Lee Meriwether: From Miss America to Hollywood Icon and Lifelong Inspiration
Lee Meriwether, crowned Miss America in 1955, has lived a life of dazzling highs and heart-wrenching challenges. From the bright lights of Hollywood to personal battles, her story is one of resilience, grace, and unwavering determination. Even now, facing the same disease that took her beloved daughter, Lee continues to shine as a symbol of courage and positivity.
A Surprising Rise to Stardom
Born in Phoenix, Lee dreamed of the stage from an early age. While studying theater in college, a friend encouraged her to enter a local beauty pageant—a decision that would change her life forever. Crowned Miss America in 1955, Lee won national attention with a dramatic talent piece: portraying a 70-year-old Irish mother mourning her son lost at sea. “I removed all my makeup and wore my father’s black stockings,” she recalled. “I’m an actress; that’s all I knew to do.”
Her reign brought exciting opportunities: she was serenaded by Bert Parks with the iconic “There She Is, Miss America,” earned $60,000 in prizes, and mingled with famous figures including Juan Perón. Despite dating baseball legend Joe DiMaggio, Lee was determined to prove beauty queens could also be smart, talented, and ambitious.
Hollywood, Television, and a Flourishing Career
After her Miss America year, Lee joined The Today Show as a regular guest, launching her television career and using her scholarship to study with acting legend Lee Strasberg. She honed acting, singing, and even fencing skills, preparing for a versatile career in entertainment.
Lee quickly made her mark in Hollywood. She appeared on The Philco Television Playhouse, starred in The 4-D Man, and became famous as Catwoman in Batman. Films like Angel in My Pocket and The Undefeated showcased her range, while television roles made her a familiar face in households across America.
Family, Love, and Collaboration
In 1958, Lee married actor Frank Aletter, and together they had two daughters, Kyle and Lesley. Though their marriage ended in 1973, Lee remained a devoted mother. Her daughters shared her passion for performance, appearing with her in plays and television specials like Circus of the Stars. Later, Lee found love again with actor Marshall Borden while performing in Angel Street, marrying him in 1986 and continuing to perform together—a true blend of personal and professional partnership.
Facing Life’s Challenges with Courage
Life tested Lee profoundly when both she and her daughter Kyle were diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Kyle faced her illness with remarkable strength, finding humor even in difficult moments, and cared deeply for her mother. Tragically, Kyle passed away from the disease, leaving Lee to carry on her legacy with grace.
Even in her later years, Lee shows no signs of slowing down. She continues performing her one-woman show, The Women of Spoon River, plays multiple characters in a single hour, and auditions for new roles, including voiceovers for Tom and Jerry. “I love it,” she says. “It’s fun, and I’m not done yet.”
A Legacy of Beauty, Compassion, and Positivity
Lee’s timeless beauty is paired with a positive outlook and a dedication to giving back. She has supported organizations like Ability First, the American Cancer Society, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, and Actors and Others for Animals. Yet her proudest role is that of grandmother, sharing love, wisdom, and joy with family.
From Miss America to Hollywood star, from devoted mother to philanthropist, Lee Meriwether’s life is a testament to strength, resilience, and a heart full of generosity. Even at 89, she continues to inspire, proving that elegance, courage, and kindness never fade.
