by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 9:10 AM ET, Fri June 2, 2023
Acclaimed late-night talk show host and comedian Jay Leno will serve as Carnival Cruise Line’s first-ever godfather for the Carnival Venezia.
Leno will christen the former Costa ship on June 14, 2023, in New York City when it begins its service as the first of the line’s “Carnival Fun Italian Style” offerings. He’ll also perform for guests during the ceremony. The christening will also be available to live stream for those who register ahead of the event.
The Carnival Venezia will feature the same beloved dining and entertainment options onboard other Carnival ships, with a distinctly Italian twist. The Venice-inspired Piazza San Marco atrium welcomes guests as they first board, while three special restaurants, including the new Italian specialty restaurant “Il Viaggio,” continue the Italian theme.
"Carnival Venezia originally entered service for our Italian sister brand Costa Cruises and was christened in 2019, so she already has a godmother. With Carnival Venezia joining the fleet and sailing from New York, we wanted to ensure a proper welcome for the ship and decided having a godfather would be both fun and appropriate,” said Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy. “And when we thought of someone who would make a FUN godfather with Italian heritage, we knew Jay Leno would be the perfect godfather! And he’s already a member of the Carnival family – he entertained guests a few years ago as part of our Carnival LIVE entertainment series.”
The New York native is the grandson of immigrants from Flumeri, Campania, Italy. He is most famous for his nearly two-decades-long role as the host of The Tonight Show, which he retired from in 2014. Today, he continues doing stand-up and hosting his new show, Jay Leno’s Garage.
“I am truly honored to be named the godfather of Carnival Venezia. It was an offer I couldn’t refuse,” said Leno. “Carnival’s focus on FUN combined with the Italian theming of this ship is something that is truly unique. I’m also excited to have my very own cruise ship, although I think I’ll need a bigger garage!”
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