Veteran comedian Jerry Lewis’ Labor Day Telethon was a great success in terms of contributions however, a “bad choice of words” has cast a shadow on the event.

Jerry Lewis apologized Tuesday for making an anti-gay slur during his traditional Labor Day Telethon for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

Jerry’s use of the word “faggot” angered Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD), who demanded an apology from the aging actor.

GLAAD President Neil Giuliano called Jerry’s remark “simply unacceptable” in a statement. The actor replied by saying he had made a “bad choice of words” and asked to be forgiven.

The Muscular Dystrophy Association’s 42nd Jerry Lewis Labor Day Telethon set a record of $63,759,478 in contributions and pledges this Monday, $3 million more than last year’s.

Televised from the South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa in Las Vegas, the event included a comedic moment from Lewis who introduced imaginary family members to the camera.

“Oh, your family has come to see you,” the actor said. “You remember Bart, your oldest son, Jesse, the illiterate fag ....” Jerry stopped mid-word, immediately said “No” and turned away from the camera.

The clip however remained and attracted GLAAD’s disapproval.

In yesterday’s apologetic statement, the 81-year-old veteran actor explained that he was making “a joking comment to a member of my production team,” and apologized “to anyone who was offended.”

“Everyone who knows me understands that I hold no prejudices in this regard,” he said. He added, “I accept responsibility for what I said. There are no excuses.”

According to TMZ, GLAAD has formally accepted Jerry’s apology, issuing a statement of its own to the celebrity gossip web site.

“GLAAD thanks Jerry Lewis for his swift and direct apology for this incident. We join millions of Americans in applauding the important work of the Muscular Dystrophy Association and wish MDA and Mr. Lewis much continued success in their efforts.”

Jerry Lewis helped establish the MDA in the early 1950s and is the association’s National Chairman. He has been the star of the Labor Day Telethon since 1966. He initially hosted the event with singer and comedic partner Dean Martin and then continued solo.

“I'm deeply grateful for the incredible generosity and support of the American public,” Jerry Lewis said Monday, when the fund-raising event had already gathered $63 million. “Each year they outdo themselves in supporting our quest for cures for diseases that steal the strength - and the lives - of 'my kids.'”