Jerry Lewis, the comedian and filmmaker who was adored by many, disdained by others, but unquestionably a defining figure of American entertainment in the 20th century, died on Sunday morning at his home in Las Vegas. He was 91.
So read the news reports when Jerry Lewis passed on. His unique comedic talent was not everybody's cup of tea but he earned a great following during his peak years.
Lewis burst literally into the spotlight as the crazy half of the comedy team of Martin & Lewis. Singer Dean Martin was the straight man and Jerry stole the show with his way out, over-the-top antics.
The pair split in 1956 and Jerry went on to gain even greater success in films like THE DELICATE DELINQUENT, THE LADIES MAN, THE BELLBOY, THE PATSY, THE DISORDERLY ORDERLY and THE NUTTY PROFESOR, which was his biggest success and the film he is mostly remembered for.
He hosted the annual Labor Day weekend telethon for the Muscular Dystrophy Association beginning in 1966 up until 2010, when some disagreements with the association's president, led to his resignation from the event.
In 2009 he was the recipient of the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award for his charitable activity.
Jerry was also the subject of a series of comic books published by DC Comics (first with Dean Martin and then as a single), in the 50s, 60s and 70s.
An animated cartoon series called "WILL THE REAL JERRY LEWIS PLEASE SIT DOWN?" by Filmation, ran on ABC from 1970 to 1972.
Thank you, Jerry, for all the joy, fun and laughter you gave me and millions of people all over the world!
