Jerry Lewis Dick Cavett 1973

[@dougtaylor2803]

What strikes me as this interview continues is simply the fact that in 1973 a show could devote this much time to one guest. It is a shame this does not exist today on network television.

[@badmiddens]

So true. To see this kind of long form interview, the Joe Rogan podcast is great.

[@jennifersman7990]

Say what you want about him but Larry King’s show on Hulu is very good too

[@badmiddens]

I will definitely check that out, thanks! Some may be rubbed the wrong way by King but to really watch him interview, he is a master of the technique.

[@michaelbill123]

Gary Taylor I agree 100%. However, it also exposes there are no hosts or Interviewers worth a Shiff. There are no late night hosts as intelligent or knowledgeable as Dick Cavett either.

[@michaelbill123]

badmiddens Joe Rogan is a sell out shill. He abandons patriot friends in order to become rich and try to be relevant. He will wake up one day when it’s too late.

[@nitahiltner3348]

When I was a kid my parents would drop my sisters and me at the movies, and everytime we went to see Jerry, the seats were full and we had to watch from the back of the theatre (and this was a huge theatre) standing up the whole time. He was so popular and even more so in France where he was considered a genius. I loved him so much.

[@amsedelm]

Absolutely riveting interview. I had no idea Jerry was so insightful and intelligent. I gained a new respect for the man.

[@jamesmick8653]

He's even deeper. Check out his contributions to cinematography.

[@hunterburk]

He’s also an arrogant ass and was a shit father abandoning all 6 of his sons and completely disinheriting them from his will. A horrible person

[@howardsternssmicrophone9332]

I loved how he pulled out his pantomime schtick when they came back from commercial around the 33 minute mark. Also, You'd never see modern day celebrities answering questions from the audience this day and age. We live in shallow times this day and age.

[@1pottercounty]

I really appreciate these interview shows from the 1970’s. They take my mind back to a time that was in focus and made good common sense. Where people displayed good morals & were polite to one another..

[@WintersWar]

Amazing how sometimes lewis rubs me the wrong way, but he also possessed enormous wisdom.

[@barrycuda3769]

My thoughts exactly, I miss those days.

[@blondie4512]

Jerry was such a genuine comedian that could turn it on and off so easily... smoothly... unlike some of the other comedians to this day, he was very good and handsome too... Loved his interactions with the audience and always loved his work with MD.. his marathons.. he was a good man..

[@scottmiller6495]

I agree but some creepy people are telling tales about his dealings with his family! True or not it's nobody's business and furthermore everyone has a dark side! As far as his contributions to the entertainment industry he was superb and a brilliant man and a great Humanitarian plus his work with Muscular Dystrophy that nobody talks about anymore was astounding! His Telethons for over 40 years was epic and incredible! As far as I'm concerned Jerry Lewis was a Phenomenal person with talent like you'll Never Ever See Again Ever PERIOD!!!!!

[@paulcolbourne9112]

I think one of Dick Cavett's secrets to success is his positive looking, confident flippancy. He takes every remark in the best way possible. Even when encountering criticism or malice, without an ounce of ego, he agrees it might be true and it rolls off his back. He moves through things without effort or resistance. He depends on civility in a worst case scenario. He's immensely likeable in that regard.

[@robyntattersall236]

I have to agree with your assessment. I find myself wanting to hear more from Dick because he does have an uplifting effect on the viewer … perhaps we are missing that in 2023

[@mazsroy9]

Yes. Well stated. Agreed

[@annette2326]

He was a writer for Johnny Carson. When he got his show Johnny wished him well. He didn't sabotage him at all.

[@ChilliCheezdog]

Nobody interviewed like Jerry. There's something hypnotic about him. Working in Hollywood would doubtless have honed his conversational skills to a razor's edge. Damn, I said something rather intelligent.

[@leandrocoelho5394]

I was brought up down here in Brazil wacthing Jerry Lewi´s movies. He made my childhood a lot happier. He was a god.

[@t18amgr]

RIP. This man's work on MD helped my deceased sister so much. Bless all your work.

[@piesusan17]

My street use to put on a Muscular Dystrophy Carnival every year when I was a child. He helped raise a tremendous amount of money. One of my friends was very grateful for the assistance.

[@jaik195701]

Even when he was broke he never borrowed money from his charity

[@BillMorganChannel]

@@jaik195701 Even when he invented the light bulb, he was humble.

[@marywestfall6775]

@@piesusan17 qqqq+ZZZZ

[@TheRossman70]

BILLIONS of 1950s 60s and 70s dollars went in, would be 50 billion today? We still have Muscular Dystrophy......... smdh. RIP Mr. Lewis.

[@cathyandresiak]

Jerry Lewis, a comedic genius,.I never realized he was so tall, attractive and intelligent! I used to watch his movies when I was 5 years old and he used to make me laugh so much!

[@GodFeeRnWMN7]

@marym5037; @theteal123; and @cathyandresiak; CINDER-FELLA

[@richardchristopher1228]

Lewis was 6 feet. Cavett was five foot six inch.

[@zenpaganwarrior]

Best TV talk show ever. What a treasure to have these old episodes posted by the Dick Cavett channel or people like you, Archy! Thank you.

