Broadway actress Sondra Lee, known for her roles in Peter Pan and Hello, Dolly!, has died at the age of 97. She passed away from natural causes in her New York City apartment on Monday evening, according to former Broadway press agent Joshua Ellis.
Lee was best known for playing Tiger Lily opposite Mary Martin in Peter Pan and originating the role of Minnie Fay in the original production of Hello, Dolly! She also appeared in the 1960 film La Dolce Vita and worked with stars such as Robert Redford, Angela Lansbury, and Betty Grable.
Born in New Jersey, Lee studied ballet at Carnegie Hall and began her career in acting alongside comedians like Buddy Hackett and Red Buttons. She later moved to New York City, where she learned from Maureen Stapleton and Marlon Brando, who became a lifelong friend.
In addition to performing, Lee worked as a coach for actresses including Jane Fonda, Sally Field, and Amy Adams. Her final public appearance was at Carnegie Hall in June 2025 during a concert production of Hello, Dolly!
Lee's 2009 memoir, I've Slept with Everybody: A Memoir, chronicled her five decades in show business. A celebration of her life and career is planned for later in 2026.
