster!! And you know what I love about Jackelyn is that she knows when to shut the heck up and let others talk and then come in where necessary, noone can be perfect but she has really good timing and patience unlike other guest hosts who constantly cut off,interupt the guests. One day I bet she'll have her own successful podcast but Howie's still the comedic star of this show. He has a great way of making funny comments from what guests say. I hope he lets Jackelyn grow
Leno's the most loyal & finest man in the History of Show business. He won't even complain about NBC Executives. Thank you for your twenty-two years of The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.
@@USALeonHeart The fact that even though he was #1 in the ratings and making them all kinds of money, *NBC* still made a deal with Conan that was deciding Jay's retirement date- and didn't consult him either. They told him he was out in 2009 because that's when they figured he'd no longer be #1. Jay sure proved them wrong there.
Yes! Jay is right. People don’t generally like listening to extremely wealthy overpaid people complain about how they’ve been wronged. I swear, most of those people are so out of touch with reality that they just will never get it. Jay gets it
Denzel Washington understands that. Washington was asked on a talk show if it bothered him that some white actors are paid a lot more than he is. He responded that people don't want to hear someone who is paid as much as he is, for doing what he does, complain about being underpaid.
...he could have just left NBC. He was also complaining about getting screwed. In the end, he promised to step down and he didn't. He's great at cars but he's an asshole when it comes to late night. Overrated.
Conan😢😢😢 sickening with his non-stop whining being such an extremely wealthy man. Leno had much more class. And then Conan turns around and screws over George Lopez in the same way he cried Leno did to him.
I've watched maybe 80% of Jay's garage series in the past few years (being a car guy myself) - and have always been impressed with not only how knowledgeable and passionate he is about vehicles, but his down-to-earth personality. This was a great interview and love the chemistry between Jay and Howie. As a fellow Canadian always liked Howie over the years as well...a great comedian.
same here...but I always thought they wouldn't have given Jay back the show if it wasn't the right business decision regardless of who was sticking who.
This interview/chat was cathartic for me as well as Howie. Very great interview (even though Howie interrupted). Jay Leno is the epitome of magnanimous grace. Amazing man!
Howie's daughter "You just cut Jay off to take him(Jay) through how he(Jay) thought of that?!" The concept of "keeping quiet and letting the guest on the show do the the talking" is quite alien to Howie.
Jay was on fire on the early Letterman show, and the late night wars were really a gift back then. I liked Jay but was a big Dave fan, my dad loved Jay's show after Johnny left, then my little brother got hooked on Conan. We were lucky to have all three shows, all drama aside.
Every time I see a geniue interview with Jay, I am more and more impressed. Jay is the anti-Kardashian! No bs, no drama, just straight forward, honest and hard working.
My wife and I saw Jay in Louisville back some time ago. He was the funniest guy that I’ve ever seen! Our ribs were sore the next morning. He’s so real. What you see is what you get!
Conan and Dave were both dramatic little babies about it. When they didn't get their way, they accused Jay of wronging them. When Conan forced Jay out and then failed, Jay didn't go on an anti-Conan campaign like Conan did to him.
I love hearing Jay Leno saying he is not gonna make somebody love him and that is what I need to hear today in my life now my whole thing I need is to see Jay's calm and mannerism and attitude as a valuable model for how I should be because I am the opposite and suffering pain for it. I will look at this way Jay is because people still love him immensely despite the haters and "suits".
Are you doing better at it? We all want to be liked and loved. It is why criticism and rejection hurts so much. But as you said Jay is calm. He is comfortable in his own skin.
There is a great quote from Eleanor Roosevelt I remind myself of any time I am faced with anything that could cause me emotional discomfort of any kind: "Refuse to be offended" It is simple, powerful advice. Over the years, since I first began to apply it in my day to day life, heeding it's message has brought a peace, joy and success that had previously escaped me. I'm sure it will do the same for you.
I met Jay after a 1985, 2 hour stand up performance at the Philly Academy of Music. There was a huge snow storm, and talk it might be cancelled. Only half the people showed up, and he had the house lights turned on 5 minutes in. Everybody come down here, or at least get closer like were family, and we did. 5 standing ovations, that sounded like the house was packed! He shook everyone's hand afterwards, and thanked them for coming out. He saw my Indian Motorcycle jacket, and we talked about Dad's bike. The Greatest. The biggest surprise, the crowd gasping when he dropped an F bomb. lol! Please Lord, Heal my friend. Our friend James.
Took my then 9 year old son to see Jay at Lipscomb University, 2002. Driving home, we looked at each other and said, "does your face hurt from laughing?". Jay is a master at his chosen craft, INDEED! We love Jay Leno!
I went to the filming of tonight show at two different occasions in the late 90s. He did all the warm up in his jeans outfit, then came out in a suit. He was so good!!! His warm up was funnier than the show itself
With regards to Craig Ferguson, easily the most underrated talk show at the time. The reason he did well by the end was because he was pure entertainment. Even his guests all said he was their favorite. Over Jay and over Letterman. He was one of a kind.
Craig ferguson is probably the most charismatic person to ever host a talk show. His show was so good that i still have a hard time believing it isnt on anymore
@@alanvallazza9781 Craig was also the only late night host to stay out of the drama between Conan and Jay, unlike Kimmel and Dave. He understood Jay's side of the deal and felt what Kimmel and Dave were doing was unprofessional.
Jay is still one of the best crowd work comedians I’ve ever seen, a genuinely funny and gracious human being. Saw him in the early 80’s in Chicago filming “American Dream” and before show we ended up next to each other in the bathroom urinals. Jay just started making funny remarks and we’re laughing hysterically, such a great memory.