[@caroltaylor9853]

Love Jerry Lewis or hate Jerry Lewis, he is now part of showbiz history. He left his mark. Jerry Lewis will not be forgotten. He was enormously successful and a precious human being. He was always my favorite and he always will be. I heard Jerry say that his entire career could be viewed on KZbin. I believe it and I am loving it!! Amazing man who lived an amazing life. I miss him. RIP 💗

[@caroltaylor9853]

By this time, 1973, Jerry Lewis had been in the business since he was 16 years old...1942. that's 31 years..... holy moly. He was so handsome and amazing!

[@bigdawg7703]

I use to watch Dick Cavett show religiously when young. Even today no one in my opinion is a equal to him as a talk show host. Not just talk show. He was such a extremely intelligent perspicacious individual who delves into his quest with such a inquisitive sui generis style. Thanks to who post these wonderful snippits into my past.

[@trevorpat-lifeontherun]

I have never seen Mr Cavett before, and when he first came on in this interview I thought I wouldn't watch it, but gradually I began recognizing his lovely relaxed style, and finished up being very impressed by his interviewing skills.

[@d.e.p.5624]

See more interviews in his show. He was great!

[@mantis10_surf85]

No Sh*t Sherlock. Dick Cavett was way better than the phony interviewers of today

[@ernestblock4801]

​@@mantis10_surf85 DAAMMMM... Aggressive much?!

[@leroyholm9075]

Stunning Interview, great credit to the genius of Jerry Lewis and the ability of Dick Cavett to put guests at ease and provide them with the space and consideration that they truly deserve.

[@inrainbowman]

genius penis lewis

[@KevinWickerProductions]

I feel this was the best interview I've ever seen on Jerry Lewis. He was truthful, but always positive. There were moments when he shared a lot of meaningful insight and wisdom. As someone who spent many years behind the scenes in showbiz myself, I was struck by his insight and integrity. It may be true that there was a much darker side to Mr. Lewis. But he is allowed that as a human being. He was an incredibly gifted man, with a good heart. A one-of-a-kind artist who comes along very rarely.

[@jadezee6316]

maybe he was to his fans..but i wonder what his family and closest associates would say

[@Better_Call_Raul]

It is one of the most articulate and insightful interviews I ever heard. It is true. That said, his childish straw up his nose gags and squeaky laughs are extremely annoying. Very unnecessary. And very unfunny. He tries so hard to be funny with those gags, but he is not. It is cringeworthy. One can easily see why audiences moved on from him. His comedy is just not funny. In 1970 he released "Which Way To The Front?" which was a huge flop. Nothing else was released for the next 10 years. *One released film in 10 years for a man who boasts of working `18 months and 20 hours a day on a film??* *Ouch!* ☹ Also have to wonder which films he claims audiences in Europe were currently lining up to see in 1973. It certainly was not any of his newer films as he released only one film between 1970-1980. Sorry. Just not buying the "Europeans love me and I am underappreciated here." narrative. No. American audiences just moved on from your tired out-dated style of comedy. A brilliant man who clearly failed to change with the times and adapt his comedy to more sophisticated and mature audiences. OTOH, he simply may not have had the talent to do a comedic monologue like Woody Allen. Hence he had to fall back on the same tired sophomoric routines he was doing in 1949.

[@Better_Call_Raul]

Jerry claims his partners initially rejected his film and wanted changes and he simply re-sequenced the film and they then approved it. He is likely exaggerating but maybe that is basically true. But then he claims that he changed the film to its original version and released that version. The same version that his partners initially rejected was released. Don't believe that story. Producers can't be that clueless.

[@marionsmith-williams4324]

Um...you may want to do a bit of research into how he was honored in Europe. ​@@Better_Call_Raul

[@VENUS.SE7EN]

I miss him so much. Jerry Lewis is one of the main reasons why I decided to go to film school. Still can't believe he's gone. RIP. Love you so much. Thank you for the childhood laughs, and adult aspirations.

[@lynn1464]

I feel the same way too man I love watching his movies so funny. TV was so great back then. Jerry Lewis would do his own Falls no stand oh stunt double like today. Sadly enough all those pratfalls were hard on his health.

[@gracieg7601]

I never watch the telethon anymore. We used to have telethon parties at my house. Back in the 70s, my child was very little, born in 1971. So I wasn’t going out allot. Cause we were racing boats and my husband was a engineer builder. We lived out on the ranch so people were at our house all the time. So all kinds of parties when we were home then we were gone allot.

[@gracieg7601]

Elvis loved comedians and loved Dean Martin too. I think it’s too bad that Elvis didn’t get to go to the telethon. I think Jerry would have loved that.

[@JimboWas-here]

Jerry Lewis really did do a wonderful job managing his public image. very warm and approachable, sincere, honest, etc. it wasn't until he was older than he let his guard down for us to realize he was a normal person with frailties...

[@HandsomeSteveJacobson]

He was a scumbag who screwed over his children

[@RalphOnofrio]

Love Jerry....I worked with him once...On the New haven green...I had a 3 man band...Before he went on he asked our names.....After his bit, he said...''Nice working with you kids..Ralph,Johnny,Jack...Be well'' I was amazed he remembered our names.But I found out that was a gift he had...Hr addressed every crew member every day on a movie set....Amazing.

