Jay Leno (72) has already had an operation because of his severe burns. A second operation will be necessary in the coming days, the attending physician reported at a press conference that showed "FOX 11 Los Angeles". The comedian and presenter suffered the burns over the weekend while working on a car.

dr Peter H. Grossman of the Grossman Burn Center in California said Leno suffered burns to his face, hands and chest. Second and possibly third degree burns. The most serious injuries can be seen on the TV star's face, the doctor added.

The medic went on to say he expects Jay Leno to make a full recovery. Due to the severe burns, this could take "a little longer" than the comedian originally anticipated. After the fire, Leno issued a statement saying it would take him "a week or two" to get back on his feet.

According to the doctor, the first surgery Leno underwent was to remove damaged tissue and perform skin grafts. He will need a second operation this week. "We hope that he will be fine in the end," said Dr. Grossman, in the case of burn injuries, predictions are difficult.

"He's Jay Leno," says Dr. Grossman at the press conference recorded by "FOX 11 Los Angeles": "He's walking around making jokes." He is incredibly friendly, very accommodating and very grateful. He is an "ideal patient who understands the severity of his injury".

Leno was working under one of his cars in Burbank, California when a fire broke out. According to media reports, the 72-year-old was pulled out from under the car and taken to a hospital where he received emergency care and was eventually taken to the Grossman Burn Center.

Leno is best known as the host of The Tonight Show. The comedian took over the role of talk show host from Johnny Carson (1925-2005) in 1992 and ran the show until 2009. Leno was briefly followed by Conan O'Brien (59) until the 72-year-old returned to the show in 2010 and moderated it until 2014. Since then, Jimmy Fallon (48) has appeared on the "Tonight Show".