Facebook
Fark
Digg
Reddit
Stumble
Jerry Lewis listens as he is presented with the Nevada Broadcasters Association Lifetime Achievement Award at Red Rock Resort on Saturday, Aug. 20, 2011.
Published Sunday, Sept. 4, 2011 | 4:03 p.m.
Updated Sunday, Sept. 4, 2011 | 4:23 p.m.
The hosts of the 46th annual Muscular Dystrophy Association telethon said Sunday that Jerry Lewis retired from the yearly fundraiser — the organization’s first comments about the beloved icon’s departure since an announcement last month.
Lewis publicist Candi Cazau declined comment to the Associated Press when told of the comments to open the telethon on Sunday.
Co-host Nigel Lythgoe said during his opening comments on the telethon that he didn’t realize Lewis, 85, was thinking about retirement during the show last year, when the comedian offered Lythgoe his seat as Lewis took a break and Lythgoe was coming on the air.
“He made such a big point about it. 'I’ve never done this before,' he said,” said Lythgoe, the executive producer of “American Idol.” “I didn’t realize then that he was contemplating retiring.
“And Jerry, and I know you’re watching, when you gave me that chair I know it’s possible to sit on it, but it’s isn’t possible, Jerry, to replace you, sir,” he said. “What you have done for this organization and its families is something close to a miracle and I know that we all want to carry on your legacy.”
Entertainment journalist Jann Carl followed Lythgoe by saying Lewis retired from the telethon this year.
MDA spokesman Jim Brown declined comment beyond the hosts’ remarks, but said the telethon would include at least one more nod to Lewis.
Lewis, who’s appeared in scores of films and TV shows as well as produced, directed and taught film, had been chairman of the MDA since the early 1950s, before the famed telethon began.
The Lewis-less telethon began airing live on the east coast Sunday night with an opening number featuring young dancers performing to David Guetta’s “Titanium,” with an introduction from Abbey Umali, the organization’s tween goodwill ambassador.
The MDA is asking millions of Americans during the six-hour broadcast for at least $1 more than the $58.9 million it raised last year.
This year’s revamped fundraiser was expected to trot out as much A-list punch as it could muster as the charity works to raise money for neuromuscular research, clinics and summer camp for youngsters known as “Jerry’s Kids.”
CORRECTION: | (September 4, 2011)
Retired or Fired?
Retired after he was fired.
Yea, yea,,, that's it.. he, um... he voluntarily retired... He did it.. Not us.. he retired. Now please send us the money to show its not just about him.. But about... um.. those.. those kids. yea.. that's it...
I think the only reason the greedy SOB retired is becauce they didn't offer him enough money to host the MDA show.
Jerry Lewis has selflessly VOLUNTEERED nearly half a century to the MDA/USA cause and still continues globally. The man is AMAZING and tireless in his efforts. He is NOT going to spend precious energy over this now, when there are children still suffering around the world and OTHERS who appreciate JERRY LEWIS, and show him due respect.
MDA does great things for the children. Many of my students received support through MDA which assisted them and the quality of their lives, and made going to school more productive! Thank YOU!
No matter what happens, please remember, it is about the KIDS!