Nancy Kaszerman/ZUMApress.comJerry Lewis' soft heart has earned him some hardware.
The King of Comedy star has been tapped to receive the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award at next year's Oscar ceremony in honor of his tireless work on behalf of the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
Lewis, who has presided over his namesake Labor Day telethon since 1966, will be on hand to accept his little gold man Feb. 22 at the 81st Annual Academy Awards.
"Jerry is a legendary comedian who has not only brought laughter to millions around the world but has also helped thousands upon thousands by raising funds and awareness for those suffering from muscular dystrophy," said Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences president Sid Ganis.
The original Nutty Professor's annual telethon has raised more than $2 billion for the cause over the years. Lewis also received the Governor's Award at the 2005 Emmys for his philanthropic efforts.