MDA Telethon Begins with Tribute to Jerry Lewis
The annual Muscular Dystrophy Association telethon wasted no time in offering a tribute to its longtime host, Jerry Lewis, and potentially defusing any backlash or disappointment with his absence. Jerry Lewis won't host this year's telethonAfter a dance performance opened the show, Lewis' replacements — Nigel Lythgoe, Jann Carl, Alison Sweeney and Nancy O'Dell — took the stage and immediately took turns talking about the comedian/filmmaker's five-decade commitment to raising money for a cure. Huge photos of Lewis at various stages of his career served as a backdrop on stage as they talked.