Grew up watching Jay on the Tonight Show back when I was a kid in the 90's. Always liked him. One of the few I'd like to meet. Seems really down to earth and kind. Thanks for Iron Jay, Beyondo and Jay Walking. Thanks for all the good memories.
OMG 😱 I TOTALLY FOR GOT ABOUT JAYWALKING THEY WERE THE FUNNY'S MINS. OF THE SHOW . AFTER ALL I HAD JAY IN MY BEDROOM FOR YEARS and Always made me laugh 😂😀. BRAVO JAY 👏👏👏👏👍💕.
Great interview, stuff we've never heard from Jay. Agree with him that the general public doesn't want to hear multi-millionaires complaining about time slots or other inside stuff. Saw Jay a few years ago at Hermosa Beach Comedy & Magic club.....25 bucks to see a legend in a small venue. Was incredible. Appreciate how he just put his head down and didn't whine during the Letterman and later Conan stuff. Imagine taking over for an icon like Carson? Not an easy task and he was successful.
@@theodorewood5083 Letterman and Conan did that themselves, they both were arrogant as they were talented - they don't know how to take NO as an answer. There's a reason why Letterman never got past #2 compared to Jay, and why Conan's ratings were bad on both NBC and TBS. Their humor is best suited for Late Night, not 11:35 - they don't know how to translate the late-night humor into Tonight Show humor. That's why Fallon, as much as I like him, is not having a good time in the ratings. People have an expectation; the old fans expect the same humor and style on the tonight show - but it never happens. Jay was brought in, just like Stephen was brought in - and they were fresh new faces.
@@bryfii What glue are you sniffing? Leno played dirty pool. Letterman got ownership out of it. Conan got a HUGE payout because of it. All he had to do was just not be on TV for a few years. Letterman was far better than Leno. As far as late night. Pandering does not equal greatness. Carson, Letterman, Furguson, is the natural evolution of late night. Leno birthed the current crop of adverts in suits.
Jay also said on Adam Carolla's show recently that he took a 50% pay cut (from 30 Million a year to 15 Million a year) just to keep his crew employed and he never touched the money. He made his living from Stand Up and thats what he used to live on
I’ve never had the pleasure of meeting him but he just comes across as authentic humble and kind. It’s nice to see someone so successful in his industry with such humanity! Thank you Mr. Leno!
I love Howie’s heart. Everyone needs a freind like that. He is becoming one of my favorite people. With his comedy and his personality, very mental health conscious too.
First time I've seen this. Years ago, I came by and did some work at your house and met your family. I got the sense at the time your daughter would grow up to be what she is now. Good job Howie! I remember she had lots of stuffed animals and it was adorable.
I didn’t know all of this was going on. But I always watched The tonight show with Jay. I thought he was the best. Come to find out he is. Thanks Howie for telling the story.
I hope Conan sees this. I love Howie, and how much he has Jay's back knowing the truth behind the scandal. He's such a good guy. I also have renewed respect of Jay; he does seem like a genuinely nice guy, very smart, very funny. btw ... I am a huge Conan fan, so no hate toward Conan either.
Jay is 100% correct, nobody wants to hear a wealthy/successful celebrity complain. To be as wealthy as Jay and to be as normal as Jay is a real testament to who Jay was before he was successful. Because money always makes you more of what you already are.
This was such a refreshing interview, it's the first time someone has come out and said the actual truth of what happened with the "Late Night Wars". Jay remained a class act through it all.
Carson visited Letterman's show on CBS a number of times after he retired. He never visited Jay Leno on The Tonight Show. Carson wanted Letterman to be his replacement.
@@dirktyler3643 It's true that Carson would've preferred it be Dave, but it's immaterial because naming a replacement wasn't Johnny's decision to make. *NBC* owns "The Tonight Show," and they didn't think Dave was very easy to get along with.
Great podcast.! Great guest.! Thank you Howie for sharing some of these behind the scenes things that went on. I respect Jay even more now, knowing and understanding what happened.
Wow! Seeing this for the first time I was floored by Howies excellent interview of JayLeno and the different perspective revealed on the Late-night wars! After all this time! I love Jay Leno!
Wow, this is an amazing video. I've had a negative image of Jay Leno since the whole late show war stuff. My image him has completely reversed. Thanks to Howie for bringing this all out.
Jay Leno is such a class act......Thank you Howie for having him discuss this. Jay Leno is right no one wants to hear someone complain when they make so much money. Jay would be a guy you may see on the sidewalk talking to someone and not know it's him. He is so down to earth
Always loved Jay. He just seems like a normal guy who happens to be famous, not a famous guy who's trying to be normal. Wish him a full recovery from his burns :(
Always thought Leno was a cool guy, but was a huge Letterman fan back in the day and also liked Conan as well. When the "late night wars" started and Jay started getting bad mouthed, it struck me as odd, but I took Letterman's side because he was by far my favourite. A few years ago, after they had both retired from their respective shows, I'd watch them give interviews, see Jay on his car show and both of them on Seinfeld's comedians in cars show, etc. etc., and began to realize I had it all wrong and that Dave was a bit of an ass. I mean there are worse people in the world, but I've lost quite a bit of respect for him (and Conan) for their pissy attitude towards Jay back then. Conversely, for a showbiz heavyweight I think Jay is as solid as they come. And that was even before watching this podcast. Well done Howie. Canada proud, pal!
I think this was the best one yet. Jay does have a better outlook on how to deal with the games people play, every night and every day now, never saying what mean, never meaning what they say.
Wow this was absolutely great, even wonderful, and clarifying. It has only increased my respect for these two hard-working talented men, Leno and Mandell.
