The legend Jerry Lewis has died. Known for his slapstick routines, Lewis was not only a comedian and actor but he was a singer, film producer, screen writer and humanitarian.
Lewis starred in more than fifty movies, but also worked on stage, radio and television. He teamed up with Dean Martin in 1946 which first got him attention in the industry.
Films such as My Friend Irma and At War with the Army got him started on the big screen but he was perhaps best known for movies like The Nutty Professor and The Bellboy. At one stage he was the highest-paid actor in Hollywood.
Remembering the great Jerry Lewis! (1926-2017) #RIP pic.twitter.com/7DPFJ5s1gW
— Classic Hollywood(GP) (@CHC_1927) August 20, 2017
Lewis has two stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame; one for his television work and another for film. He eve had a comic book series The Adventures of Jerry Lewis, published by DC Comics.
He was also nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize in 1977 for his efforts in raising awareness and money for muscular dystrophy.
I'm heartbroken at the loss of our life-long friend (Uncle) Jerry Lewis. I've loved him all my life and will miss him greatly.
Deana Martin pic.twitter.com/ECsrZ4haLd— Deana Martin (@DeanaMartin_) August 20, 2017
The family issued a statement saying Lewis died peacefully from natural causes in his Vegas home on Sunday morning, age 91.
“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,” the family statement said.
Stars have paid tribute to him, including Jim Carrey, who gave credit to Lewis for own fame.
https://twitter.com/JimCarrey/status/899346214612750336