Joe E. Lewis was born on December 1, 1902, in New York City, NY. He showed an interest in performing from a young age and began his career in comedy and singing in the 1930s. Lewis quickly made a name for himself in the entertainment industry, catching the attention of some notorious figures along the way.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Joe E. Lewis's life was his friendship with the infamous gangster, Al Capone. The two were close companions, with Lewis even appearing in Capone's clubs to perform. However, their friendship was put to the test when Lewis refused Capone's order to perform at the Green Mill Cocktail Lounge. This decision nearly cost him his life and led to tensions between the two friends.
In 1957, Frank Sinatra played Joe E. Lewis in the film "The Joker is Wild." The movie depicted Lewis's life, including his friendship with Al Capone and his struggles in the entertainment world. It was a significant moment for Lewis, as his story was brought to a wider audience through the film.
Both Al Capone and rival gangsters saw potential in Joe E. Lewis's talent and wanted him to perform in their clubs. Lewis's ability to entertain and captivate audiences made him a sought-after performer in the underworld. Despite the dangers that came with associating with these figures, Lewis continued to pursue his career in entertainment.
In 1946, Joe E. Lewis married actress Martha Stewart. However, their marriage was short-lived, ending in divorce just two years later. Despite the challenges in his personal life, Lewis remained focused on his career and continued to entertain audiences with his comedic and musical performances.
One of Joe E. Lewis's notable experiences was touring with Ray Bolger in the USO. The two entertainers traveled to military bases to bring laughter and joy to service members. It was a meaningful experience for Lewis, who valued the opportunity to show his appreciation for the brave men and women serving in the armed forces.
In conclusion, Joe E. Lewis's life was filled with both triumphs and challenges. From his friendship with Al Capone to his successful career in entertainment, Lewis left a lasting impact on the industry. His story serves as a reminder of the power of perseverance and passion in the face of adversity.