Yea but, it was brought to a screeching halt several times by Howies daughter! I hate to say that because she seems like an absolutely delightful young woman, but she adds nothing of value to the show. I cannot figure out why she is on these podcasts.
@@kidwave1 I disagree. Her laughing and great sense of humor kinda represents an audience laughing but isn't there, otherwise it would be alot of silence after Howie's jokes. It's why she's Howie's favorite - cuz she laughs at his jokes when no one else does haha.
That story of Letterman refusing to give a show executive a couple of tickets for his kids is very telling. Letterman shot himself in the foot and didn’t realize it.
Even people who worked with Dave have said he didn't maintain a cordial relationship with the very people who were choosing Carson's successor. That's on Dave, not Jay.
Good to know yet again my intuition tells me right. I never liked Letterman, always felt like something was disingenuous, arrogant and snobbish about him.
Man, it's so encouraging to see someone take the high road, not engage and things work out for him. There is a lot of pressure to fight back, revenge, hustle everyone etc I don't think he knows that that's not very common.
Thank you for explaining the details behind the Conan Jay and Letterman controversy. I have never heard the story from Jays perspective. It all makes sense now.
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤ JAY'S WIFE AND JAY ARE THE MOST INSPIRING COUPLE EVER TO. COME FROM HOLLYWOOD. HE CONTINUES TO BE A FAITHFUL HUSBAND, A HUMBLE HUMAN BEING, AN AMAZING SOURCE OF LOCAL HISTORY, A TIRELESS PERFORMER, AND FUN AS HELL.
As a big fan of Conan and someone who bought into this late night war stuff. I went from really disliking Jay to actually coming around and liking him through his shows like Jay Leno's Garage and interviews throughout the years. So I gotta say I apologize mr. Leno for judging you unfairly. And I really think Jay and Conan should patch things up again and clear all that animosity. Life is short you know, just think of how many comics we lost in the last few years, Norm McDonald, Betty White, Bob Saget, Robin Williams and more. It would be nice for a change to see something positive in the comedy world lately. I think a Conan remote episode with Jay would break all the ratings. Can you imagine? In terms of laugher It would probably top Jordan Schlansky in Italy. haha
Judging by the recent CNN series about the history of late night, I don't get the impression Conan has mellowed much about it- or come to accept his own culpability in the "Tonight Show debacle." It would be nice, though, if they did do something like that because in spite of that tangled mess 12 years ago both guys still did pretty well for themselves.
I decided to prepare for watching this one at the right time, in the right place, and with just the right cup of coffee. The stars aligned for me and it was worth every minute. Brilliant work on this one.
Leno is and will always be the rightful heir to the Tonight Show. Conan is funny but at the same time just didn't connect with audiences the way Leno did. Letterman is an arrogant, entitled, overly political jerk that was jealous of Jay beating him in the ratings for 20+ years. Leno & Seinfeld are modern day legends and two of the hardest working guys in comedy as both still do standup around the country. Love Leno.
Howie, thank you for this amazing interview. You did awesome! I still prefer Jay with his Garage videos than Fallon and all the others together. This guy would’ve been #1 for another 20 years.
The reason Jay does not defend himself and basically does not care it’s my belief that he is just very happy with his life. He has a passion for cars like no other and his and he is also amazing in comedy, has a great job. He has no time for others hating him, writing negatively about him, basically he has no time for anything negative. His life life is way to good for him to bother with others who dislike him.
I think comedians have wonderful insecurities. Conan has his tendency to self deprecate. Dave has his tendency to condescend. Jay's tendency I think is to attract and unite. Jay never said a rude word to NBC. Never.
I met Jay Leno a few years back. He's one of the most genuine, good guys out there, and for Hollywood, that's a rare breed. I suspected all the crap said about him were lies but this awesome interview confirmed that. Thanks for doing this interview. It was therapeutic for me as well as I had argued with my friends about the real Jay Leno.
Thank you Howie for having Jay Leno on, your daughter's adorable. I appreciate the story being told because the confusion and the the he said she said was just crazy. I didn't understand it so trying to clear the air with a beautiful thing for me, as well as Howie Mandel. So thank you this was a great segment❤❤
STUMBLED UPON THIS PODCAST AND KEEP WATCHING IT OVER AND OVER BECAUSE I ENJOY JAY'S OUTLOOK ON EVERYTHING. I READ HIS AUTOBIO "LEADING WITH MY CHIN" IN THE 90'S AND LAUGHED SO HARD AT EVERY PAGE THAT I LITERALLY WOULD HOLD MY EYELIDS OPEN WITH MY FINGERS TO BE ABLE TO KEEP READING! I'M GOING TO BUY ANOTHER COPY TO READ IT AGAIN! HE IS WONDERFUL IN EVERYWAY B/C HE CAME FROM A HARD WORKING MIDDLE CLASS FAMILY, NO THRILLS, NO SPOILING, HUMBLE MORALS AND WORKING ETHICS - PERFECT!
Jay is one of the finest human beings around in our times, a model to all of us, integrity, human values, just a wonderful person, a great comedian, and probably internationally the most important car expert and collector
Tell Lou that I liked his comment a couple episodes back about making plans for Nigel, it’s one of my favorite songs! Let me tell you, if Lou ran for president I would vote for him, he is one of the most cultured people I have ever listened to. I really love the podcast, keep doing what you’re doing!
OMG!!!!! Howie told my husband it was your fault i didn't have dinner ready. Told you that you were my 2nd podcast i have ever watched. I just don't like them, but you've got me hooked. I've been on this podcast for 3hrs straight holy snap!!! You are good no BS and i love that you and your daughter don't care if you have a queston that your guest might be uncomfortable with you ask it, and i love it!, it's up to them if they want to answer or not. You and your daughter make a great team, and if you start slacking im going to call you on it.
