Jerry Lewis Will Receive Special Oscar
Legendary US comedian Jerry Lewis will be awarded with a special Oscar for his humanitarian work by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
Lewis, 82, who has never been nominated for an Oscar, will receive the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award during the 81st Annual Academy Awards ceremony on February 22.
The award has been presented to persons who have brought credit to the film industry through their humanitarian efforts.
Previous Jean Hersholt honorees include Sherry Lansing, Quincy Jones and Paul Newman. Lewis, one of the world’s great acting, directing and comedy talents, and national chairman of the Muscular Dystrophy Association, has devoted most of his adult life to seeking treatments and cures for people with muscular dystrophy and other devastating diseases. So far he has raised more than $2 billion for the cause through his annual Labor Day telethon.
Sid Ganis, president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, has described Jerry as "a legendary comedian who has not only brought laughter to millions around the world but has also helped thousands upon thousands by raising funds and awareness for those suffering from muscular dystrophy."
Lewis’ hit films include The Bellboy, The Ladies’ Man, The Nutty Professor and The King of Comedy
