Jerry Lewis beginnings
Jerry Lewis was an American comedian, actor, singer and filmmaker.
He was born on March 16, 1926 in Newark, New Jersey, and died on August 20, 2017 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Lewis rose to fame in the mid-20th century as a member of the comedy duo Martin and Lewis, alongside Dean Martin.
The pair performed in nightclubs, television shows and movies, becoming one of the most successful comedy teams in history.
Duo Jerry Lewis and Dean Martin
Jerry Lewis and Dean Martin are icons of the entertainment industry, known for their unique comedic style and successful collaborations. Their partnership, which lasted from 1946 to 1956, produced 16 films and countless live performances, making them one of the most successful comedy duos in history.
Early Years of Jerry Lewis and Dean Martin were both born in the early 1920s and grew up in humble beginnings.
Lewis was born in Newark, New Jersey, and was raised by his grandmother after his parents separated.
Martin was born in Steubenville, Ohio, and was the son of Italian immigrants.
Both had a passion for entertainment from a young age, with Lewis performing in vaudeville shows and Martin singing in local bands.
The two met in 1945 at the Glass Hat Club in New York City, where Martin was performing and Lewis was working as a comedian.
They hit it off immediately and began performing together in clubs and theaters across the country. Their unique blend of Martin’s suave crooning and Lewis’ zany antics quickly became a hit with audiences, and they were soon signed to a contract with Paramount Pictures.
Over the next few years, Martin and Lewis became one of the most successful comedy duos in history, starring in films such as “My Friend Irma” and “The Caddy” and headlining at the Copacabana nightclub in New York City.
Martin and Lewis, profound impact on the entertainment industry
Martin and Lewis had a profound impact on the entertainment industry, revolutionizing the way comedy was performed and paving the way for future comedians.
Their unique blend of Martin’s smooth singing and Lewis’ physical comedy created a new form of entertainment that had never been seen before.
Their films were hugely successful, grossing millions of dollars at the box office and cementing their status as Hollywood stars.
They also had a successful radio show and made numerous appearances on television. Their partnership was not just limited to the entertainment industry, however.
Martin and Lewis were also known for their philanthropic work, raising millions of dollars for charities such as the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
Breakup of the duo Martin and Lewis
Despite their success, Martin and Lewis’ partnership came to an abrupt end in 1956.
There are many theories as to why they broke up, including creative differences and personal conflicts.
Regardless of the reason, their separation came as a shock to the entertainment industry and their fans.
After the split, Martin had a successful solo career as a singer and actor, starring in films such as “Ocean’s Eleven” and “Rio Bravo.”
Lewis also had a successful solo career, starring in films such as “The Nutty Professor” and “The Bellboy.”
Despite their success as individuals, Martin and Lewis will always be remembered for the legacy they left as a duo. His impact on the entertainment industry cannot be understated, and his influence can still be seen in the work of comedians and artists today.
Jerry Lewis solo career
After the duo split in 1956, Lewis embarked on a solo career and gained greater recognition as a comedy actor.
He starred in numerous successful films, including “The Nutty Professor” (1963), “The Bellboy” (1960) and “The Errand Boy” (1961).
Lewis was known for his physical comedy, slapstick humor and his distinctive voice.
Movies in which Jerry Lewis was an actor
Some films in which Jerry Lewis was an actor are:
- “The Bellboy” (1960)
- “Cinderella” (1960)
- “The Nutty Professor” (1963)
- “The Disorderly Orderly” (1964)
- “The Family Jewels” (1965)
- “Three on a Couch” (1966)
- “The Big Mouth” (1967)
- “The Day the Clown Cried” (1972)
- “The Errant Boy” (1961)
- “The Ladies Man” (1961)
These are just some of the films in which Jerry Lewis was an actor, since his career spans more than 70 years and he participated in numerous films.
Jerry Lewis director
Lewis also directed and produced films, becoming one of the most influential figures in the entertainment industry.
He directed and starred in several successful films, including “The Ladies Man” (1961) and “The Disorderly Orderly” (1964).
Films directed by Jerry Lewis
Jerry Lewis directed several films throughout his directing career. Some of the best known are:
- The Bellboy (1960)
- The Ladies Man (1961)
- The Nutty Professor (1963)
- The Patsy (1964)
- The Family Jewels (1965)
- Boeing Boeing (1965)
- Three on a Couch (1966)
- The Day the Clown Cried (incomplete and unreleased)
Jerry Lewis humanitarian efforts
Lewis was also involved in humanitarian efforts and was known for his annual telethon to raise funds for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. He served as national president of the association from 1952 to 2011.
Conclusion
Jerry Lewis’ contributions to comedy and his charitable work made him a beloved and iconic figure in the world of entertainment. He left a lasting impact on numerous comedians, actors and filmmakers who were inspired by his comedic genius.
