Jerry Lewis' ouster from MDA telethon not in new Encore documentary
The press release from Encore:
BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. - ENCORE is set to celebrate "The King of Comedy," Jerry Lewis, with the premiere of an original, feature-length documentary, "Method to the Madness of Jerry Lewis."
Airing Saturday, November 12th at 8 p.m. ET/PT, this contemporary look at the living legend features extensive and in-depth interviews with Hollywood industry icons who have been influenced by the legendary actor, director, producer, writer, singer and humanitarian. Superstars like Jerrry Seinfeld, Alec Baldwin, Eddie Murphy, Chevy Chase, Quentin Tarantino, and more, take part in this special television event that explores the career of one of comedy's most talented and charismatic performers.
In addition to never-before-seen footage that helps define Lewis' storied career, viewers will get an intimate look at the unrivaled icon, who is one of the world's most well known philanthropists, as he travels the world continuing his comedic reign at the ripe, young age of 85.
Director/Producer Gregg Barson (director/producer of the award-winning Phyllis Diller documentary "Goodnight, We Love You") has worked with Jerry for the past three years, filming him in action from concert tours to the Cannes Film Festival in France. Barson is the only filmmaker to be granted rare and unlimited access to Jerry, who has opened up his private vault of personal archives - never seen before by the general public.
"It has been an incredible experience to create a film about a legendary filmmaker. I have admired Jerry my entire life and career, and want the world to appreciate the vast depths of his talent through my interpretation of a true genius," said Barson.
"Watch and see how a crazy man made his living," said the legendary Lewis.
"This will not be a typical biography on him, but more of a candid look at the man himself as he reflects on his career now and over the years," added Stephan Shelanski, EVP of Programming, Starz Entertainment. "It will remind us of Jerry's true genius as a comedian."
Internationally renowned, Jerry Lewis is a renaissance man for all seasons. Performing on stage at the age of five, he has acted, produced, directed and authored books; was part of the immortal comedy duo of Martin and Lewis; invented the Video Assist, a closed circuit television system which is used on virtually every movie and television production; nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize and presented with numerous humanitarian awards, including the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences' Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award.
In addition to hundreds of television appearances, Jerry has directed and/or starred in films that include: The Nutty Professor, The Ladies Man, The Patsy, Cinderfella, The Errand Boy, The Bellboy, The Family Jewels, The Disorderly Orderly, The Delicate Delinquent, The Caddy, That's My Boy, and Artists and Models.