I’m so glad to hear the real truth behind that Tonight Show debacle that NBC created between Jay & Conan. Also, the way Jay takes the high road over the crap spewed by Howard Stern really made my day. Great job Howie, you are a great interviewer. ❤️✌️😎
Carson visited Letterman's show on CBS a number of times after he retired. He never visited Jay Leno on The Tonight Show. Carson wanted Letterman to be his replacement.
If you read Bill Carter's two late night books, especially "The Late Night Wars," you'll get a better more full picture. And it shows how NBC, in trying to retain its finances in late night, screwed both artists. The thing Jay gets that Conan doesn't is that's how networks work. It's why you protect yourself with times lot guarantees if you're doing a nightly broadcast 1135 pm show. Or a play or pay deal. Or, in Leno's case, he had a pay and play deal. He knew NBC wouldn't play fair. Conan wasn't naive, I'd say he was a bit ignorant. And because he didn't have his people fight for certain guarantees (like a timeslot in a contract), NBC was able to meddle. In 2010, I always figured it was NBCs fault for that whole mess. It was stupidly crazy on their end.
I write this story in the comments every time I see Jay Leno on something. I worked as a security guard at a fine arts museum. They opened this brand new exhibit called Speed. All of these historical cars , land speed records, etc. Jay was invited to speak at the opening. Black tie affair, very fancy. I was assigned to cover Jay and get whatever he needed. Jay shows up in his classic Canadian tuxedo, with a garment bag with his tux in it. I show him and his guy to a small green room. We were given strict instructions not to talk to him don’t ask for autographs, etc. we are professionals. Taking everything seriously. Jay comes straight up to me, once we’re in the green room. Shook my hand, good hand shake. What’s your name kid, family, how’s things going? Nicest guy in the world. He noticed our boss was a little uptight. So boss leaves the green room, he immediately was like “ ouch, he’s a hard ass”. So funny. Jay sat and chat with me a no name regular hardworking guy, for 30 mins before his opening remarks. I will never forget it.
Awesome story
That’s a good story. He’s just Jay,same with all people,kind and has humility. Obviously, at least on this video , Howie has lost his normal guy characteristics, and replaced them with name dropping, pieces of furniture he can brag about having. The contrast between the two is huge!
Many such stories about Jay. Glad to hear another one ☝️
Jay is top notch. Been nice since I met him 34 years ago. Never once have I seen him off kilter. Thanks for sharing. Thanks Howie for sharing too!
Great story. Few have that much mega success staying humble and true to who they always were. I’ve worked along side some absurd egos in the film industry with sycophants falling all over them. Then others are completely down to earth and cool like Tom Hanks.
I met Jay Leno once, I am a nobody and he invited me into his shop and treated me like a friend. I will never forget that day. God bless you Jay !!!
Awesome
Me to?
You are not a nobody
@@shable1436 thank you
I'd love to see Jay, Conan and Craig Ferguson all here live together on Howie! Make it happen Howster!! And you know what I love about Jackelyn is that she knows when to shut the heck up and let others talk and then come in where necessary, noone can be perfect but she has really good timing and patience unlike other guest hosts who constantly cut off,interupt the guests. One day I bet she'll have her own successful podcast but Howie's still the comedic star of this show. He has a great way of making funny comments from what guests say. I hope he lets Jackelyn grow
I love how humble Jay is. I wish more people in the entertainment industry had the same kind of respect for people who work with their hands.
Leno's the most loyal & finest man in the History of Show business. He won't even complain about NBC Executives. Thank you for your twenty-two years of The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.
The hell would he have to complain about?
@@USALeonHeart The fact that even though he was #1 in the ratings and making them all kinds of money, *NBC* still made a deal with Conan that was deciding Jay's retirement date- and didn't consult him either. They told him he was out in 2009 because that's when they figured he'd no longer be #1. Jay sure proved them wrong there.
Yes! Jay is right. People don’t generally like listening to extremely wealthy overpaid people complain about how they’ve been wronged. I swear, most of those people are so out of touch with reality that they just will never get it. Jay gets it
Cona'ns fans would disagree. Conan snowed them with his BS.
Denzel Washington understands that. Washington was asked on a talk show if it bothered him that some white actors are paid a lot more than he is. He responded that people don't want to hear someone who is paid as much as he is, for doing what he does, complain about being underpaid.
...he could have just left NBC. He was also complaining about getting screwed. In the end, he promised to step down and he didn't. He's great at cars but he's an asshole when it comes to late night. Overrated.
Conan😢😢😢 sickening with his non-stop whining being such an extremely wealthy man. Leno had much more class. And then Conan turns around and screws over George Lopez in the same way he cried Leno did to him.
Did none of you watch any of the interviews where Jay complained incessantly that he was wronged and screwed? Gimme a break.
Leno is a brilliant businessman. That's why he's been around for so long.
I've watched maybe 80% of Jay's garage series in the past few years (being a car guy myself) - and have always been impressed with not only how knowledgeable and passionate he is about vehicles, but his down-to-earth personality. This was a great interview and love the chemistry between Jay and Howie. As a fellow Canadian always liked Howie over the years as well...a great comedian.
Jay knows what is important in life. He knows when to stand and fight and what to let go of.
Thank you Howie for getting this story out because my opinion of Jay just did a 180’ I apologize for my ignorance, awesome podcast team!!
