Jerry Lewis’ Cause Of Death Revealed
Pictured: Lewis speaks during Criss Angel’s HELP (Heal Every Life Possible) charity event at the Luxor Hotel and Casino benefiting pediatric cancer research and treatment on Sept. 12, 2016 in Las Vegas. Photo: Getty Images/Ethan Miller
The cause of Jerry Lewis’ death has been revealed.
On Sunday, “The Jerry Lewis Show” star died at the age of 91 in his home in Las Vegas. A day after his death, the Clark County Nevada Coroner has determined the cause of his death.
According to the coroner, the legendary comedian died of ischemic cardiomyopathy. This condition occurs when the heart becomes unable to pump enough blood through the rest of the body due to a coronary artery disease, New York Daily News reported. An autopsy will not be conducted.
Lewis has a history of heart issues. In 1960, when he was just 34, he suffered a heart attack. He suffered two more in 1982 and 2006. The celebrity also battled prostate cancer, Type 1 diabetes, pulmonary fibrosis and viral meningitis in his lifetime. In addition to this, he had a major back injury after he accidentally fell during a Las Vegas performance in 1965. That incident almost left him paralyzed.
Lewis’ family confirmed his death to Las Vegas Journal Review. “Famed comedian, actor and legendary entertainer Jerry Lewis passed away peacefully today of natural causes at 91 at his home in Las Vegas with his family by his side,” they said in a statement. According to them, he passed away at 9:15 a.m.
A number of celebrities expressed their grief over Lewis’ death. Deana Martin, who called Lewis “Uncle Jerry” was heartbroken upon hearing the news.
“This is the end of an era for me personally, and for millions of people around the world,” she said. “The night I was born, he and my dad were performing at Slapsy Maxie’s in L.A., so I have known Jerry all my life. He could be tough, but he was always so giving and sweet to me.”
Meanwhile, more celebrity fans and friends turned to social media to extend their love and support to Lewis’ grieving family. “Jerry Lewis was a comic and philanthropic icon. I send love to his family today,” Ellen DeGeneres wrote on Twitter.
Jimmy Kimmel also took the time to give tribute to the late comedian. “Jerry Lewis was a genius comedian, actor, director, inventor, humanitarian and, as a Las Vegan, what I miss most,” Kimmel wrote.
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