Jerry Lee Lewis: The Rock ‘n’ Roll Legend Whose Life Was a Rollercoaster of Scandal

Jerry Lee Lewis, a name synonymous with rock and roll, passed away at the age of 87 on October 28, 2022, leaving behind a legacy that was as tumultuous as it was iconic.

Known for chart-topping hits like “Great Balls of Fire,” “Breathless,” and “Crazy Arms,” Lewis's life was filled with both musical genius and personal controversy, making him a fascinating figure in the history of American music.

Throughout his lifetime, Lewis was married seven times, a testament to his tumultuous personal life.

However, it was his third marriage to his first cousin once removed, Myra Gale Brown, when she was just 13 years old, that truly sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry.

The scandal erupted in 1957, leading to boycotts of his music and a significant decline in his concert fees, which plummeted from a staggering $10,000 per performance to a mere $250.

Their wedding took place on December 12, 1957, when Myra was still a child, believing in Santa Claus.

In an almost surreal twist, the couple moved in with her parents shortly after tying the knot.

When Lewis embarked on his first European tour, he infamously misled the British press about his new bride's age, claiming she was 15.

This deception backfired spectacularly when the truth emerged, branding him as a cradle-robber and sparking calls for his deportation from the UK.

The fallout from the scandal didn't just remain across the pond; it followed Lewis back to the United States, where his reputation took a significant hit.

Compounding the chaos, Lewis's second marriage to Jane Mitcham had not been officially dissolved before he wed Myra, prompting the couple to hold a second ceremony on June 4, 1958, to legitimize their union.

In a bid to salvage his public image, Lewis even published an open letter in Billboard, expressing his desire for acceptance of their relationship.

Despite their rocky start, Lewis and Myra welcomed two children into the world, Steve and Phoebe.