There is no ignorance here. Conan and NBC spun things knowing Jay wouldn't stand up for himself.
same here
At this point Who knows what the truth is ya know
Jay Leno is no angel, don't kid yourself.
same here...but I always thought they wouldn't have given Jay back the show if it wasn't the right business decision regardless of who was sticking who.
This interview/chat was cathartic for me as well as Howie. Very great interview (even though Howie interrupted). Jay Leno is the epitome of magnanimous grace. Amazing man!
The crazy thing is that if NBC gave Jay The Tonight Show today he would probably be #1 again.
Yes, possibly so. But even Jay concedes his time is passed. He and Dave are of another time.
Howie's daughter "You just cut Jay off to take him(Jay) through how he(Jay) thought of that?!" The concept of "keeping quiet and letting the guest on the show do the the talking" is quite alien to Howie.
Jay was on fire on the early Letterman show, and the late night wars were really a gift back then. I liked Jay but was a big Dave fan, my dad loved Jay's show after Johnny left, then my little brother got hooked on Conan. We were lucky to have all three shows, all drama aside.
It was great everybody had their favourite but could watch any and laugh and enjoy it
Jay is such a huge part of late night comedy. Love hearing his stories
Somehow, I never thought he was funny.
You dont get his comedy and thats cool. I never thought Seinfeld was funny.@@93Jubilee
Jay WAS,,,, a huge part.
I love hearing the history of American Comedy. Only he can tell it.
Every time I see a geniue interview with Jay, I am more and more impressed. Jay is the anti-Kardashian! No bs, no drama, just straight forward, honest and hard working.
Jay is so down to earth. Love Jay's Garage great show
My wife and I saw Jay in Louisville back some time ago. He was the funniest guy that I’ve ever seen! Our ribs were sore the next morning. He’s so real. What you see is what you get!
I like Jay, Dave, and Conan. I never understood why people thought you had to choose one. They're all funny and I watched their late night shows.
I agree JJ! Well said.
I think the networks and Jimmy Kimmel push the division. All three of them got extremely rich and famous.
For every one of you, there are 9 people that herd up into teams
Because Dave and Conan pushed it. They were the ones who were all about "us vs them".
Conan and Dave were both dramatic little babies about it. When they didn't get their way, they accused Jay of wronging them. When Conan forced Jay out and then failed, Jay didn't go on an anti-Conan campaign like Conan did to him.
Great heart-felt interview by Howie. Love how his daughter keeps him honest so to speak 👍👍
I love hearing Jay Leno saying he is not gonna make somebody love him and that is what I need to hear today in my life now my whole thing I need is to see Jay's calm and mannerism and attitude as a valuable model for how I should be because I am the opposite and suffering pain for it. I will look at this way Jay is because people still love him immensely despite the haters and "suits".
Are you doing better at it? We all want to be liked and loved. It is why criticism and rejection hurts so much. But as you said Jay is calm. He is comfortable in his own skin.
There is a great quote from Eleanor Roosevelt I remind myself of any time I am faced with anything that could cause me emotional discomfort of any kind:
"Refuse to be offended" It is simple, powerful advice. Over the years, since I first began to apply it in my day to day life, heeding it's message has brought a peace, joy and success that had previously escaped me. I'm sure it will do the same for you.
I met Jay after a 1985, 2 hour stand up performance at the Philly Academy of Music.
There was a huge snow storm, and talk it might be cancelled.
Only half the people showed up, and he had the house lights turned on 5 minutes in.
Everybody come down here, or at least get closer like were family, and we did.
5 standing ovations, that sounded like the house was packed!
He shook everyone's hand afterwards, and thanked them for coming out.
He saw my Indian Motorcycle jacket, and we talked about Dad's bike.
The Greatest.
The biggest surprise, the crowd gasping when he dropped an F bomb. lol!
Please Lord, Heal my friend. Our friend James.
Took my then 9 year old son to see Jay at Lipscomb University, 2002.
Driving home, we looked at each other and said, "does your face hurt from laughing?".
Jay is a master at his chosen craft, INDEED!
We love Jay Leno!
I went to the filming of tonight show at two different occasions in the late 90s. He did all the warm up in his jeans outfit, then came out in a suit. He was so good!!! His warm up was funnier than the show itself
With regards to Craig Ferguson, easily the most underrated talk show at the time. The reason he did well by the end was because he was pure entertainment. Even his guests all said he was their favorite. Over Jay and over Letterman. He was one of a kind.
Jay appeared on Ferugson and vice versa. Both left the same year in 2014 but Jay in February and Craig in December.
Craig ferguson is probably the most charismatic person to ever host a talk show. His show was so good that i still have a hard time believing it isnt on anymore
@@alanvallazza9781 Craig was also the only late night host to stay out of the drama between Conan and Jay, unlike Kimmel and Dave. He understood Jay's side of the deal and felt what Kimmel and Dave were doing was unprofessional.
Ferguson was cringe-worthy and stale. Terrible late night host, one of the worst.
Won a Peabody for his interview with Bishop Tutu. Read "Ode to a Haggis" and did the carving and serving at the premiere of 'Brave.' Genuine guy.
GREW UP STAYING UP LATE TO WATCH JAY LENOS MONOLOGUES SO ME AND MY GRANDPA COULD TALK AND LAUGH ABOUT THEM THE NEXT DAY. MY ABSOLUTE FAVORITE!!!
Jay is so above it all, I love it.
Jay is still one of the best crowd work comedians I’ve ever seen, a genuinely funny and gracious human being. Saw him in the early 80’s in Chicago filming “American Dream” and before show we ended up next to each other in the bathroom urinals. Jay just started making funny remarks and we’re laughing hysterically, such a great memory.
