Ira Lewis facts for kids

Ira Lewis Metsky (born August 27, 1932 – died April 4, 2015) was an American actor, writer, and playwright. He was most famous for writing a play called Chinese Coffee. This play was performed in a theater in 1992 and starred the well-known actor Al Pacino. Later, in 2000, Chinese Coffee was made into a movie. Ira Lewis wrote the movie's script, and Al Pacino also directed it.

About Ira Lewis

Early Life and Career

Ira Lewis was born on August 27, 1932, in Newark, New Jersey. He loved acting and studied it to become a professional. His first big role on Broadway was in a play by Arthur Miller called Incident at Vichy.

In 1965, Ira Lewis traveled around with a play called Long Day’s Journey Into Night. This helped him gain more experience as an actor.

His Famous Play

Ira Lewis is best known for his play, Chinese Coffee. This play was very popular and opened in a theater in 1992. A famous actor, Al Pacino, starred in the play.

Later, in 2000, Chinese Coffee was turned into a movie. Ira Lewis wrote the script for the movie. Al Pacino not only acted in the movie but also directed it. Another actor, Jerry Orbach, also starred in the film.

Movies and TV Shows

Besides his plays, Ira Lewis also appeared in several movies and TV shows. He worked as an actor for many years, from 1955 to 2004.

Here are some of the films and TV shows he was in:

• Personal Sergeant (2004)
• Loose Cannons (1990)
• Tough Guys Don't Dance (1987)
• The Equalizer (1987)
• Rollover (1981)
• Woman of Valor (1977)
• What's So Bad About Feeling Good? (1968)
• The Flesh Eaters (1964)
• Soft Skin on Black Silk (1959)
• The Phil Silvers Show (1957)
• I Spy (1955)

Later Life

Ira Lewis lived in Westfield, New Jersey. He passed away on April 4, 2015, in Edison, New Jersey. He was 82 years old.