Lewis berates modern stand-up

Jerry Lewis has complained that there is too much bad language in comedy.

The American legend also says that some topics are off-limits to comics - including the Queen.

Lewis is making a rare appearance in London on Sunday, appearing on the London Palladium stage where he first played with Dean Martin 50 years ago.

The 76-year-old said: "Comedians are getting away with the kind of language they wouldn't have got away with before. A talented comic doesn't need to talk dirty. Look at Robin Williams. It's the same with Billy Crystal or Steve Martin.

"I'm not a prude, I can be as dirty as anyone else. It has to be the right time and place."

He also told London's Time Out magazine that he could see no humour in using the aftermath of September 11 as material.

"Certain things are sacrosanct. Some things you can't joke about. I would never make a joke about Her Majesty The Queen."

Jerry Lewis is headlining a fundraiser on Sunday to raise money for Turning Point Scotland, which helps drug addicts.

Fellow US comedians Emo Philips, Bobcat Goldthwait and Eight Legged Freaks star Rick Overton are also on the bill, alongside Perrier winner Daniel Kitson, Earl Okin and Boothby Graffoe.

For tickets, priced £15 to £60, call the box office on 020 7494 5054.

Published: 2 Sep 2002