The 85-year-old comedian said it was time for a "new telethon era."
In this Sept. 1, 2008 file photo, Jerry Lewis listens to the final tally of donations during the 43rd annual Muscular Dystrophy Association Labor Day Telethon. (AP Photo/Las Vegas Sun)LAS VEGAS (AP) - After 45 years, Jerry Lewis is retiring as host of the Muscular Dystrophy Association's Labor Day telethon.
The 85-year-old comedian and Las Vegas resident issued a statement through the Muscular Dystrophy Association calling it time for a "new telethon era."
He says he'll make his final appearance on the six-hour primetime telethon Sept. 4 by performing his song "You'll Never Walk Alone."
Lewis says he'll continue as the association's national chairman, a role he's held since the early 1950s.