Jay Leno was released from a California burn center Monday, less than two weeks after he suffered serious wounds in a car fire, the medical center said.
A photo shared by the Grossman Burn Center in Los Angeles offered the first look at the former “Tonight Show” host since he sustained what his doctor described as deep second-degree burns and possibly third-degree burns to his face, chest and hands.
“I am pleased with Jay’s progress, and I am optimistic that he will make a full recovery,” Dr. Peter Grossman said in a statement.
Leno had undergone one surgery and had at least another scheduled when Grossman gave an update on the comedian’s condition last Wednesday.
The New Rochelle, N.Y., native, 72, was badly burned when a car he was working beneath at his L.A. garage burst into flames on Nov. 12.
Leno will receive further treatment at an outpatient clinic, the burn center said.
“Jay would like to let everyone know how thankful he is for the care he received, and is very appreciative of all of the well wishes,” the burn center said in a statement Monday. “He is looking forward to spending Thanksgiving with his family and friends and wishes everyone a wonderful holiday.”
Grossman said last week that Leno appeared to avoid nerve damage but called his facial wounds “a little more concerning.”
“Whether there will be remnants of this injury, it’s way too early to tell,” Grossman said at the time.
Leno said he was OK shortly after the incident, which he described as a gasoline fire.
“Just need a week or two to get back on my feet,” Leno said in a statement.
Leno starred on NBC’s “Tonight Show” from 1992 to 2009, then again from 2010 to 2014. A longtime car enthusiast and collector, Leno has hosted the CNBC series “Jay Leno’s Garage” highlighting vintage and uncommon vehicles since 2014.
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