[@rosedaddona4262]

He was friends with my father and my Uncles So he used to get me an ice cream cone and teach me to tap dance. I can still do it..rip Uncle jerry.

[@marklentine8793]

When I was growing up, I idolized Jerry Lewis… In the last 15-20 years, it’s very obvious that he was not a kind or good man. But that said…he is definitely one of the most amazing and talented performers in history. Bless you Jerry…and for whatever your demons were, thank you for overcoming them…and for entertaining all of us…especially a little kid from South Philly.

[@fullesteemahead7250]

Same. I loved when he was a duo with Martin. I even liked The Big Mouth. He was just so abrasive sounding in person.

[@eddyrobichaud5832]

He didn't over come them he ruined his families life.

[@lucyroth2671]

@@eddyrobichaud5832 And left nothing to ALL of his sons. Sigh...

[@eddyrobichaud5832]

@@lucyroth2671 yes I know 🙁

[@traceysawyer1139]

You can see the twinkle in Jerry’s eye talking to Dick! My Father introduced me to Jerry when I was a small girl. He would come home on leave and we would watch him together. I haven’t seen a JL film on 🇬🇧 terrestrial TV for YEARS - the day my Dad died Cinderfella was on. I miss Jerry and that wonderful era.

[@americanwoman445]

Better life

[@markharrison6498]

Sad he was such a colossal arsehole.

[@cb7324]

I'm reminded of John Travolta at certain moments. Boy is he marvelous. I used to ROAR at his movies when I was young. He was great. This is a wonderful interview. He's very kind. Not only a very talented comedian, but also a talented director, something I didn't know. Astute comment about how American culture has been dulled by entertainment. And he's only 46 here.

[@barbarabowman3328]

Over the years, I've seen Jerry Lewis make so many funny faces and bodily gestures, that I never noticed how nice looking and intelligent he is. Wow!

[@gaysy1st]

I agree. I think he's gorgeous 😊

[@denisechrzanowski1838]

Always thought he was a suave good looking man just like his character Buddy Love❤

[@INYB]

Only thing I noticed is what a total jerk he is

[@gaysy1st]

@@INYB Really? I'm not quite sure what to make of him.

[@INYB]

@@gaysy1st there are numerous stories of him treating staffers, busboy, anyone he thought was beneath him, like 💩

[@frankmarano7530]

My father was the trumpeter in Jerry’s father’s band at Grossingers Resort in Liberty, NY , 1935-1941. I feel like part of Jerry’s family and follow his career.

[@markharrison6498]

He abandoned his family. His daughter is homeless

[@FredMcCubbin]

@@markharrison6498that’s horrible

[@jerrylewisthekid5479]

@@markharrison6498 He didn't abandon anyone!!! HIS CHILDREN WERE ALL ADULTS!!! HE PAID THE RATES FOR HIS EX-WIFE Patti FOR YEARS!!! The daughter who is homeless is She one who wants to be!!! Let's talk about Dean Martin who really ABANDONED HIS FIRST WIFE AND HIS FOUR CHILDREN WHILE THEY STILL BABY TO MARRY THAT WOMAN WHO DESTROYED WEDDINGS!!!!

[@jerrylewisthekid5479]

@@FredMcCubbin He didn't abandon anyone!!! HIS CHILDREN WERE ALL ADULTS!!! HE PAID THE RATES FOR HIS EX-WIFE Patti FOR YEARS!!! The daughter who is homeless is She one who wants to be!!! Let's talk about Dean Martin who really ABANDONED HIS FIRST WIFE AND HIS FOUR CHILDREN WHILE THEY STILL BABY TO MARRY THAT WOMAN WHO DESTROYED WEDDINGS!!!!

[@rachelled6763]

Mr Lewis is certainly impressive. I grew up loving his antics. It's extraordinary to see the perfectionism and intelligence behind the comedy act. So astute and articulate. I am very much in awe and love him very much. Rip Jerry.

[@dannyinaus]

He was hated by his children, prone to angry outbursts, cheated on several wives, and was an all-round asshole according to people who knew him. Yep, impressive.

[@int53185]

Why I like watching Jerry Lewis interviews: His slicked back jet black hair, his sense of style, his humor, and the sense of danger he creates through his self confidence.

[@marym5037]

James Last, love your comment!

[@loriraymond6789]

Dick had a crush on jerry shoes

[@dinahleeloo]

I love this comment. You said it!

[@kashkelly1508]

Many, many, many celebrities in real life completely disappoint! As far as being an entertainer, I can tell you as a child and even now, no one was funnier than Jerry Lewis. His physical comedy was like no one else. Regardless of his personal life, he was one of the GREATS!

[@radkid06]

This is brilliant , love the interview , feel like this was a great time in Jerry Lewis's life , he was established and still in the heart of his life. He is incredibly intelligent, and I find him very handsome here.

