Comedy Legend Jerry Lewis Dies at 91
Legendary actor, comedian, and philanthropist Jerry Lews passed away on Sunday of “natural causes” at the age of 91. The Lewis family issued a statement today to Reuters saying, “Famed comedian, actor and legendary entertainer Jerry Lewis passed away peacefully today of natural causes at 91 at his home in Las Vegas with his family by his side.” His spokesperson confirmed he passed away around 9:30 am.
Lewis rose to fame in all facets of the entertainment industry from the big screen to television and even on stage. He first achieved fame as playing alongside Dean Martin on television, radio shows and even in films. In 1965, the two parted ways and Lewis went on to star in a countless number of successful films including, The Delicate Delinquent (1957), The Bellboy (1960) and The Nutty Professor (1963).
For over 40 years, Lewis was also responsible for hosting the annual Labor Day telethon for the Muscular Dystrophy Association until 2010 when he split from the organization.
Despite his ups and downs in the industry, Lewis kept a positive attitude and continued to work for as long as he could.
“I’ve worked under the most painful conditions any man has ever felt in his life,” he told The Hollywood Reporter in 2014. “But when I walk out on that stage, the pain goes away.”
Lewis survived by his wife, Sandee Pitnick, and his children, sons Gary, Ronnie, Scott, Christopher and Anthony and daughter Danielle. Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family and friends during this difficult time.
A karaoke obsessed, craft beer enthusiast and lover of all things pop culture, Denise enjoys all facets of entertainment from Broadway to box office blockbusters. In her spare time, she enjoys photography, concerts (lots and lots of concerts), volunteering, reading and playing with her rescue kitten, Samantha (who rescued who, right?).
