Lee Meriwether, who captured America’s heart as Miss America 1955 and later dazzled viewers in Hollywood for decades, has led a life filled with both glamour and hardship. Beyond the glitz and fame, her journey has been marked by deep love, personal challenges, and an unyielding spirit.
Raised in Phoenix as the daughter of an accountant, Lee never expected a single, spontaneous decision to catapult her to national recognition. While studying theater in college, a friend encouraged her to enter a local beauty contest, leading to her winning the title of Miss America in 1955. Despite the fame, Lee remained determined to pursue acting, even using her talent for a dramatic monologue to win the crown.
During her reign, she became the first Miss America to be serenaded with “There She Is, Miss America” by Bert Parks. Her year was filled with extraordinary experiences, including winning over $60,000 in prizes and meeting high-profile figures like Juan Perón. Though she dated baseball legend Joe DiMaggio, her relationships were closely supervised by her mother and journalist Walter Winchell. Lee was aware that the title carried stereotypes, but she was eager to prove that beauty queens were more than just a pretty face.
Soon after, she joined The Today Show as a regular panelist, which helped launch her television career. She also used her scholarship funds to study acting under Lee Strasberg, honing her craft in acting, singing, and fencing. Her swift rise in Hollywood saw her take on iconic roles, including Catwoman in Batman and performances in Angel in My Pocket and The Undefeated.
In 1958, she married actor Frank Aletter and had two children, Kyle and Lesley. Though their marriage ended in divorce in 1973, Lee remained actively involved in her children’s lives. Kyle later followed in her footsteps and even performed alongside Lee, while Lesley pursued a career as a stunt double. The family’s shared love for the stage led to appearances on Circus of the Stars, showcasing their adventurous spirits.
In 1986, Lee married actor Marshall Borden, and their love for theater strengthened their bond. They continued to perform together, making their relationship both personal and professional.
However, Lee’s life took a tragic turn when she and her daughter Kyle were both diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Kyle, who had previously faced numerous health challenges, remained optimistic and dedicated to supporting her mother through this difficult time. Despite her humor and strength, Kyle eventually succumbed to the disease, leaving her mother devastated. Lee’s grief was compounded by the loss, but she vowed to continue sharing her story.
Even after Kyle’s death, Lee stayed active. She worked on a memoir, From the Boardwalk to the Catwalk, and continued performing her one-woman show, The Women of Spoon River. In her seventies, she still auditioned for roles and remained passionate about her craft. Known for her timeless beauty and upbeat attitude, Lee credits her youthful appearance to good genes, positive thinking, and staying physically active.
In addition to her career, Lee has dedicated herself to numerous humanitarian causes, including the American Cancer Society, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, and Ability First. Her compassion extended to animals as well, as she supported Actors and Others for Animals.
Through it all, Lee’s most cherished role has been as a grandmother. Her resilience, grace, and strength have made her a beloved figure. Social media users regularly comment on her enduring beauty, noting how she has remained a “classic American beauty” even at 89.
Lee Meriwether’s remarkable life is a testament to her tenacity, love, and unwavering dedication—whether in her professional career, personal challenges, or charitable endeavors. Her legacy is one of strength, elegance, and a life fully lived.
