Jerry Lewis Cause of Death

Jerry Lewis, one of America's most recognizable comedians and entertainers, died on August 20, 2017, at the age of 91. His death marked the end of a remarkable career that spanned more than seven decades and included work as a comedian, actor, singer, director, producer and humanitarian.

Lewis died at his home in Las Vegas, Nevada, surrounded by members of his family. His passing was widely mourned across the entertainment world, where he had established himself as one of the most influential comedic performers of his generation.

Jerry Lewis died of end-stage cardiac disease due to peripheral vascular disease.

According to the Clark County Coroner in Nevada, Lewis died of natural causes at his Las Vegas home. His physician signed his death certificate and indicated that his heart failed as his underlying cardiovascular conditions progressed.

Lewis had experienced health problems during the later years of his life, but his death was ultimately attributed to the progression of end-stage cardiac disease associated with peripheral vascular disease.

Jerry Lewis’s Final Years

Lewis remained a familiar figure in American entertainment long after the height of his movie career. Although health issues affected him during his later years, he continued to be recognized for the enormous influence he had on comedy and popular culture.

His death at 91 brought an end to the life of a performer whose career had taken him from nightclub stages to some of Hollywood's biggest productions.

Remembering Jerry Lewis

Born Joseph Levitch on March 16, 1926, in Newark, New Jersey, Jerry Lewis began performing at a young age. He became internationally famous through his comedy partnership with Dean Martin. The duo became one of the most successful entertainment acts of the 1940s and 1950s before eventually pursuing separate careers.

After his partnership with Martin ended, Lewis established himself as a major solo star. He appeared in numerous successful films and became particularly known for his physical comedy, expressive performances and distinctive screen persona.

Among his best-known films were The Nutty Professor, The Bellboy, Cinderfella and The Patsy. He also directed several of his own films, demonstrating that his talents extended beyond performing.

Lewis was also an important figure in television and live entertainment. His annual Labor Day telethons for the Muscular Dystrophy Association helped raise enormous amounts of money and made him closely associated with efforts supporting people with muscular dystrophy.

Jerry Lewis Legacy

Jerry Lewis left behind a complex and influential legacy in American comedy. His style of physical humor, exaggerated expressions and energetic performances influenced generations of comedians and performers.

Although his career included both celebrated successes and controversial moments, his impact on comedy and entertainment remained undeniable. He was recognized as a performer who helped shape the language of American screen comedy during the second half of the 20th century.

Lewis's passing on August 20, 2017, brought tributes from entertainers, comedians and fans around the world. At 91, he left behind decades of performances and a body of work that continues to introduce new audiences to his distinctive approach to comedy.

Jerry Lewis will be remembered not only for his films and performances but also for his long career in entertainment and his extensive charitable work.

May Jerry Lewis rest in peace.