The Real Jerry Lewis Story

By: Rick Saphire, Sheila Saphire M.Ed., Wendy Weiss - editor, Donald Davis Esq - editor, Joyce Avrach - editor, Gary Lewis - foreword

Narrated by: Mark Haltzman, Rick Saphire, Sheila Saphire, Linda Pierce

The Real Jerry Lewis Story, penned by Rick Saphire, who notably served as Jerry Lewis’s personal manager, offers an intimate and detailed portrait of the legendary comedian. Saphire’s unique vantage point provides listeners with exclusive behind-the-scenes insights that only someone closely associated with Lewis could offer.

The book navigates through various stages of Lewis’s illustrious career, shedding light on his comedic genius, professional triumphs, and personal challenges. Saphire paints a balanced picture, celebrating Lewis’s contributions to comedy and entertainment while also delving into the complexities of his personality and the difficulties he faced.

One of the standout features of the book is Saphire’s anecdotal storytelling. His first-hand accounts and vivid descriptions bring Jerry Lewis to life, making listeners feel as though they are witnessing the events unfold in real-time. These personal stories and reflections add depth and authenticity to the narrative, allowing listeners to gain a deeper understanding of who Jerry Lewis was beyond his public persona.

Saphire’s writing is engaging and accessible, making the book a compelling listen for both fans of Jerry Lewis and those interested in the entertainment industry. Overall, The Real Jerry Lewis Story is a heartfelt tribute and a sharp, insightful biography.

Rick Saphire successfully encapsulates the essence of Jerry Lewis, crafting a book that is as entertaining as it is enlightening. It stands out as a must-listen for anyone fascinated by the life of one of America’s most iconic entertainers.

©2024 Rick Saphire (P)2025 Rick Saphire

I still do not know who ‘the real’ Jerry Lewis was

There were quite a few editing errors with repeated sentenses and a lot of information about the author and his career and relationship with Jerry. More than a few times it was hinted that the author was a close relation hinting that the author was an love child of Jerry’s or possibly a half brother through Jerry’s father’s affairs but never clarified.
Its pretty obvious through later interviews with Jerry that he was extremely arrogant , sometimes miserable especially when he was being medically treated for cystic lung disease, weight gain through steroids treatments. He was intolerant of ignorence His unloving behavior towards all his sons and denial of his biological daughter.
There were specific instances of his cruelty
But not a whole lot of surprises in this book that wasnt previously revealed through interviews on you tube. He was an openly admitted womanizer and control freak
But also a tormented adult from a loveless childhood. He was ignored by his parents and shoveled from relative to relative. So one could say he was given a poor examples as a child of what a father should be, or how to respect women, His hidden insecurity and his addiction to being admired and feeling loved is a product of the unloved child.
I will always appreciate his talent, for filling my childhood with laughter and his humanitarianism regardless of motive.

I was interested in the story

poorly written. so many names given that had no bearing on the story and only confused the listener. poor self narrative. no expression in reading. run together or repetitive sentences. you can literally hear page turning while reading. the narrator gives no infection to words