Grew up watching Jay on the Tonight Show back when I was a kid in the 90's. Always liked him. One of the few I'd like to meet. Seems really down to earth and kind. Thanks for Iron Jay, Beyondo and Jay Walking. Thanks for all the good memories.
Iron Jay! 👍
OMG 😱 I TOTALLY FOR GOT ABOUT JAYWALKING THEY WERE THE FUNNY'S MINS. OF THE SHOW . AFTER ALL I HAD JAY IN MY BEDROOM FOR YEARS and Always made me laugh 😂😀. BRAVO JAY 👏👏👏👏👍💕.
Great interview, stuff we've never heard from Jay. Agree with him that the general public doesn't want to hear multi-millionaires complaining about time slots or other inside stuff. Saw Jay a few years ago at Hermosa Beach Comedy & Magic club.....25 bucks to see a legend in a small venue. Was incredible. Appreciate how he just put his head down and didn't whine during the Letterman and later Conan stuff. Imagine taking over for an icon like Carson? Not an easy task and he was successful.
Yeah, easy to say when you are the guy tanking peoples careers.
@@theodorewood5083 Letterman and Conan did that themselves, they both were arrogant as they were talented - they don't know how to take NO as an answer. There's a reason why Letterman never got past #2 compared to Jay, and why Conan's ratings were bad on both NBC and TBS. Their humor is best suited for Late Night, not 11:35 - they don't know how to translate the late-night humor into Tonight Show humor. That's why Fallon, as much as I like him, is not having a good time in the ratings. People have an expectation; the old fans expect the same humor and style on the tonight show - but it never happens. Jay was brought in, just like Stephen was brought in - and they were fresh new faces.
@@bryfii What glue are you sniffing? Leno played dirty pool. Letterman got ownership out of it. Conan got a HUGE payout because of it. All he had to do was just not be on TV for a few years. Letterman was far better than Leno. As far as late night. Pandering does not equal greatness. Carson, Letterman, Furguson, is the natural evolution of late night. Leno birthed the current crop of adverts in suits.
Jay also said on Adam Carolla's show recently that he took a 50% pay cut (from 30 Million a year to 15 Million a year) just to keep his crew employed and he never touched the money.
He made his living from Stand Up and thats what he used to live on
Letterman and Conan need to grow up. Leno handled it like Carson would.
I’ve never had the pleasure of meeting him but he just comes across as authentic humble and kind.
It’s nice to see someone so successful in his industry with such humanity! Thank you Mr. Leno!
I love Howie’s heart. Everyone needs a freind like that. He is becoming one of my favorite people. With his comedy and his personality, very mental health conscious too.
I never knew how 100% Leno is. Dang, he's a very simple, honest guy!
I'm impressed by Howie and his daughter. This is a good show.
To this day I still miss the Tonight Show it was the best part of my late evenings.Leno is the best.
Howie is so proud about his Tonight Show memorabilia and Jay couldn't give two shits. Funny.
First time I've seen this. Years ago, I came by and did some work at your house and met your family. I got the sense at the time your daughter would grow up to be what she is now. Good job Howie! I remember she had lots of stuffed animals and it was adorable.
Jay is the rare comic who can do one show for the 55 year olds and an entirely different show for the 25 year olds. A comedy hero and a good dude!
And West or East Coast, Chicago style, for Midwest christian farmers to Hollywood.
Jay understands people and modifies his show accordingly.
I didn’t know all of this was going on. But I always watched The tonight show with Jay. I thought he was the best. Come to find out he is. Thanks Howie for telling the story.
Thank you Howie for a great interview with Jay Leno Jay Leno is a very humble person.....
I hope Conan sees this. I love Howie, and how much he has Jay's back knowing the truth behind the scandal. He's such a good guy. I also have renewed respect of Jay; he does seem like a genuinely nice guy, very smart, very funny. btw ... I am a huge Conan fan, so no hate toward Conan either.
Jay is 100% correct, nobody wants to hear a wealthy/successful celebrity complain. To be as wealthy as Jay and to be as normal as Jay is a real testament to who Jay was before he was successful. Because money always makes you more of what you already are.
What a great interview. I really enjoyed listening to Jay's philosophy of life, and his attitude about contentment.
This was such a refreshing interview, it's the first time someone has come out and said the actual truth of what happened with the "Late Night Wars". Jay remained a class act through it all.
The book that was written about this backs Jay up. So, this isn't really the first time.
Carson visited Letterman's show on CBS a number of times after he retired. He never visited Jay Leno on The Tonight Show. Carson wanted Letterman to be his replacement.
@@dirktyler3643 It's true that Carson would've preferred it be Dave, but it's immaterial because naming a replacement wasn't Johnny's decision to make. *NBC* owns "The Tonight Show," and they didn't think Dave was very easy to get along with.
I'm glad I watched this. Good to get Jay's real side of the story.
Agreed!
Great podcast.! Great guest.! Thank you Howie for sharing some of these behind the scenes things that went on. I respect Jay even more now, knowing and understanding what happened.
Wow! Seeing this for the first time I was floored by Howies excellent interview of JayLeno and the different perspective revealed on the Late-night wars! After all this time! I love Jay Leno!
The combination of howie not giving a single f*#! And his influence to pull these guests makes for a incredible podcast. And Jackie’s glowing as usual
I couldn't hear what you were saying, too much slurping going on.
@@fredinalaska sure thing freddy
She’s gross to look at lol
@@nickgray6305 wow are you a loser.
Wow, this is an amazing video. I've had a negative image of Jay Leno since the whole late show war stuff. My image him has completely reversed. Thanks to Howie for bringing this all out.
