Jerry Lewis relied on pain medications for more than 10 years
Joseph Lewis is not the only member of the Lewis family who struggles with addiction. His father also struggled with substance abuse in the 1960s and 1970s. The comedian reportedly began taking drugs after he injured his back and needed medication to relieve the pain.
Jerry became dependent on the product, and he used it for more than 10 years. Fans couldn’t tell that the star was different when he appeared in front of a camera or performed. Lewis battled an addiction behind the scenes that wouldn’t let him go.
Jerry attempted to take his own life after his struggle with substance abuse
You can lose your life if you are addicted to such substances. You only have to take more than is recommended and the situation could get very bad. Jerry Lewis was on the brink of suicide in 1973.
He was ready to end everything. It was his 29th anniversary. Instead of celebrating with his wife, he was hiding in the bathroom. He was on medication and had a weapon in his mouth, ready to end this world. He was apparently brought to his senses after hearing his children laugh in the hallway.
