Joe E. Lewis Quotes

A collection of quotes by Joe E. Lewis.

Joe E. Lewis was an American comedian, singer, and actor, born on January 12, 1902, in New York City. Known for his quick wit and sharp sense of humor, Lewis became a popular entertainer during the mid-20th century. He began his career as a singer in the 1920s, performing in vaudeville shows and nightclubs across the country.

Lewis gained significant fame in the 1930s, joining the rat pack of entertainers that included Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr. He often performed in notable venues like the Latin Quarter in New York and the Copacabana in Chicago. Lewis' unique brand of comedy combined observational humor with biting one-liners, making him a favorite among audiences.

However, tragedy struck in 1947 when Lewis was brutally attacked by thugs hired by Chicago mob boss Frankie Diamond, who had taken offense to the comedian's jokes. The attack left Lewis with a severed vocal cord, resulting in a permanently changed voice and a lighter, raspy speaking style. Undeterred, Lewis continued to work as an entertainer, adapting to his new vocal limitations.

Throughout his career, Lewis appeared in several films, including the 1957 biopic "The Joker Is Wild," where he portrayed himself. Despite his adversities, Lewis remained a beloved figure in the entertainment industry until his death on June 4, 1971, in Los Angeles, California. He left behind a legacy as a resilient and talented performer, remembered for his sharp wit and enduring humor.