[@brucehart2440]

Jerry Lewis was a comedic genius, an intelligent, handsome man and an extraordinary human being ❤️ without ever having the opportunity to cross this man's path, I am privelidged to have experienced his presence through modern media. My heartfelt thanks to you Mr Lewis

[@brucehart2440]

@causaps causaps yeah, I guess you're right..he was as flawed as the rest of us

[@brucehart2440]

@causaps causaps even better that we have jurors to make that decision..

[@CesarHernandez-pd1eb]

He was a terrible and disgusting human being ohh and not funny at all.

[@marym5037]

Jerry’s eyes are absolutely mesmerizing!

[@theteal123]

I never knew that he was so handsome!

[@marym5037]

Oh God! He was always gorgeous! At 25 years old when he was performing with Dean Martin, he used to be the cutest thing that ever lived then he became a gorgeous, sexy man starting in his early 30's until he was well in his 60's honestly

[@DINOLOVER6717]

Check out Buddy in Nutty Professor. That was Jerry in real life basically. Brash, clean, loud mouth. He said he “patterned it after Dean” but nah, that’s him. He’s too cute in that tho...

[@frenchprovincial9602]

I agree he is better looking than Dean Martin, it's because he pulled his face so much in his movies. I think he looks better looking than John Travolta when he was young

[@robertos4420]

I never knew how Gorgeous you were before I saw U, Sherry. 💚 Yeah...I had ta go there. 😏

[@theteal123]

@@robertos4420 Ha, When I was a kid, he was on TV constantly, never thought much about him at all. He sort of got on my nerves. Then I recently watched him on this show and realized how handsome he was. I had to grow up to realize it.

[@jeffreyfarmer8030]

Always liked Cavett. Relaxed, low key sense of humor, insightful questions, & able to go with the flow of the interview, & always respectful to his guests. Overall, a class act!

[@russ7868]

I grew up watching Jerry Lewis. He made me laugh like no other. Roughly around 2014, I got to see him live at a Casino in my home state and he did the typewriter skit right in front of me. I had been laughing up until that moment but when he did a skit that I had seen so many times before, I just teared up because I was watching my idol with my own eyes, doing something that made me laugh when I was a kid. I thought I would laugh again... but I was in such awe, I just lost it. It was an amazing moment for me. I will never forget it. RIP Jerry! You are truly the king of comedy!

[@fifthbusiness1678]

Lovely memories, they really are. I once liked him very much, but Jerry has recently been accused of sexually abusing a number of his female co-stars in the 60s. Not one, but a number of them have come forth with these accusations in a new book.

[@russ7868]

@@fifthbusiness1678 I know what they have said about him. I have also grown to dislike the person after seeing some things for myself... but I have chose to love the entertainer, not the man and I'm not going to allow what others say about him take those memories away from me.

[@fifthbusiness1678]

@@russ7868 Fair enough ... I can respect that.

[@russ7868]

@@fifthbusiness1678 Thank you.

[@danceswithcomicbooks7733]

@@russ7868 but it is too bad. I to liked Jerry Lewis and his comedy. He also treated all his biological children like garbage. That's a fact. It's disappointing to be sure and I find it very hard to watch his movies now without thinking what a terrible person he was to so many around him. That was before these new accusations. Same with Bill Cosby to a much greater degree since he has been alive to face his accusers and is obviously guilty. Yeah some might still admire the entertainer to some degree but it's not so easy after knowing what they really were.

[@ir0n2541]

I don't know this actor, i wasnt born in that era... but there is something charming about these old school actors and those times in general, there is no social media to prance around in. no like buttons no twitter followers... it's as if what they are saying is always sincere and raw, like you are tapping directly into their thoughts unhindered and unmasked.

[@bluesbulletin]

It's great when young people stop to examine the past 👍...you're a rarity.

[@robb7398]

@H Kay Why? All he said was there's something charming about old-school actors and those times. I was around then and I agree.

[@Kwanglebeh]

He was narcissistic creep in real life.

[@jerrylewisthekid5479]

@@Kwanglebeh you are perfect right?

[@andycummings-music]

@@Kwanglebeh read: entertainer.

[@martinsmith500]

Dick Cavett is a great interviewer, he gets his guests to relax and reveal their true selves

[@morganmagill668]

So true....great interviewer that shows respect without trying to upstage

[@40shaffer]

Very underrated, witty talent. He's outlived most of the people he interviewed.

[@7beers]

Sorry to disagree but I think he's awful, in terms of asking good questions.

[@v-town1980]

7beers_ your name says it all.

[@winogirlll]

Ron Pifco I agree.

[@marymazzoni2079]

My whole childhood just lived for a Jerry Lewis movie to come on And watched every marathon

[@Radio_Jingles_55]

Under the right direction of a good skillful interviewer such as Cavett, Jerry Lewis actually reflected and gave good thoughtful answers. I miss shows like Dick Cavett's where an actual conversation took place, and not three minutes of sound bites followed with commercials. Well done Mr Cavett..

[@morganwhite2176]

He was an excessively talented man and communicator. Rare to hear someone talk so intelligently now. Now its just people moaning and talking about abuse and what they didn't get in life, what the think life owes them. No ambition nowadays, I'm young and feel this way.

