Jay Leno, the legendary comedy writer, standup comedian and late night TV host, will be honored at the upcoming Burbank International Film Festival with BIFF’s Vanguard Award, the fest’s organizers announced on Monday.
The celebration will take place during the fest’s awards gala at the Marriott Burbank on Saturday, Aug. 8. It will kick off with the mayor of the city of Burbank, Tamala Takahashi, issuing a special proclamation recognizing Leno’s impact on the city — which is home to NBC Studios, where Leno recorded The Tonight Show for over 20 years, and to Leno’s beloved car garage — and declaring that date ‘Jay Leno Day.’
Leno will then participate in an hourlong career-retrospective conversation — moderated by yours truly, and recorded for subsequent airing as an episode of The Hollywood Reporter’s Awards Chatter podcast — after which he will be presented with his award.
Previous recipients of BIFF’s Vanguard Award include Quentin Tarantino, Tim Burton and Paul Feig, all of whom also have ties to Burbank.
“Jay Leno represents the very best of the entertainment industry,” BIFF president Anna Maybury said in a statement. “His contributions to television have shaped generations of comedy and late-night entertainment, while his dedication to philanthropy demonstrates the character and generosity that inspire us all.”
Added BIFF advisory board member Tony Muscio, “We’re proud to honor Jay Leno, who has spent a lifetime making people laugh. His double-denim style, automotive prowess, and dedication to his craft set him apart. He’s even performing at Flappers Comedy Club right after being honored!”
The city of Burbank, nicknamed the “Media Capital of the World,” is home to over 1,000 media companies, including Hollywood giants Warner Bros. Pictures, Walt Disney Company and NBC Studios.
For more information about the 2026 edition of BIFF, click here. And to purchase tickets to the awards gala, which will be emceed by actress Kambra Potter, click here.
