Comic actor Lewis leaves hospital

Lewis has suffered a number of health problems in recent years

US actor and comedian Jerry Lewis has left hospital after a three-month stay to wean himself off steroids.

The 77-year-old had been taking the medication for a chronic lung problem, but it had caused him to gain a massive amount of weight.

He has now shed 50 pounds (23kg) and plans to return to the Las Vegas casino where he had been a regular performer.

His publicist, Candi Cazau, said Lewis was "feeling great" and looked back to his old self.

She said that he was now on a new diet and exercise routine since coming off the prescription drugs.

"He looks like Jerry Lewis," Ms Cazua added.

Jerry Lewis teamed up with Dean Martin for their double act

Lewis is best known for his comedy partnership with Dean Martin during the 1950s, before going on to star in films such as The Ladies Man and the original The Nutty Professor.

But in recent years his health has deteriorated and in 2001 he began taking steroids for pulmonary fibrosis.

Recent photos of Lewis showed the side effect of the drug prednisone was that his weight ballooned, leading him to make the decision to slowly stop taking them as his health recovered.

Ms Cazua said Lewis' first show would be at the Orleans Hotel and Casino on 3 March, but it may only be open to family and friends.