Lindsay Anderson
British feature-film, theatre and documentary director and film critic (1923-1994)
Jerry Lewis was an iconic American comedian, filmmaker, actor, humanitarian, and singer, known as the “King of Comedy.” He starred in over 59 films, including many with his famous comedy partner Dean Martin, and was nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize for his work with the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Lewis was a legendary figure in the entertainment industry and left a lasting impact on comedy and philanthropy.
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About the Jerry Lewis
Jerry Lewiswas an American comedian, filmmaker, actor, humanitarian and singer, who was famously nicknamed “The King of Comedy” throughout the United States. Lewis appeared in more than 59 motion pictures, including the first sixteen films with his partner, singer Dean Martin, during their act as Martin and Lewis.
He acted in Cinderfellaand The Family Jewelsearning a BAFTA Award for Best Supporting Actor nomination and was an early and prominent user of video assist.
From star of The Colgate Comedy Hour to host of The Jerry Lewis Labor Day Telethon (benefiting the Muscular Dystrophy Association), his work won him several accolades, including two stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Lewis performed in concert stages, nightclubs, audio recordings and appeared in at least 117 film and television productions. He was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 1977 for his work on behalf of the Muscular Dystrophy Association, while France awarded him the Legion of Honor in 2006.
Frequently Asked Questions
Jerry Lewis’ birth name was Joseph Levitch.
Jerry Lewis appeared in more than 59 motion pictures throughout his career.
Jerry Lewis performed with singer Dean Martin as the comedy duo Martin and Lewis.
Jerry Lewis was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 1977 for his work on behalf of the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
Jerry Lewis won several accolades, including two stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the Legion of Honor from France.
Jerry Lewis portrayed Jerry Langford in Martin Scorsese’s 1982 film The King of Comedy, earning a BAFTA Award for Best Supporting Actor nomination.
Jerry Lewis was famously nicknamed ,The King of Comedy, throughout the United States.
9 Quotes by Jerry Lewis
- 1.
Pity? You don’t want to be pitied because you’re a cripple in a wheelchair? Stay in your house!
Jerry LewisAmerican comedian, actor and filmmaker (1926-2017)
- 2.
When I was onstage doing the work, adrenaline killed the pain because I never hurt in front of an audience.
Jerry LewisAmerican comedian, actor and filmmaker (1926-2017)
- 3.
A woman doing comedy doesn’t offend me, but sets me back a bit. I, as a viewer, have trouble with it. I think of her as a producing machine that brings babies in the world.
Jerry LewisAmerican comedian, actor and filmmaker (1926-2017)
- 4.
I am probably the most selfish man you will ever meet in your life. No one gets the satisfaction or the joy that I get out of seeing kids realize there is hope.
Jerry LewisAmerican comedian, actor and filmmaker (1926-2017)
- 5.
I’ve had great success being a total idiot.
Jerry LewisAmerican comedian, actor and filmmaker (1926-2017)
- 6.
We’re leaving the House to people who either were born with a silver spoon in their mouth… or couldn’t get better jobs in the first place.
Jerry LewisAmerican comedian, actor and filmmaker (1926-2017)
- 7.
People hate me because I am a multifaceted, talented, wealthy, internationally famous genius.
Jerry LewisAmerican comedian, actor and filmmaker (1926-2017)
- 8.
Every man’s dream is to be able to sink into the arms of a woman without also falling into her hands.
Jerry LewisAmerican comedian, actor and filmmaker (1926-2017)
- 9.
I get paid for what most kids get punished for.
Jerry LewisAmerican comedian, actor and filmmaker (1926-2017)