Lee Meriwether: From Miss America to Unwavering Strength
Lee Meriwether, a name synonymous with grace and resilience, captivated the nation as Miss America 1955, and her story continues to inspire. Beyond the dazzling lights of the pageant stage and the silver screen, her life is a testament to the enduring power of love, the strength to overcome adversity, and an unwavering spirit that refuses to be dimmed. Her journey, marked by both triumph and tragedy, is a compelling narrative of a woman who has truly lived a remarkable life.
Her story begins with a young woman from Phoenix, the daughter of an accountant, harboring theatrical ambitions. Little did she know that a spontaneous decision would catapult her into the national spotlight. While pursuing theatrical studies in college, a friend encouraged her to enter a local beauty pageant, a pivotal moment that led to her crowning as Miss America 1955. This title, while defining her public image, never confined her aspirations.
“I still don’t know why people voted for me. I’m thinking it’s because I selected a talent that got them to sit up,” she recalled. Her talent performance, a dramatic portrayal of a 70-year-old Irish mother mourning her son’s loss at sea, was a testament to her dedication to her craft. “I played a 70-year-old Irish mother mourning the loss of her last son to the sea,” she explained. “I removed all of my makeup and dressed in a shawl and my father’s black stockings, the same outfit I wore in the high school play. It was all I knew to do. ‘I’m an actress; that’s what I wanted to be,’” she emphasized, showcasing her commitment to her artistic passion.
During her reign, she made history as the first Miss America to be serenaded with “There She Is, Miss America” by Bert Parks. Her year was filled with extraordinary experiences, including amassing over $60,000 in cash and prizes and meeting influential figures like Juan Perón. Despite a brief romantic connection with baseball legend Joe DiMaggio, her relationship was closely monitored by her mother and journalist Walter Winchell. She was acutely aware of the stereotypes associated with pageant winners, with many assuming a lack of intellectual depth. Determined to challenge these preconceptions, she quickly transitioned into a role as a pundit on “The Today Show,” working alongside Dave Garroway.
“Halfway through my Miss America tour, they called me from ‘The Today Show’ and said, ‘We’d like to have you as a regular member of our company.’ I was ecstatic,” she remembered. This opportunity not only launched her television career but also enabled her to utilize her scholarship funds to study acting with the renowned Lee Strasberg. She honed her skills in acting, singing, and fencing, laying the groundwork for a long and successful career in entertainment.
Her transition from beauty queen to actress was seamless. She made her television debut on “The Philco Television Playhouse” and secured her first film role in “The 4-D Man.” She ascended to Hollywood prominence with memorable performances in films such as “Batman,” where she portrayed Catwoman, “Angel in My Pocket,” and “The Undefeated.”
In 1958, she married actor Frank Aletter, and they welcomed two children, Kyle and Lesley Aletter. While their marriage ended in divorce in 1973, she remained a devoted mother. Kyle followed in her mother’s footsteps, appearing alongside her in stage productions like “The Gingerbread Lady” and “Last Summer at Bluefish Cove.” Lesley, on the other hand, pursued a career as a stunt double. Their shared passion for entertainment led the family to appear together on “Circus of the Stars,” showcasing their adventurous spirit.
Years later, she found love again with actor Marshall Borden, whom she met while performing in “Angel Street.” Their shared love for the stage solidified their bond, and they married in 1986, continuing to collaborate professionally.
However, her life, which had been filled with personal and professional triumphs, took a devastating turn when she and her daughter Kyle were diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Kyle, despite her challenges, maintained her sense of humor, even referring to a brain tumor as “the easiest one I went through.” As the disease progressed, Kyle recognized that her life experiences had prepared her to care for her mother. “I realized that my surgeries had caught up with me just as I needed to quit [my work], and I had no idea what was coming up. That was Mom,” she reflected. “I’m not overstepping. That’s the toughest part. It’s also about finding a balance for her, myself, and conservatorship in general. All of this factors into it. And I’m grateful,” she continued.
Sadly, Kyle succumbed to Alzheimer’s, a heart-wrenching loss for Lee. “Model Kyle Aletter has passed away from Alzheimer’s disease on Wednesday, July 31st of this year. Pray for her family, and may she rest in peace,” a social media user shared in 2024.
Despite this profound loss, Lee’s spirit remains unbroken. Long before Kyle’s passing, she expressed her determination to continue her work. “I’m working on a memoir called ‘From the Boardwalk to the Catwalk,’” she revealed. She also continued to perform her one-woman show, “The Women of Spoon River,” portraying twenty-three distinct characters in an hour. Even in her seventies, she auditioned for roles, including a voiceover part in “Tom and Jerry.” “Oh no, it’s fun. I love it,” she affirmed when asked about slowing down.
When questioned about her age-defying beauty, Lee credited her genes, a positive outlook, and simple routines. “[…] I started rubbing up,” she joked, demonstrating her skincare technique. She also emphasized the importance of staying active, adhering to a three-times-a-week gym schedule. “And it helps to have a positive attitude about others. The laugh line will be there whether you like it or not, so keep it there,” she advised.
Beyond her career, Lee has dedicated herself to numerous philanthropic causes, serving as the honorary chairperson of Ability First and supporting organizations such as the American Cancer Society, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, and Actors and Others for Animals. Above all, she cherishes her role as a grandmother.
Throughout her life, Lee Meriwether has remained a beacon of grace, strength, and elegance. Even today, at 89, she continues to inspire. “You’re still a classic American beauty!!!!” one admirer wrote. “That lovely smile!” another commented. “Just as beautiful as you were years ago. You have excellent genes,” a third remarked. “Your [sic] eyes are captivating as always!!!” a fourth stated.
Lee Meriwether’s life is a testament to resilience, love, and a life lived with purpose. Her journey, from Miss America to a woman facing the same disease that took her daughter, is a powerful reminder of the enduring human spirit.
