Jay Leno Proves Marriage Vows Aren’t Just for the Good Times as He Cares for Wife with Dementia

Jay Leno is showing the world that marriage vows go way beyond the "for better" part. Nearly 45 years after tying the knot, the former late-night legend is fully embracing the "in sickness and in health" promise, now caring for his wife Mavis as she battles dementia. Last year, Leno, 74, was granted a conservatorship after petitioning a Los Angeles court, stepping up as her legal care provider.

Speaking about their journey, Leno shared that being a caregiver has opened his eyes to the real meaning of commitment. He even jokes about how he didn’t face the kind of challenges some do — no military service, no life-or-death moments — but now, this role has put him to the test in a way nothing else has. And let’s be honest, his comparison to running off with a mini-mart cashier is classic Jay; the man never loses his comedic touch, even in tough times.

Leno admits he enjoys the time together, even if it means doing more hands-on care than before. Coming home, making dinner, watching TV — it’s a routine that’s changed in the details, but not in heart. "I like taking care of her," he says. "I'm needed, and I need to be there." For a couple who’s always done things together, there’s something quietly heroic about that kind of everyday devotion.

In his conservatorship petition, Leno made it clear he’s looking out for Mavis’ future as well, ensuring she’ll have the care she needs no matter what. After more than four decades together, he’s still handling the finances and the tough calls — not exactly the glamorous side of Hollywood love stories but probably the most important.

While he admits it’s a challenge — feeding, changing, carrying, and all the daily realities — Leno finds a certain satisfaction in it. "It's not that I enjoy doing it, but I… I guess I enjoy doing it. It's OK." In other words, love is less about grand gestures and more about showing up, even on the hardest days.

And yes, there’s laughter in their home. Leno tries to keep things light, using flashcards and family photos to spark memories, even joking about old dinners with President Obama. Finding humor in the tough moments isn’t just a coping mechanism for Leno — it’s practically his superpower.

Looking back, he’s glad he didn’t "cut and run" or chase after some fleeting excitement. "I would rather be with her than doing something else," he says, proving that sometimes, the truest love story is the one that quietly endures.