Oscars to honor Jerry Lewis

Jerry Lewis will receive the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award at the 81st Academy Awards on Feb. 22.

The honor, given as an Oscar statue, is awarded to a person in the motion picture industry whose humanitarian efforts have brought credit to the industry.

"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," Sid Ganis, president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, said in an announcement.

Lewis, an actor, director, writer and producer, has helped to raise more than $2 billion - yes, billion - through his work with the Muscular Dystrophy Association.