Gypsy Rose Lee The All American Burlesque Star

Gypsy Rose Lee: A Burlesque Icon

Gypsy Rose Lee, the All-American Burlesque Star

Gypsy Rose Lee (1911-1970), born Rose Louise Hovick, was an American actress, burlesque entertainer, and writer. Her captivating performances made her an iconic figure in the world of burlesque and entertainment.

Early Life and Career

Lee was born in Seattle, Washington, in 1911. She began her career in vaudeville as a teenager, using the stage name Louise Hovick. In the early 1930s, she joined the Minsky Burlesque Circuit, where she quickly became a star with her witty repartee and risque routines.

Lee's signature act featured her stripping down to a glittering G-string while engaging the audience with humorous monologues. Her performances broke down social norms and celebrated female sexuality, challenging traditional notions of morality.

Broadway and Film

Lee's success in burlesque led her to Broadway and film. She starred in several Broadway productions, including "Star and Garter" (1942) and "Around the World in 80 Days" (1946). She also appeared in films such as "Lady Burlesque" (1943) and "Stage Door Canteen" (1943).

Lee's wit and intelligence extended beyond her stage performances. She was a successful author, publishing two autobiographies and several novels. Her writing, like her performances, was marked by humor, candor, and a sharp observation of human nature.