Despite these difficulties, her court-appointed counsel described Mavis as a “delightful person” with a “charming personality,” while also acknowledging, “it was clear she had cognitive impairment.” Ostrin described their marriage as “long-term, loving and supportive,” noting that Mavis views Jay as “her protector and she trusts him.”
Jay Leno filed for conservatorship in January. Ostrin stated that Mavis “does not object” to the filing but “consents to it.” As a result, Ostrin formally recommended that Jay’s petition to become conservator of his wife’s estate be approved. The conservatorship petition for Mavis received further endorsement from her neurologist, Dr. Hart Cohen.
Dr. Cohen praised Jay’s character and his treatment of Mavis, stating he is “such a nice man and treats [Mavis] like gold.” This was echoed by Ostrin, the court-appointed counsel, who commended Jay’s integrity. Ostrin described the former “Tonight Show” host as “a standup guy” and said that the “private persona matches the public persona he projects.”
Mavis has been known for her philanthropic efforts, particularly for her work with the Feminist Majority Foundation’s campaign to stop gender apartheid in Afghanistan. The couple has been noted for their long-lasting marriage in the entertainment industry, which is often highlighted for its rarity.
Unlike her husband, however, Mavis has mostly stayed out of the limelight, focusing on her activism and advocacy work. Together, they’ve formed a partnership that balances public and private life, with shared interests in philanthropy and, to some extent, cars, as Jay Leno is an avid car collector.
The Lenos chose not to have children, a decision Mavis has spoken about publicly, explaining that she never wanted children, which was an unconventional choice that has allowed them more freedom in their lives and careers.
