Celebrating 90 years of Jerry Lewis

Jerry Lewis, the iconic American comedian, actor, singer, film producer, screenwriter and film director turned 90 yesterday. Born March 16, 1926 Lewis is celebrated for his slapstick humor in film, television, stage and radio.

He was originally paired up with Dean Martin in 1946, forming the famed comedy team of Martin and Lewis. And the comedy legend went on to do great things even after splitting from comedy partner Dean Martin. 

As the funny man turns 90, The Daily Star looks back upon some his most tummy tickling, drop-your-socks funny works:

--The Nutty Professor (1963)

This pet project was Lewis' fourth effort as writer-director and, in cinematic terms, his best film. Outrageous and cool with Jerry somewhat restrained, there are many great moments, like at the gym and that silly dance. 

--The Ladies' Man (1961)

This is probably the funniest in a list of super-funny movies. Even Jerry cracks up during the most hysterical sequence, an improvised hat bit opposite a deadpan Buddy Lester.

--The Errand Boy (1961)

Ace stooge Morty S. Tashman is hired by the Paramutual movie studios to spy on the staff. Morty is mostly mute and bumbles into wild predicaments. Hey, it worked the previous year -- BUT HE'S NOT A BELLHOP! Wonderful behind-the-scenes look at Paramount and the golden days before computers ripped the heart and magic from motion pictures.  

--The Disorderly Orderly (1964)

Jerome Littlefield (Lewis) is an orderly at the Whitestone Sanatorium and Hospital who suffers from "neurotic identification empathy"—a psychosomatic problem that causes him to suffer the symptoms of others and interferes with his ability to function effectively on the job. His unwitting propensity for slapstick-style mayhem sorely tries the patience of Dr. Howard and Nurse Higgins. Set in a fancy nursing home, Jerome, the disaster prone aide, battles sympathy pains, a snail, and a gasping, high-speed ambulance chase.

--The Family Jewels (1965)

A chauffeur accompanies a child heiress when she sets out to choose her new "father" among her uncles. Jerry plays seven characters in what is essentially an elaborate collection of sketches, the highlight of which is no-frills airline mogul/pilot, Capt. Eddie.