[@terrenceolivido741]

though they need to be " curated ", some of these old interviews will teach you about the real America. what is happening now ...,, i feel sorry for the kids.

[@morganwhite2176]

@@terrenceolivido741 Yeah and now of course what Kanye and Kim are teaching them is much better!

[@morganwhite2176]

@@jimgz Disgusting racist.

[@terrenceolivido741]

i have to give Kanye a lot of credit - an awful lot as he called out the group that was controlling the mass media. it was easy to prove his point as he was immediately dropped from all mass media. @@morganwhite2176

[@0211571]

I was a bellman back in the early 80s on the elevator he was doing his laaaady Schtick. I thought he was nuts. Turns out he was a great guy who was just performing for me. Really ended up liking him. Great memory

[@robertdunkes3499]

As a child growing up, I always watched his movies . They were highly anticipated because we had no cable and they only came on once a year or maybe twice, not unlike the Beatles Help and Hard days night. Mad Mad Mad Mad World was and still is my favorite ( Jerry was in that)

[@bobjohnson205]

Yes, he ran over Spencer Tracy's hat.

[@joetursi9573]

Funny man, horrible father and husband.

[@b1zook456]

Great piece of TV history, thanks for posting! And RIP to one of the Giants of showbiz, the great Jerry Lewis.

[@JoeCannon1]

The more of these old episodes I see the more I’m convinced television needs the Dick Cavett show today. there is nothing like this on television now. I wonder why

[@truthseek3017]

Dumbing down of society.

[@fortomnicron5436]

I agree. Dick is a perfect gentleman and he is very funny.

[@Rob_Kates]

I enjoyed Cavett very much, also Tom Snyder. Today, people have short attention spans. Also, shows are so packed with commercials.

[@rickrick5041]

@@Rob_Kates Tom Snyder was very good too

[@EmilyTienne]

Yeah, something about that relaxed, smart subtlety funny Cavett style. Loved how his show slowly unpacked his guests for our benefit and enjoyment.

[@SteffanoDucati]

I prefer the CIVILITY of the society I grew up in ....... as opposed to the human sewer we currently find ourselves in ...

[@MichaelSmith-jw8qw]

he looks so good here, so smart and sharp--great filmmaker

[@Frankincensedjb123]

I never really knew much about Jerry Lewis, really before my time, but I've been watching him in interviews / conversations over the last week or so, and I can say one thing: he always seemed to be very present. He was certainly interested in entertaining and being the center of attention, but he never ignored the other people in the room. That takes discipline and consideration, especially for a performer. He's very insightful, logical, level headed, and kind hearted. Much respect.

[@TheBigMclargehuge]

Agreed, I was taken by his dignified and gracious manner.

[@jerrylewisthekid5479]

Artists are ALL self-centered otherwise they wouldn't be in show business. Those who hate Jerry have NEVER made the effort to figure out who he really was. They read the gossip magazines (who make money by defaming people) and think they know everything about him. When they barely know themselves.

[@piesusan17]

@@jerrylewisthekid5479 The criticism comes from people who knew him and worked with him. His opinion about women comedians did not help his image.

[@strangevisions5162]

@@piesusan17 "His opinion about women comedians did not help his image." oh yeah? did you even see the 2016 Ghostbusters !?!?!?

[@piesusan17]

@@strangevisions5162 There are plenty of bad comedies made by men. Gender has nothing to do with funny. Ask Carol Burnett. Watch Lucille Ball and Joan Rivers. Watch Elayne Boosler. I can name others, too.

[@dianewinters8628]

I've been a huge fan of Jerry's since I was a kid. So much talent & so handsome. I just love an intelligent man who doesn't take himself too seriously. I married someone much like him, it was an amazing ride for 35 years.

[@monkeyb1820]

if it was an amazing ride for 35 years, he wasn't like Jerry Lewis. He was like your idealized, fictional 'dream' version of Jerry Lewis.

[@dianewinters8628]

@@monkeyb1820 🤪

[@aussiedownunder4186]

A serious man serious about his trade. And what a trade that made the world laugh so much. RIP JERRY

[@starboard6372]

Even as a kid I would watch this show ... Dick Cavett was terrific. And Jerry Lewis was always actually HANDSOME when he wasn't mugging around.

[@MOVIEHORIZON]

Comic genius and "brilliant" don't even capture JL influence. He wrote, acted, and directed completely out the box. No one has ever come close to copying his "brand" of movies. Zany on screen... deeply insightful and reflective in person.

[@DanyaahlaBanyahawadah777]

I loved Jerry Lewis as a young man! He is very intelligent! ...and a great comic!!!

[@dannyd1572]

Dick Cavett's interview style was above anyone else. Relaxed and conversational.

[@StingWolfpack]

one of the few shows with clean and nice English language, many others mumbled and really couldn't talk at all and they were hosts

[@viralbuthow000]

u not gonna see that today. Not late night.

