Jerry Lewis dead: Legendary comedian and Hollywood star dies aged 91

Jerry Lewis who was one of Hollywood's most renowned comedians noted for his work with Dean Martin, has died aged 91 at his home in Las Vegas.

"Legendary entertainer Jerry Lewis passed away peacefully today of natural causes at 91 at his home w/ family by his side," said a Lewis' family in a statement to entertainment reporter John Katsilometes. He passed away on Sunday (20 August) at 9.15am PT (5.15pm BST).

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Lewis battled with a number of health issues over the years, including open-heart surgery in 1983, surgery for prostate cancer in 1992, prescription drug dependency treatment in 2003, a heart attack in 2006 and a long fight with pulmonary fibrosis.

Lewis joined forced with Martin in the 1950s and took their comedy act to nightclubs, radio and the silver screen. Though the two split, Lewis remained a top movie draw through the mid-1960s with classics such as The Bellboy (1960) and The Nutty Professor (1963).

He was particularly popular in Europe, especially in France where he earned the nickname "Le Roi du Crazy". Lewis won eight "best director" awards in Europe, including three in France and one each in Belgium, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands and Spain.

He was awarded the French Legion of Honour in 1984 and the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award in 2009.

Lewis was also known for his continued efforts to fight muscular dystrophy. He hosted an annual Labour Day telethon, raising nearly $2.5bn, for the Muscular Dystrophy Association from 1955 until his ousting before the 2011 telecast. He was nominated in 1977 for a Nobel Peace Prize for his work.

Lewis married former band singer Patti Palmer in 1944. The couple had six sons, Gary, Ronnie, Scott, Anthony, Christopher and Joseph, who died in 2009. Lewis and Palmer's marriage ended in divorce.

Lewis is survived by his second wife, SanDee Pitnick, with whom he adopted a daughter, Variety reported.