Sondra Lee, Broadway star of Hello, Dolly! and Peter Pan, dies aged 97

The Guardian World

by Owen Myers

February 25, 2026

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Sondra Lee, the esteemed Broadway and film actress known for her captivating performances in *Hello, Dolly!* and *Peter Pan*, passed away at the age of 97 due to natural causes. Her nine-decade career was marked by iconic roles that left an indelible mark on theater and film. Lee’s portrayal of Tiger Lily in the 1955 TV adaptation of *Peter Pan* and her creation of Minnie Fay in the original Broadway production of *Hello, Dolly!* solidified her status as a beloved figure in musical theater. Her petite stature and vibrant performance style brought life to characters that audiences cherished, and her legacy continues to inspire future generations of performers. Born in Newark, New Jersey, Lee’s early life included medical treatments for her short stature, which left her standing at 4 feet 10.5 inches as an adult. Despite her height, she excelled in ballet and transitioned into acting, moving to New York in the 1940s. During this time, she shared a boarding house with future stars like Marlon Brando and Maureen Stapleton. Her career took off after collaborating with legendary choreographer Jerome Robbins on *High Bottom Shoes* in 1947, leading to her role as Tiger Lily in *Peter Pan*. The 1954 television adaptation of the show brought her overnight fame, as millions tuned in to watch her performance. In addition to her acting career, Lee became a revered coach for performers, working with icons like Marlon Brando, Jane Fonda, and Dustin Hoffman. Her 2009 memoir *I’ve Slept with Everybody* highlighted her philosophy on the importance of community in the arts. Lee’s influence extended beyond acting; she mentored numerous artists, leaving an enduring impact on the world of theater and film. Lee’s life was a testament to the transformative power of art and the resilience of an individual who thrived against the odds. Her contributions to Broadway, her collaborations

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/25/2026