Gypsy Rose Lee
Also known as Rose Louise Hovick
Career
Active 1931 – 1969
Biography
About Gypsy Rose Lee
Gypsy Rose Lee was an American entertainer who left a lasting mark on burlesque. Born Rose Louise Hovick in Seattle, Washington, she spent nearly four decades in the spotlight, from 1931 to 1969. During that time she worked as an actress, a burlesque dancer, and a writer. Her 1957 memoir was later adapted into the 1959 stage musical Gypsy, cementing her place in cultural history.
She was known for her slim figure, standing 5'8" with brown hair and brown eyes. Her stage career began when she was around 20, and she became famous for her striptease act. Her sister, June Havoc, was also in show business, and their mother, Rose Thompson Hovick, famously forged birth certificates for both daughters, creating confusion about their true ages. Lee passed away in 1970 at the age of 59, leaving behind a unique legacy in entertainment.
Record
Profile details
Personal
- Died
- Sunday 26th of April 1970 (age 59)
- Years Active
- 1931-1969 (started around 20 years old; 38 years active)
- Birthplace
- Seattle, Washington, United States
- Ethnicity
- Caucasian
- Sexuality
- Straight
Body
- Hair Color
- Brown
- Eye Color
- Brown
- Weight
- 130 lbs (or 59 kg)
- Measurements
- 37–22–35 (B–W–H) · WHR 0.63
- Bra/Cup Size
- B
- Boobs
- Real/Natural
Frequently asked
Was Gypsy Rose Lee's stage name her birth name?
No, she was born Rose Louise Hovick and later adopted the stage name Gypsy Rose Lee.
Why were her birth records unclear?
Her mother forged birth certificates for both daughters, altering ages to comply with child labor laws or to get cheaper train fares, making their true birth years uncertain.
What is her connection to the musical Gypsy?
Her 1957 memoir was adapted into the 1959 stage musical Gypsy, which tells the story of her early life and career.
Did you know
- Her sister was actress June Havoc, and the two performed together as children.
- She was a writer as well as a performer; her memoir became the basis for a major musical.
- She started performing professionally around age 20 and remained active for 38 years.
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