[@gracieg7601]

Now I like that. Questions from the audience. Lol

[@gracieg7601]

Elvis wanted to go see jerry lewis on the muscular dystrophy telethon one time in Vegas and his guys wouldn’t let him so he sent a check to jerry with Frank Sinatra from Elvis. Elvis wanted to meet Jerry Lewis. I wish they would have let him. I can’t believe Elvis listened and didn’t go. Usually Elvis went when and where he wanted. I think Joe was afraid of Colonel parker. Cause it would mean Elvis saw a audience for free. And parker didn’t want to have Elvis appear free for nothing. He called Frank and sent a check over with him for the telethon.

[@rodneyjhackenflash4865]

And, unlike today's late night ass clowns Dick was never intimidated by letting the star do most of the talking. Also, he was dignified and didn't talk over his guests.

[@deniseharris1615]

Since he's passed, I find myself looking at all Jerry Lewis interviews. Love to see him serious and not being silly. Such a handsome and intelligent man. Can remember being at the drive in with my parents and watching Jerry and Dean from the swings.

[@rexxgarvin8346]

I agree!!

[@rayjr62]

He was a complex man. I still don't understand why he left his sons from his first marriage out of his will.

[@bunnyhop3211]

Some stars do that for some reason. Who knows, maybe he felt they had enough and didn't need more as they were aged 58 up to 74 themselves with families of their own, or he wasn't as rich as he once was and only had his property left for his wife. Does that mean he didn't love them even if they had possible fall outs? Doubt it.

[@stelladevers5334]

@@bunnyhop3211 I think Jerry Lewis was a self absorbed genius, he was talented, but it was always about him, Dean, for him it was family and friends and fun , Dean was a more rounded person, and Jerry was an narcissist psychopath, and I think a big part of his life was lived in anger, and feeling like we did mot appreciate “his genius “

[@yama5182]

He was a SICK S.O.B. …or haven’t you heard…?

[@winogirlll]

Gorgeous man. I fell in love with him as a little girl when I watched Cinderfella and The Nutty Professor. What a looker!!!

[@marym5037]

I know! He was phenomenally gorgeous and sexy!

[@marym5037]

@gold girl Absolutely! He was incredibly sexy...so sad he is gone :(

[@DINOLOVER6717]

I know! As Buddy singing on that piano in Nutty Prof 😍😍🥰🥰 I was like Dean who? Haha jk but still 👍🏽👌🏽👍🏽

[@robertos4420]

I love living in 'The Wine Country'...jealous? 😏

[@andybrown6981]

I love the seriousness - and the comments about wanting to perform

[@musicalBurr]

This is a really wonderful interview. My level of respect and love for Jerry Lewis as gone up a notch just from watching this.

[@rexxgarvin5313]

Jerry was the first of his kind! If you were a child of the 50's and 60's,and you come up with Jerry Lewis,he was the first of his kind to blow the comedy minds of young minds at that time! Jim Carey really carried that ''Jerry'' Rhythm. Nutty Professor is a Master Piece! Style,Color,Music,Drama,Deepness all in One! Love you Jerry! You are Jazzy and Cooll,which makes the inner comedy extreme.......

[@ravenhill_the_crusader_1968]

these old uploads date back, but are like golddust.

[@marysullivan3326]

Thank you for posting!! DC was very underrated....love that '70s shag carpet!!

[@alanaronald244]

Lewis is the bomb. So glad I got to see him when he was in town. Talented beyond ...G-d bless & keep him. He's been terribly misunderstood, as so many of the greats have been. Thanks for posting this.

[@guyfawkes9951]

He certainly was misunderstood. He was an interesting combination of vulnerability and ego. A stunningly intelligent man who played the fool. Very multi-layered personality. A copy of "The Day The Clown Cried" was donated by Jerry to the Smithsonian under the agreement that it not be screened until 2024. I hope to be around to see it. I suspect that might be an important piece of the puzzle.

[@marym5037]

I agree 100% He was a genius in my opinion

[@Flapswgm]

Jerry Lewis was cut from one of God's ribs and that's why he was so gifted. We will never have another Jerry Lewis. As good as Jim Carrey is for the current generation, he is no Jerry.

[@Larry-ks8bo]

I love this entire interview, but my favorite part is at the very end, when Cavette says you haven't promoted anything....and Jerry doesn't. He was there to have a conversation with a friend. A true gentleman and class act.

[@Incognito-vc9wj]

The only man who could interview Miles Davis and make him smile.

[@719co9]

The swagger of Lewis is amazing here! This guy is in complete control!

[@marym5037]

yes

[@dp8134]

Giving the thumbs up to your own bigotry?

[@dp8134]

I imagine you're not too confident. And, in the midst of your anxiety and crippling self-doubt, you've sought to pin your own failures in life upon some arbitrary ethnic category.

[@marym5037]

@@dp8134 very well said!

[@Valkonnen]

@@dp8134 Right, because it's just our imagination that a small segment of the population behaves the same exact way, no matter where in the world where you find them.....Ok , you keep believing that ...There are some that can see, you know?

[@jesseserna8424]

I’m 56 now and Jerry Lewis has been my favorite since I first seen one of his and Dean’s movies as a little kid. I would try to stay up as long as I could when watching the telethons.Jerry Lewis and Elvis was the best in my book! RIP sirs.

[@TheLizardKing1967]

Jerry at 47 years old. He would be 97 years old if he were still alive. Amazing interview.

