Talk show legend Jay Leno is working on one of his vehicles in his garage when a fire breaks out. He is injured, but gives the all-clear shortly afterwards – probably a bit too hasty: The injuries to the face and hands are likely to be serious because the American needs several skin transplants.

The US talk show icon Jay Leno had to undergo skin transplants on his face and hands after a serious accident. Another operation is planned for this week, said treating physician Peter Grossman. The condition of the former presenter of the “Tonight Show” is “good”. He’s running around again and “tears jokes”.

The 72-year-old is currently being treated at a burns clinic in Los Angeles. Leno had suffered second- and possibly third-degree burns last Sunday when a car burst into flames in his Los Angeles garage. The self-confessed car enthusiast, who has a large collection of rare and expensive cars and motorcycles, was under the vehicle at the time of the accident.

After the accident, Leno had stated: “I’m okay. I just need a week or two weeks to get back on my feet.” However, Grossman warned that recovery will likely take more time. The progression of burn injuries is difficult to predict, Grossman said. But he assumes that Leno will “fully recover”.

The stand-up comedian took over the legendary talk show “The Tonight Show” from host Johnny Carson on NBC in 1992. He hosted the show on one hiatus until 2014, after which he was succeeded by comedian Jimmy Fallon. From the following year he hosted the car show “Jay Leno’s Garage”.