US comedian Jerry Lewis dies

Entertainer Jerry Lewis, one of Hollywood's most successful comedians, died yesterday aged 91, reports BBC. A family statement said he had died of natural causes at his home in Las Vegas on Sunday morning. Lewis's 10-year partnership with Dean Martin saw them star in 16 films and achieve huge box office success.

He became the highest paid actor in Hollywood, chalking up hits such as The Bell Boy, Cinderfella and The Nutty Professor. Other notable successes included The King of Comedy in 1983.

In 1995, he became the highest-paid star in Broadway history as Mr Applegate in the musical Damn Yankees. In later life, he caused controversy with comments on race and his right-wing political views.

Lewis was born Joseph Levitch in Newark, New Jersey, to Russian-Jewish parents who were both in showbusiness. He started performing on stage at the age of five alongside his parents.

 

US comedian Jerry Lewis dies

Entertainer Jerry Lewis, one of Hollywoods most successful comedians, died yesterday aged 91, reports BBC. A family statement said he had died of natural causes at his home in Las Vegas on Sunday morning. Lewiss 10-year partnership with Dean Martin saw them star in 16 films and achieve huge box office success. He became the highest paid actor in Hollywood, chalking up hits such as The Bell Boy, Cinderfella and The Nutty Professor. Other notable successes included The King of Comedy in 1983. In 1995, he became the highest-paid star in Broadway history as Mr Applegate in the musical Damn Yankees. In later life, he caused controversy with comments on race and his right-wing political views. Lewis was born Joseph Levitch in Newark, New Jersey, to Russian-Jewish parents who were both in showbusiness. He started performing on stage at the age of five alongside his parents.