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Jerry Lewis was an icon in the entertainment industry. He had a talent for making people laugh, and he was a role model for many comedians, like Jim Carey who went on see great success. His act with Dean Martin made him a household name and Lewis’ films gave people an opportunity to forget their worries and have a hearty laugh. With a net worth of $50.0 million, he proved how fruitful a career in comedy could really be. As we mourn the loss of another Hollywood great, let’s take a look back at the life and legacy of the iconic Jerry Lewis.

One of Hollywood’s most legendary and controversial artists died on Sunday, August 20, 2017. Veteran actor and comedian, Jerry Lewis passed away at his home in Las Vegas, Nevada. How did Jerry Lewis die? According to his publicist Candi Cazau, Jerry Lewis died at the age of 91, of natural causes. He made his mark in a variety of entertainment mediums, including movies, television, radio, nightclubs, theater, and even on the university lecture circuit. Lewis was without a doubt one of the defining figures in the entertainment industry of the 20th century; for over 60 years, he has made huge contributions to Hollywood and its evolution. However, he was both liked and disliked in equal measure. Keep reading for more details from our Jerry Lewis wiki.

Also Read: Jerry Lewis’ Wife, SanDee Pitnick: Wiki, Age, Children, & 4 Facts to Know

Comedy is Big Business

Born on March 16, 1926, in Newark, New Jersey to Rachel Brodsky and Daniel Levitch, Jerry Lewis’ age was 91 at the time of his death. He was a multifaceted actor, singer, comedian, film director, film producer, and screenwriter with several awards to his name. Lewis was also involved in humanitarian work. Though most people remember him for his slapstick humor, he was a very talented artist who worked in other genres, as well. He first gained attention for his teaming up with singer Dean Martin. Their chemistry was crackling with Martin keeping it relatively low-key compared to Lewis’ crazy antics, and the duo became a hit wherever they went. They had their own acts followed by appearances on radio, television, and in movies, because of which they gained popularity across the United States. Some movies of theirs that hit the bull’s eye were: That’s My Boy, The Stooge, The Caddy, Scared Stiff, Living it Up, You’re Never Too Young, and Pardners.

Going His Own Way

After a disagreement with Martin broke their successful partnership, Lewis decided to go solo. Initially, he was nervous about his decision, saying, “I was unable to put one foot in front of the other with any confidence. I was completely unnerved to be alone.” However, with help from his wife, Patti, Lewis overcame his nerves and plunged back into his career again. Some of Jerry Lewis’ movies that proved to be successful are The Sad Sack, Cinderfella, The Bellboy, The Ladies Man, The Nutty Professor, The Patsy, The Disorderly Orderly, Three on a Couch, and The Big Mouth. Towards the 1980s, he slowed down and did fewer films like The King of Comedy, Cracking Up, Arizona Dream, and Funny Bones. He was working well into his late ’80s in films like The Trust and Mad Rose.

Also Read: Jerry Lewis’ Net Worth: The One Man Laughter Machine

A Controversial Figure


As it goes with many actors, Lewis was at the center of many controversies throughout his career. Jerry Lewis was accused of being racist and homophobic, though his philanthropic efforts helped everyone —regardless of their skin color or sexual orientation. However, no one could deny that he knew how to get people to laugh.  Thanks to his long and successful career, Jerry Lewis’ net worth was an approximate $50.0 million at the time of this death. He married twice; first to Patti Palmer from 1944 to 1980, and then to SanDee Pitnick from 1983 on. Jerry Lewis and his second wife adopted a daughter named Danielle Sarah in March 1992. With Palmer, Jerry Lewis’ children include his six sons, one of whom was adopted. Lewis died of natural causes in his Las Vegas home on August 20, 2017. With his death, Hollywood has lost an icon who helped define the golden age of cinema. Rest in peace, Jerry Lewis.

Jeff Ross, Richard Belzer, Jerry Lewis and Jim Carrey

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