Jay Leno is such a class act......Thank you Howie for having him discuss this. Jay Leno is right no one wants to hear someone complain when they make so much money. Jay would be a guy you may see on the sidewalk talking to someone and not know it's him. He is so down to earth
Just beautiful, this has been very fun to just sit in and listen to an amazing conversation. Thank you very very much. I had a blast!
Love the reverence that Howie has for his peer - not only for his career, but Leno’s character. And car collection. I wouldn’t let Howie drive.
Never explain -Never complain! We love you Jay
Howie is an example of a great friend. A friend who would defend you...
Nice and I love it 💐💕
Thank you Howie for defending Jay. I would love to meet him. He seems like a generally honest and decent human being. Keep up the good work.
Rare people on this industry
Always loved Jay. He just seems like a normal guy who happens to be famous, not a famous guy who's trying to be normal.
Wish him a full recovery from his burns :(
Jay Leno has always been a class act! Love this podcast!
I love this show. We are getting the inside scoop of the industry. You don't here this anywhere else!
Always thought Leno was a cool guy, but was a huge Letterman fan back in the day and also liked Conan as well. When the "late night wars" started and Jay started getting bad mouthed, it struck me as odd, but I took Letterman's side because he was by far my favourite. A few years ago, after they had both retired from their respective shows, I'd watch them give interviews, see Jay on his car show and both of them on Seinfeld's comedians in cars show, etc. etc., and began to realize I had it all wrong and that Dave was a bit of an ass. I mean there are worse people in the world, but I've lost quite a bit of respect for him (and Conan) for their pissy attitude towards Jay back then. Conversely, for a showbiz heavyweight I think Jay is as solid as they come. And that was even before watching this podcast. Well done Howie. Canada proud, pal!
I wish Howie would have made it clear that Jay didn't really want to retire
I think this was the best one yet. Jay does have a better outlook on how to deal with the games people play, every night and every day now, never saying what mean, never meaning what they say.
Thanks Jay for being Jay Leno. You're a class act.
Thanks Howie for having kids that get to see the goofyness that is
Howie doinstuff~
Wow this was absolutely great, even wonderful, and clarifying. It has
only increased my respect for these two hard-working talented men, Leno and Mandell.
Holy shit, an actual podcast without being ruined by lou. Lol
I was going to watch because I didn't see lou,
Glad I saw this comment, came to see if they got rid of Lou yet and I'll actually stick around now
Yea but, it was brought to a screeching halt several times by Howies daughter! I hate to say that because she seems like an absolutely delightful young woman, but she adds nothing of value to the show. I cannot figure out why she is on these podcasts.
He brought nothing to the take. Nothing
@@kidwave1 I disagree. Her laughing and great sense of humor kinda represents an audience laughing but isn't there, otherwise it would be alot of silence after Howie's jokes. It's why she's Howie's favorite - cuz she laughs at his jokes when no one else does haha.
This is the first time I have ever really heard this explained! Thank you Howie
Right? If the story Jay just revealed @ 15:11 is true, ...then DAVE DID THAT TO HIMSELF! ...and it really changes a lot about how I feel about Jay.
That story of Letterman refusing to give a show executive a couple of tickets for his kids is very telling. Letterman shot himself in the foot and didn’t realize it.
Even people who worked with Dave have said he didn't maintain a cordial relationship with the very people who were choosing Carson's successor. That's on Dave, not Jay.
Good to know yet again my intuition tells me right. I never liked Letterman, always felt like something was disingenuous, arrogant and snobbish about him.
Thanks!
This was great. I love these stories. Jay is so chill. I wish I can have his attitude
Man, it's so encouraging to see someone take the high road, not engage and things work out for him. There is a lot of pressure to fight back, revenge, hustle everyone etc
I don't think he knows that that's not very common.
Thank you for explaining the details behind the Conan Jay and Letterman controversy. I have never heard the story from Jays perspective. It all makes sense now.
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
JAY'S WIFE AND JAY ARE THE MOST INSPIRING COUPLE EVER TO. COME FROM HOLLYWOOD. HE CONTINUES TO BE A FAITHFUL HUSBAND, A HUMBLE HUMAN BEING, AN AMAZING SOURCE OF LOCAL HISTORY, A TIRELESS PERFORMER, AND FUN AS HELL.
God bless Mavis Leno, as she enters this difficult juncture in her life.
As a big fan of Conan and someone who bought into this late night war stuff. I went from really disliking Jay to actually coming around and liking him through his shows like Jay Leno's Garage and interviews throughout the years. So I gotta say I apologize mr. Leno for judging you unfairly.
And I really think Jay and Conan should patch things up again and clear all that animosity. Life is short you know, just think of how many comics we lost in the last few years, Norm McDonald, Betty White, Bob Saget, Robin Williams and more. It would be nice for a change to see something positive in the comedy world lately.
I think a Conan remote episode with Jay would break all the ratings. Can you imagine? In terms of laugher It would probably top Jordan Schlansky in Italy. haha
Judging by the recent CNN series about the history of late night, I don't get the impression Conan has mellowed much about it- or come to accept his own culpability in the "Tonight Show debacle." It would be nice, though, if they did do something like that because in spite of that tangled mess 12 years ago both guys still did pretty well for themselves.
Jay doesn't hold a grudge
Jay’s car show is what he should’ve been doing all along, he’s really in his element on that show.
I decided to prepare for watching this one at the right time, in the right place, and with just the right cup of coffee. The stars aligned for me and it was worth every minute. Brilliant work on this one.
Thank you hawie for giving jay and us the chance to hear the truth
Leno is and will always be the rightful heir to the Tonight Show. Conan is funny but at the same time just didn't connect with audiences the way Leno did. Letterman is an arrogant, entitled, overly political jerk that was jealous of Jay beating him in the ratings for 20+ years. Leno & Seinfeld are modern day legends and two of the hardest working guys in comedy as both still do standup around the country. Love Leno.
