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Jerry Lewis drops by Chapman scholarship fundraiser

November 8th, 2009, 12:32 pm · 10 Comments · posted by Gary Robbins, science writer-editor

Jerry Lewis greets a well-wisher at Chapman University on Nov. 7th. Image by Gary Robbins, The Register

HEY LAY-DEEE: Jerry Lewis greets a well-wisher at Chapman University on Nov. 7th. Image by Gary Robbins, The Register

Legendary comedian-actor-director Jerry Lewis dropped by Chapman University’s annual scholarship fundraiser, “American Celebration,” on Saturday night, drawing a steady stream of well-wishers during a reception in Fish Interfaith Chapel. The 83-year-old Lewis appeared in good health, and Chapman President James Doti announced during a pause in the evening’s song-and-dance show that Lewis intends to return to film directing next year. Lewis, accompanied by his wife SanDee, received a standing ovation when he was introduced to the audience during the evening performance in Memorial Hall. Saturday’s “American Celebration’ raised $2.2 million for student scholarships. “We had dialed back our expectations because of the economy, but got $2.2 million, which is the second highest in the (28 year history) of the celebration,” said Mary Platt, the university’s spokeswoman. Doti announced the $2.2 million in scholarship money during a dinner party attended by more than 700 people. The dinner was held in a massive tent adorned with 45,000 roses that were provided by an unnamed private donor. Among the people attending the dinner was famed singer-dancer Mitzi Gaynor, who had received a lifetime achievement award from the school earlier in the evening.

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 10 Comments

  • Mr. NoSpin says:

    Hmmm, I wonder what they paid him. I heard that Jerry does not go anywhere without a check attached to his appearance.

  • PeterS says:

    HELLO?

    Have you heard of the Jerry Lewis Telethon? Jerry receives no pay for that at all!!! Check your facts please.

    • Frank Di Bella says:

      My name is Frank Di Bella I am Mr. Lewis C.P.A. and a National Vice President of MDA and I can assure you Mr. Lewis receives no pay for his services to MDA.

  • s. paul musco says:

    MR LEWIS WAS MY INVITED GUEST AS WERE 25 OTHER PERSONS.

    HE WAS NOT A GUEST OF CHAPMAN UNIVERSITY.

    SPM

  • Irving says:

    Wow, was this publicized or open to the public? I would have loved to have seen this. This guy is one of the last remaining genuine superstars, a remarkable human being , a health miracle story, and still one of the most gifted comedians ever (never fails to make me laugh).

  • Honeyman says:

    In 2000, during an appearance at the U.S. Comedy Arts Festival in Aspen, CO, Lewis was asked which female comics he admires. “I don’t like any female comedians,” he recalled.

    Martin Short, who was moderating the panel reminded him of Lucille Ball and remarked, “You must have loved her.”

    Lewis replied “No, ” then added, “A woman doing comedy doesn’t offend me but sets me back a bit. … I think of her as a producing machine that brings babies in the world.”

    • Irving says:

      So he takes questions seriously and answers them honestly, without a damn aboput “political correctness”. Whether you agree or disagree with him, you have to admit that such an attitude is refreshing relative to this BS world. This is something for which Lewis has always been known, and it has gotten him into trouble from time to time. Ask him if he cares. Like I said, refreshing. Maybe he should run for political office.

      • Honeyman says:

        Huh? If I asked Ahmadinejad what he thought of the Jewish people he would answer honestly, “They should all be exterminated”. I wouldn’t find that refreshing, however.

        I’m not comparing Lewis to this anti-Semite, but he is a misogynist and has made many derogitory remarks about gays and other minorities as well.

        The man might be a comedy legend (though not close to being in Lucille Ball’s league), but that doesn’t mean he’s not a flat out jerk

  • Marcia O'Hagan says:

    I’m the lady in the photo. One of the many well-wishers at Chapman’s annual American Celebration, and I agree with Irving’s blog. I was overwhelmed with delight and joy at meeting Jerry Lewis. A truly remarkable icon and wonderful person. I can’t tell you what a special honor this was for me. Thank you Mr. Lewis for stopping by and joining us! I’m still floating on a cloud.