Jerry Lester - Actor Profile

Jerry Lester

Acting
Freshness: Jan 22, 2026
8Total Films
7.0 Highest Rated
Born: Feb 16, 1910
Birth Place: Chicago, Illinois, USA

About Jerry Lester

Jerry Lester (February 16, 1910 – March 23, 1995) was an American comedian, singer and performer on radio, television and the stage, who hosted the first network late night television program as host of Broadway Open House on NBC, a vaudeville-esque combination of comedy and music, whose success demonstrated the potential for late-night television and led to the creation of the Tonight Show.

Career Statistics & Market Influence

Analyzing the cinematic journey of Jerry Lester reveals a career defined by diverse artistic exploration. With a total of 8 major appearances, the actor has established a significant footprint in global cinema.

Genre Dominance: Comedy

The majority of Jerry Lester's filmography leans towards the Comedy genre. Audience data suggests that viewers respond most favorably to this persona, though their versatility has allowed for successful crossovers into other categories.

The "Box Office" Signature

With a 25% Success Ratio (movies rated above 6.5), Jerry Lester remains a reliable draw for studios. Their peak performance was recorded in Arizona to Broadway, which continues to be the benchmark for their career rating-wise.

Best Jerry Lester Movies Ranked

Must-watch hits from Jerry Lester's career based on audience ratings.

★7.0
Arizona to Broadway (1933) movie poster
★7.0

Arizona to Broadway: A team of con men trying to double-cross a woman they are supposedly helping to get some stolen money back wind up getti

Arizona to Broadway

1933•Crime
★7.0
Odds and Evens (1978) movie poster
★7.0

Odds and Evens: A bumbling government agent recruits a trucker whose gambling knowledge can help crack an illegal Florida operation.

Odds and Evens

1978•Comedy
★6.2
Mickey's Gala Premiere (1933) movie poster
★6.2

Mickey's Gala Premiere: Mickey's film is having a premiere, and all the stars turn out at the Chinese Theatre. Among those shown: Laurel and Har

Mickey's Gala Premiere

1933•Animation
★5.6
Smokey and the Bandit II (1980) movie poster
★5.6

Smokey and the Bandit II: The Bandit goes on another cross-country run, transporting an elephant from Florida to Texas. And, once again, Sheriff B

Smokey and the Bandit II

1980•Action
★4.6
Hardly Working (1980) movie poster
★4.6

Hardly Working: In Jerry Lewis's first film in a decade, he plays Bo Hooper, an unemployed circus clown who can't seem to hold down a jo

Hardly Working

1980•Comedy

Complete Filmography & Success Status

Tracking the career evolution and box office verdicts of Jerry Lester.

YearMovieCharacterSuccessMore
1980 Smokey and the Bandit II Warehouse Guard Average Similar →
1980 Hardly Working Slats Flop Similar →
1978 Odds and Evens Mike Firpo Hit Similar →
1973 The Godmothers Ricky Mastrasso Flop Similar →
1959 The Rookie Jerry Mann Flop Similar →
1942 Sleepytime Gal Downbeat Flop Similar →
1933 Arizona to Broadway Jimmy Dante Hit Similar →
1933 Mickey's Gala Premiere Maurice Chevalier / Ed Wynne / Jimmy Durante (voice) Average Similar →

Jerry Lester - Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best movie of Jerry Lester?

According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Jerry Lester is "Arizona to Broadway" with a rating of 7.0/10.

How many movies has Jerry Lester acted in?

Jerry Lester has been featured in at least 8 major films throughout their career.

What are some other popular movies by Jerry Lester?

Other notable films include "Odds and Evens", "Mickey's Gala Premiere", and "Smokey and the Bandit II".