One of Hollywood's most successful comedians and filmmakers Jerry Lewis is dead. He was a comedy icon who entertained generations for almost 70 years and was adored by many as a defining figure of American entertainment in the 20th century. Lewis Passed on peacefully on Sunday morning at the age of 91. His publicist, Candi Cazau said that he died of natural causes. His death occurred just a day after another former comedian and actor, Dick Gregory passed on Saturday.
Celebrities and the White House paid tribute to the fallen hero
Fellow stars paid tribute to the late actor.
After receiving the news, Whoopi Goldberg said it was a gain for Heaven as well as a loss in comedy. Jim Carrey, who was inspired by Lewis, comedy-wise, stated that Lewis was never a dummy, but an undeniable genius. Carrey said he wouldn't be who he was if it wasn’t for Lewis. William Shatner, a Star Trek actor, tweeted that the world was a lot less funny the day the news was reported.
Deana Martin said she was heartbroken after hearing the loss of their lifelong friend and uncle, she had loved him all her life and is going to miss him. Nancy Jerry wrote a heartful tweet saying that her late dad would be happy to see Jerry and it was sad for her to see him go. She sent him to hug her father on her behalf and said she will always love him.
On Sunday evening, the White House released a statement which acknowledged his Charity Work, contribution to comedy and consoled his family.
Jerry had suffered a couple of illnesses in the past
Mr. Lewis suffered from a series of serious illnesses in his late-life, including pulmonary fibrosis, prostate cancer, and two heart attacks.
His drug treatment made him lose weight alarmingly, even though he recovered some to continue performing into the 21st century. Despite being successful, Jerry Lewis was also controversial. He lost some fans when he described female comedians as producing machines that brought babies to the world. He was mocked by critics for his widened comedy.
When he received the Legion of Honor, highest tribute in France, in 1984, he was criticized more.
His parents were entertainers
He was born in 1926 in New Jersey. His mother was a pianist, and his father was vaudeville performer. He dropped out from school and began working in clubs in the Catskills. He paired with Dean Martin in 1946 and worked their way up to a radio show. They made 16 movies in over ten years before their partnership ended in 1956. In 1960, his popularity declined, and he spent time teaching film at the University of Southern California. In 2009, he won the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award for his contributions. The world truly lost a legend. Rest in peace Jerry Lewis.