[@raymondlancaster3355]

He said he was 46.

[@darlenebattle2713]

Interesting.

[@eattherich1111]

Marvelous interview. Dick was such a great interviewer. Jerry is the greatest nerd that ever lived. His comedic genius, and facial expressions were one of a kind. You can also tell he is struggling below the surface. Jerry had so many sides to him. Multifaceted individual. He was one of a kind.

[@ghanasoul]

Interviews like this shows why Dean Martin was more endearing and beloved by audiences. American audiences do NOT care about the technical side of films, studio drama, or how long Jerry took to write a gag etc. They just wanna be entertained! Foreign audiences are much more into the technical side and how things worked. Dean was just a easy goin chill guy that had a vibe that u WANTED to know him, be him and be around him. Jerry didn’t have any of that. However, i do like “the kid” persona in his earlier Martin-Lewis films. That’s the Jerry I’ll always love.

[@VONLMO-mn4xz]

Lewis is a Genius, but then it figures He was a Pisces, the most creative sign in the Zodiac.

[@LenHummelChannel]

Jerry was an incredible comedic talent, ... and a very complicated man and often very conflicted as (a well known) egocentric personality. but he was always interesting to watch and listen to.

[@dantyler6907]

Len Hummel "egocentric"? Perhaps, but I never had that impression. The man had, nonstop, attention lathered on him. Maybe, if he had what is thought of as egocentricity, it was, in fact, more his attempts (and ability) to isolate himself and his family from the incessant poking from the people who looked and longed for attention. The guy (who was lip full of attention) trying to hide from unknowns, who would look, anywher, for attention.

[@TurnerLaraine]

I already posted. But I wanted to respond to your thoughtful comment, because I was thinking the same thing. When he got older, he seemed changed (for lack of better words)--but I thought, he's older and people aren't perfect. Also, many comedians are complicated. Think about Jerry's most famous ifilm, "Nutty Professor." heis counterpart was Buddy Love. Maybe he was revealing another side of himself in that film. Also, want to say I thought Dick Cavett seemed very nice in this interview also. He (Dick Cavett) was more cerebral, but he did a great job with Jerry here.

[@pauldudakadanielthomson8890]

Like the Issac Hayes song Shaft,, "he's a complicated man only his woman understands'' etc.. LOL

[@realRonStubbings]

Or his attempts and absolute ability to isolate himself from his family! Agghh! The beatings, the child abuse, the drug and booze addiction. He was a horses ass not missed by those who knew him! You stink Dan!

[@bunnyhop3211]

Ron Stubbings he wasn't a big drinker, you're getting confused. He got addicted to the prescription painkillers that he took for a chronic back injury. He was a disciplinarian like others in the 50's, but also wasn't afraid to hug and kiss his kids. He was off working a lot, but if his wife said the boys missed him he would get a flight home in between shows, even if for an hour or two. He loved his family whatever you choose to think. Telling Dan he stinks sure says something about you though.

[@MrYatesj1]

Jerry was so beautiful inside and out. So intriguing and introspective. Great interview

[@reuben854]

You definitely didn't know him.

[@garyinkin4834]

What a fabulously articulate and sincere man Gerry Lewis was. We [in England] only ever got to see him playing the fool in his films and I remember how my family and myself rolled about laughing whenever he was performing. As usual Dick Cavett brings out the best in his guests.

[@bobjohnson205]

And Jerry Lewis wasn't too bad, either! Lol

[@basilwatkins6941]

I remember the GREAT JERRY LEWIS, one of my all time fovorite acting legends of the past. I was privileged as a kid to see him on stage back in hollywood way back in a day and how lucky I was to experience that. He was truly and really a great multidimensional extraordinary and extremely talented human being.

[@valoreeday4344]

Jerry Lewis, you are one of a kind! May you rest in peace, you were well-liked and well- loved, I just watched this in 2017 and really enjoyed this interview. Thank-you Dick Cavett for a job well done. Thanks for posting this. Jerry gave such great performances in all of his movies, I sure hope to run across some again.

[@eclecticx]

Classy, intelligent, and engrossing TV. Seeing this, it's plain that television has fallen a long, long way.

[@williamalford4248]

So gracious, impeccably dressed, a true gentleman. He exuded class. They don't make them like this anymore.

[@ronaldmason7053]

Behind the scenes Lewis abused and sexually assualted women!

[@williamalford4248]

@@ronaldmason7053 Nobody's perfect. We allowed Trump to become President with the same character flaws.

[@carolinekirby1587]

@@williamalford4248don’t forget Bill Clinton was made President after he raped Juanita Broaddrick! Fact.

[@lorihill2948]

LOL, such a funny comment@@williamalford4248

[@americanwoman445]

@@ronaldmason7053 Men are men and always will be, it's up to the woman to conduct herself with class and self respect. People need to stop blaming the man all the time, plenty of women throw themselves at successful men.

[@ericerickson8479]

He was a very good actor , and there will never be another like him. I still watch ,way way under. It makes me feel so better when I'm not my self.

[@Eliandro264]

Wow I didn't know that Jerry had such a swag!