Howie, thank you for this amazing interview. You did awesome! I still prefer Jay with his Garage videos than Fallon and all the others together. This guy would’ve been #1 for another 20 years.
I have never been much of a fan of either Jay's or Dave's late night monologs. I am now a fan of Jay Leno the man.
That was great. I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it.
The reason Jay does not defend himself and basically does not care it’s my belief that he is just very happy with his life. He has a passion for cars like no other and his and he is also amazing in comedy, has a great job. He has no time for others hating him, writing negatively about him, basically he has no time for anything negative. His life life is way to good for him to bother with others who dislike him.
This makes me think soooooo much of Jay Leno. What a stand up guy. No pun intended. 😂❤
I think comedians have wonderful insecurities. Conan has his tendency to self deprecate. Dave has his tendency to condescend. Jay's tendency I think is to attract and unite. Jay never said a rude word to NBC. Never.
Well, up until today I´ve taken David´s side, I didn´t know Jay´s side.
Today I´m Jay´s fan. Thank you for opening to Howie the way you did.
I met Jay Leno a few years back. He's one of the most genuine, good guys out there, and for Hollywood, that's a rare breed. I suspected all the crap said about him were lies but this awesome interview confirmed that. Thanks for doing this interview. It was therapeutic for me as well as I had argued with my friends about the real Jay Leno.
Love that from Jay, "on second thought about coming to my garage." 🤣
What a great episode! Love seeing Leno talking about himself for a change
Thank you Howie for having Jay Leno on, your daughter's adorable. I appreciate the story being told because the confusion and the the he said she said was just crazy. I didn't understand it so trying to clear the air with a beautiful thing for me, as well as Howie Mandel. So thank you this was a great segment❤❤
Great video! I was always team Jay! Got to see him a few years back. Fantastic show!
STUMBLED UPON THIS PODCAST AND KEEP WATCHING IT OVER AND OVER BECAUSE I ENJOY JAY'S OUTLOOK ON EVERYTHING. I READ HIS AUTOBIO "LEADING WITH MY CHIN" IN THE 90'S AND LAUGHED SO HARD AT EVERY PAGE THAT I LITERALLY WOULD HOLD MY EYELIDS OPEN WITH MY FINGERS TO BE ABLE TO KEEP READING! I'M GOING TO BUY ANOTHER COPY TO READ IT AGAIN! HE IS WONDERFUL IN EVERYWAY B/C HE CAME FROM A HARD WORKING MIDDLE CLASS FAMILY, NO THRILLS, NO SPOILING, HUMBLE MORALS AND WORKING ETHICS - PERFECT!
Jay is one of the finest human beings around in our times, a model to all of us, integrity, human values, just a wonderful person, a great comedian, and probably internationally the most important car expert and collector
Integrity??? People with integrity do not hide in closets to listen in on a private executive meeting.
"fine human beings" dont steal shows back from their former co workers who they had a great relationship with for over a decade
Tell Lou that I liked his comment a couple episodes back about making plans for Nigel, it’s one of my favorite songs! Let me tell you, if Lou ran for president I would vote for him, he is one of the most cultured people I have ever listened to. I really love the podcast, keep doing what you’re doing!
Through my previous job I met many celebrities and to this day the nicest one remains Jay Leno
Jay has always been a stand-up guy and the epitome of integrity. Love the interview.
HA!!
Love them both. Conan and Jay just speaking to each other again, would just be pure bliss. 🙏🏼
Yes, feuds are nothing to celebrate.
Howie is a legend! You can tell by the friends he has (that are Legends!) Amazing episode.
OMG!!!!! Howie told my husband it was your fault i didn't have dinner ready. Told you that you were my 2nd podcast i have ever watched. I just don't like them, but you've got me hooked. I've been on this podcast for 3hrs straight holy snap!!! You are good no BS and i love that you and your daughter don't care if you have a queston that your guest might be uncomfortable with you ask it, and i love it!, it's up to them if they want to answer or not. You and your daughter make a great team, and if you start slacking im going to call you on it.
This is the best podcast since Norm Macdonald Live.
Jay is the best...more people need to have his attitude and integrity
I’m so glad to hear the real truth behind that Tonight Show debacle that NBC created between Jay & Conan. Also, the way Jay takes the high road over the crap spewed by Howard Stern really made my day. Great job Howie, you are a great interviewer. ❤️✌️😎
spewed by Conan too!
Carson visited Letterman's show on CBS a number of times after he retired. He never visited Jay Leno on The Tonight Show. Carson wanted Letterman to be his replacement.
It's not "real truth", it's Jays side of the story, and there are at least 3 parties involved here.
If you read Bill Carter's two late night books, especially "The Late Night Wars," you'll get a better more full picture. And it shows how NBC, in trying to retain its finances in late night, screwed both artists. The thing Jay gets that Conan doesn't is that's how networks work. It's why you protect yourself with times lot guarantees if you're doing a nightly broadcast 1135 pm show. Or a play or pay deal. Or, in Leno's case, he had a pay and play deal. He knew NBC wouldn't play fair. Conan wasn't naive, I'd say he was a bit ignorant. And because he didn't have his people fight for certain guarantees (like a timeslot in a contract), NBC was able to meddle. In 2010, I always figured it was NBCs fault for that whole mess. It was stupidly crazy on their end.
Very nice sitdown .. they hv a comfy history...answers alot about the night show wars.. guves way to more questions...lotta fun words..thx
This was a great show. I love watching both of them.