Jerry Lewis

Jerry Lewis (born Joseph Levitch; March 16, 1926 – August 20, 2017) was an American comedian, actor, singer, director, producer, screenwriter, and humanitarian. He was known for his slapstick humor in film, television, stage, and radio. He was also known for his charity work, particularly with the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA).

Early Life

Jerry Lewis was born Joseph Levitch in Newark, New Jersey, on March 16, 1926, to Russian Jewish parents. His father, Daniel Levitch, was a master of ceremonies and vaudeville entertainer who used the professional name Danny Lewis. His mother, Rachel (Rae) Levitch, was a piano player for a radio station. He had two brothers, Danny and Leonard.

Lewis started performing at age five and would often perform alongside his parents in the Catskill Mountains in New York State. He attended Irvington High School in Irvington, New Jersey, and later attended the School of Industrial Art in New York City.

Career

In 1946, Lewis formed a comedy duo with singer Dean Martin. The two performed on the radio, in nightclubs, and on television. They starred in a series of successful comedy films from 1949 to 1956, including At War with the Army (1950), The Stooge (1951), Scared Stiff (1953), and Hollywood or Bust (1956).

In the 1950s, Lewis began appearing in solo films and starred in such classics as The Bellboy (1960), The Nutty Professor (1963), and The Patsy (1964). He also directed and produced many of his own films, including The Ladies Man (1961) and The Errand Boy (1961).

In the 1970s, Lewis returned to television, hosting The Jerry Lewis Show (1967–1969) and The Jerry Lewis Comedy Hour (1972–1973). He also starred in several films, including The King of Comedy (1982) and Hardly Working (1980).

Humanitarian Work

Lewis was a tireless advocate for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA). He hosted the annual Labor Day Telethon for the MDA from 1966 to 2010. He raised more than $2.45 billion for the organization during his tenure.

In 2009, Lewis was honored with the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award at the Academy Awards. He was also awarded the Legion of Honor by the French government in 1984.

Death

Lewis died on August 20, 2017, at the age of 91. He was survived by his second wife, SanDee Pitnick, and six children. He was buried at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Los Angeles.

Legacy

Lewis was one of the most popular and influential comedians of the 20th century. He was known for his slapstick humor and his charity work. He was also a successful actor, director, producer, and screenwriter. His legacy lives on through his films, television shows, and humanitarian work.