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Jerry Lewis Gone, But MDA Telethon Brings In More Than 2010

Even without Jerry Lewis, the Muscular Dystrophy Association telethon posted its best gain since the recession started, though the program’s longtime host was on the minds of many during the 46th annual fundraiser.

“American Idol” executive producer Nigel Lythgoe said after co-hosting Sunday’s program that he’s sorry the famed comedian didn’t participate, but the organization needs to move on to ensure the fundraiser continues.

Jerry Lewis Says He Built Reputation On Saving Lives Despite Separation From MDA

Jerry Lewis said Saturday that his years of service to the Muscular Dystrophy Association helped make him a star, but he didn’t provide details on his recent departure as the group’s national chairman.

Jerry Lewis Out As MDA Host, National Chairman

Just days after Jerry Lewis shot down rumors he was done hosting the Muscular Dystrophy Association annual telethon, the organization has announced the legendary funnyman won’t be back as master of ceremonies at the annual event. He also is no longer the national MDA chairman.

Legend Jerry Lewis Slams ‘American Idol’ Contestants: ‘They’re All McDonalds’ Wipeouts!’

Jerry Lewis is not a fan of reality television.

The star of Encore’s upcoming “Method to the Madness of Jerry Lewis,” a documentary about the 85-year-old comedian’s life and standup career, took aim at weight loss reality shows and the contestants who try out for FOX juggernaut “American Idol” on Friday at the Television Critics Association Summer Session 2011 in Beverly Hills.

Jerry Lewis Cancels Show In Australia Due To Ill Health

Jerry Lewis has canceled a show in Australia due to poor health.

The Muscular Dystrophy Foundation Australia said the comedian’s show Friday night in Sydney had been sold out.

Despite Tough Economy, Annual Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon Raises Nearly $59 Million

Despite the struggling economy, officials with the Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon say contributions and pledges from this year’s Labor Day event totaled $58.9 million.

While the amount was down from $60.5 million last year and a record $65 million in 2008, Lewis said he was pleased with the support to advance the research and service programs of the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon Raises Nearly $60.5 Million

Despite the tough economy, officials with the Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon say contributions and pledges from this year’s Labor Day event totaled nearly $60.5 million.

Officials say the funds will allow the Muscular Dystrophy Association to continue funding worldwide research to find treatments and cures for muscular dystrophy and related diseases.

Jerry Lewis Urges Telethon Viewers To Donate To Gustav Victims

As Hurricane Gustav approaches New Orleans, Jerry Lewis is using the 43rd Annual Jerry Lewis MDA Labor Day Telethon to help.

The comedian will encourage families registered with MDA and being evacuated from their homes due to Gustav to seek out MDA services wherever they end up. MDA has almost 5,000 registered families in the affected areas.

Access Hollywood’s Nancy O’Dell To Co-Host 43rd Jerry Lewis MDA Labor Day Telethon

The Jerry Lewis MDA Labor Day Telethon will return for its 43rd year on Sunday, with longtime hosts of the marathon fundraiser like Ed McMahon joined by newer participants including Access Hollywood’s Nancy O’Dell.

A first-time co-host of the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s event, Nancy joined MDA’s efforts to find treatments and a cure for ALS after her mother, Betty, was diagnosed with the disease in November.

Jerry Lewis Apologizes For Anti-Gay Slur

NEW YORK, NY (September 4, 2007) — Jerry Lewis dropped an anti-gay slur — the same one that got Isaiah Washington of “Grey’s Anatomy” in trouble — during the 18th hour of his annual Labor Day telethon.

Jerry Lewis Telethon Raises Record $61 Million

LAS VEGAS (September 5, 2006) — Jerry Lewis’ annual Labor Day telethon raised a record $61 million to fight muscular dystrophy, bolstered by a huge donation from a group of firefighters and the lack of a major hurricane before the show.

Jerry Lewis Suffers ‘Mild’ Heart Attack

LAS VEGAS (June 13, 2006) — Just a week after announcing his comeback, comedian Jerry Lewis has postponed a July engagement to perform live after suffering a “mild” heart attack on Sunday.