Hasty Pudding Theatricals' Announces Jay Leno As 2011 Man of the Year

The Hasty Pudding Theatricals of Harvard University has named comedian and talk show host Jay Leno as its 2011 Man of the Year. He joins Julianne Moore, recently chosen as our 2011 Woman of the Year.

The Man of the Year festivities will take place on Friday, Feb. 4th 2011. The producers of the Hasty Pudding Theatricals, Nikolus Ray '11 and Matthew Whitaker '12, will roast Jay Leno and present him with his Pudding Pot at 8:00 p.m. in the New College Theatre, prior to the start of the opening night performance of the 163rd production, "Kashmir If You Can." A press conference will be held at 8:30 p.m.
Jay Leno is a television icon and dedicated live performer who has entertained millions of people over his long and accomplished career in comedy. Before Leno became the host of the top-rated "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno," he honed his comedy in clubs all over the country, often exceeding 300 dates per year. After moving to Los Angeles, Leno began his career in television and film, both writing behind the scenes and making appearances in shows such as "Good Times," and films including "American Hot Wax."

In 1977 Leno made his first appearance on "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson," who was the 1977 Man of the Year. Leno took over as full-time host in 1992. Leno has never stopped touring on the comedy circuit and still averages over 150 gigs a year, including weekly shows in Las Vegas. Through all of his success, Leno continues to keep in touch with people by shaking hands and getting "one-on-one" time with audiences. Perhaps this is why he continues to exude the "everyman" style and personality. As an acclaimed comedian and television show host, Leno joins the likes of Johnny Carson and Bob Hope on our list of Man of the Year recipients.

Jay Leno's comedy extends across generations. Leno has authored two New York Times best-selling children's books, "How to be the Funniest Kid in the Whole Wide World (Or Just In Your Class)" and "If Roast Beef Could Fly." His other book, "Leading with My Chin," hit bookstores in 1998. He also has published four versions of "Headlines," a compilation of books and desk calendars featuring his favorite funny newspaper headlines, and "Police Blotter," a book with more humorous newspaper clips involving police stories (book proceeds go to various charities).

The Man and Woman of the Year awards are presented annually to performers who have made a lasting and impressive contribution to the world of entertainment. Established in 1951, the Woman of the Year award has been granted to many notable and talented entertainers, including Meryl Streep, Katharine Hepburn, Julia Roberts, Jodie Foster, ElizaBeth Taylor, and, most recently, Anne Hathaway. The Man of the Year award was established in 1963. Its past recipients include Clint Eastwood, Tom Cruise, Robert De Niro, Steven Spielberg, Harrison Ford, Anthony Hopkins, Bruce Willis, and, last year, Justin Timberlake.

To purchase tickets to the Hasty Pudding Theatricals' "Kashmir If You Can," contact the HPT Box Office at 617.495.5205. It will be performed at the New College Theatre, located at 12 Holyoke St. The show continues in Cambridge until March 6, playing Wednesday through Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 4 and 8 p.m., and Sunday matinees at 3 p.m. The company then travels to New York to perform at Hunter College's Kaye Playhouse on March 11 and 12 at 8 p.m. (call 212.772.4448 for tickets). The tour continues to the Hamilton City Hall in Bermuda for performances on March 17-19 at 8 p.m.

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