[@spaceengineer1452]

He certainly didn’t save his children. He totally abandoned them.

[@worldsbesttarot]

I LOVE JERRY LEWIS SO MUCH ALL MY LIFE I LOVED HIM

[@mwj5368]

I quit watching television when I was 14 yrs old, in 1968. Over the years that followed my relatives or someone would call me when Dick Cavett was on, and other times I'd stop in passing and see some television, like Jerry's telethon. We lived in a rural area and one car, low budget, etc, and rarely went to a movie. I saw Jerry's movies if they were on national television. We could receive 2 channels from our antenna on top of an old windmill tower. I laughed hardest ever with Jerry's movies. Dick Cavett was always great and would be nice if he for a few stints returned to have a show now and then. I never knew about Jerry other than seeing him in his movies. I never knew how intelligent and captivating he was in person. Dick has a way to bring out one's personality, their best, and also can ask very penetrating and incisive questions at times yet in a very nonchalant and nonthreatening manner, and of course had a brilliant sense of humor. I liked this interview and conversation between two very astounding men. Thanks for sharing all the Dick Cavett interviews!

[@KansaiTeacher]

I’ve only recently discovered Cavett. Pure excellence. I only remember Lewis from my childhood but he seems an very interesting man.

[@LilyGazou]

Cavett is still writing. I used to see him around Montauk ( a very small town) but he now lives in Connecticut. I hope he lives happily to 100. I loved his shows as a kid- I learned so much.

[@SuperFiveo]

His devotion to MD alone makes him one of the greatest Americans ever. RIP Mr. Lewis.

[@svdumitrescu]

One of a kind. Each of the two, in his own right. Couldn't believe Jerry Lewis was such a refined, deep thinker, a true intellectual. As of Dick Cavett it's talk show academy.

[@gwarlow]

11:39 One of many brilliantly understated observations by Jerry Lewis. Thanks so much for sharing this amazing interview! Cheers.

[@bobbydazzler1780]

This interview is fascinating. I only vaguely knew this man where he was being crazy with the mad high pitched comedy voice. He comes across as very intelligent and thoughtful and had an amazing rapport with the audience so natural and charismatic. Skip reading his career history he was very much a man in demand. Will have to explore more about him. He speaks very fluently and honestly. Maybe the old school Jersey guys are very up front and transparent. And he had such a great warm smile. Stars of this character and talent are few and far between. Just read the Errol Flynn biography / there appear to be some parallels; but in a good way.

[@danno8322]

He has such great Hair !! Always, right to the end!!

[@devondicker3516]

Jerry Lewis is one of those extremely talented individuals in the entertainment business. In front of the camera and behind the camera. He created video-assist and his work on screen has been legendary! I grew up with Jerry Lewis and Bob Hope. Now seeing him here he shows incredible class! An awesome human being.

[@susantunbridge4612]

Hope detested him, and so did Bing Crosby

[@diannerussell9653]

His brilliance is greatI’ve always loved Jerry Lewis and his movies ihe is a brilliant actorI’ve never seen him in interviews before it blew my mind what a highly intelligent man Jerry Lewis was

[@idesofmarchUNIAEA]

It's good to see him behind the scenes. You can make your own assessments of the type of person he is. What a great guy. He raised billions with a B, for MDA. That is amazing. Like Lucille Ball who made billions of people laugh, he helped millions of people. How many people can say that today? People are usually into what they are doing for themselves.

[@marysullivan3326]

your right...very well put. Nice positive thought

[@susantunbridge4612]

The MDA board had to fire him.

[@alexandercahoulan6583]

one of best interviews I've ever seen. Im 30 and I love Cavett from watching old KZbin episodes. Id rather see him interview someone than Carson. Just the reality of it.

[@jasonfrost2487]

Jerry Lewis! He could never get enough of... Jerry Lewis!

[@brianrussel6012]

(guest); This is a surprisingly interesting interview. I never liked Jerry's zany humour much, but this long conversation puts a whole new light on his personality... The interviewer is very good. ☺

[@tomchris60]

Ironically, Lewis' career was at a low ebb at the time of this interview. Despite criticizing empty-suit executives, Jerry's movie career had cratered. A few years earlier, his NBC variety show was cancelled after two seasons. It's fascinating how many people here have commented about Jerry's good looks. If Jerry had gotten over his ego, he could have re-invented himself with different, leading man-types roles. That said, I'll always love the mam.

[@davidperreaux1348]

Remember that the audience q&a segment lasted through at least one commercial break and the clips from his early movie were not cut short whatsoever. It was an enjoyable and very enlightening interview. His age here defies his intelligence and knowledgeability. I have much greater respect for him now. I think those who would seek to say anything bad about him, just shut the hell up.

[@foxdogjake]

I love the high quality, thanks.

[@americanwoman445]

Jerry was a very good looking man, my grandmother met him once and hugged him, she says he smelled so good.

[@markharrison6498]

He let his children go homeless

[@MeMeDaVinci]

Lewis was incredibly intelligent in motion picture making and about the business of show business. This is a great interview.

[@greglarsen1]

God do I miss when men actually were men.

[@kenlieck7756]

So what are you now?