Ruta Lee, one of the enduring stars of Hollywood’s Golden Age, has spent over six decades charming audiences with her dynamic talents, warm personality, and tireless work ethic. Best known for her roles in iconic films like Seven Brides for Seven Brothers and Funny Face, Lee’s career spanned not only the silver screen but also television, theater, and even live broadcast sales—showcasing a remarkable versatility that few in Hollywood can match. But beyond the glamour of stardom, Lee’s personal story, particularly her 46-year marriage to businessman Webb Lowe and her commitment to philanthropy, reveals a woman of exceptional strength, love, and character.
A Star is Born: Early Breakthroughs in Hollywood
Ruta Lee’s journey began in Montreal, Canada, born to Lithuanian immigrants, and raised in Los Angeles. Her path to stardom wasn’t instant, but it was steady. At the young age of 16, she landed her first television appearance on The George Burns and Gracie Allen Show, sparking a long career that would soon lead her to Hollywood’s inner circle.
Her breakthrough came in 1954 with the beloved musical Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, where she played the spirited Ruth Jebson. The story of how she landed the role has become legend—during her audition, Lee impressed the producers by dancing a Lithuanian polka. This personal touch, along with her charisma and dancing skills, made her a perfect fit for the energetic ensemble cast. The film’s success launched her into the spotlight and paved the way for dozens of subsequent roles.
Lee’s filmography includes memorable appearances in Witness for the Prosecution, Sergeants 3, Funny Face (alongside Audrey Hepburn and Fred Astaire), and guest-starring roles on major television series like The Twilight Zone, Perry Mason, Gunsmoke, and The Lucy Show. She was also one of the first women to regularly host Hollywood Squares, demonstrating her quick wit and charm on live television.
Beyond Acting: A Connection with the Audience
In addition to her acting work, Ruta Lee demonstrated her entrepreneurial side by becoming a familiar face on the Home Shopping Network (HSN) in the 1980s and ’90s. For five years, she co-hosted segments that reached millions of homes across America, using her charisma to forge a direct and sincere connection with viewers.
This adaptability and willingness to evolve with the times allowed Lee to remain in the public eye while also maintaining a sense of relevance in a rapidly changing industry. She often credited her success to staying true to herself and to her roots—a blend of Hollywood glamour and everyday humility.
A Love That Endured: 46 Years with Webb Lowe
While her professional life was impressive, perhaps the most beautiful aspect of Ruta Lee’s life has been her enduring marriage to Webb Lowe, a Texas-born executive in the hotel and resort industry. The couple married in 1976 and remained deeply devoted to one another for the next 46 years.
Their relationship was marked by travel, shared passions, and a profound companionship that stood the test of time. Lee often spoke glowingly of her husband in interviews, calling him “kind, handsome, and endlessly supportive.” Despite the demands of her career, the couple managed to build a life rooted in mutual respect, adventure, and quiet strength.
When Webb Lowe suffered a stroke in later years, Lee took on the role of full-time caregiver. As his health continued to decline, including a difficult battle with dementia, she remained by his side, adjusting her life and priorities to ensure his comfort and dignity. In interviews, she admitted how emotionally and physically demanding it was, but emphasized that love gave her the strength to endure.
“I didn’t know what I was made of until I had to be his caretaker,” she once said. “It wasn’t easy, but I wouldn’t have been anywhere else.” Webb Lowe passed away in 2020, and Lee continued to honor his memory by sharing their story of love, loyalty, and resilience.
Continuing the Fight: Advocacy and Philanthropy
Following her husband’s passing, Ruta Lee poured her energy into The Thalians, a non-profit organization she helped lead for decades. Originally formed by Hollywood stars to support mental health care, the organization shifted its mission to focus on the mental well-being of military veterans—a cause close to Lee’s heart.
Her passion for advocacy is just as strong today. Whether appearing at charity galas, mentoring young performers, or giving heartfelt interviews, Lee continues to use her voice and platform to promote compassion and connection. She has received numerous awards for her humanitarian work, including honors from the U.S. military and mental health organizations.
Legacy of a Hollywood Luminary
Now in her 90s, Ruta Lee remains a vibrant and eloquent presence, proving that age is no barrier to making an impact. Her autobiography, Consider Your Ass Kissed, offers a candid and humorous look at her life in show business, filled with stories of her friendships with Hollywood legends and the lessons she learned along the way.
Ruta Lee’s story is more than just that of a successful actress—it’s the story of a woman who embraced every chapter of her life with courage, humor, and an open heart. From Hollywood sound stages to hospital rooms, from red carpets to veterans’ causes, she has lived with purpose and grace.
Her lasting legacy is not only found in film reels and accolades, but in the lives she’s touched with her loyalty, her laughter, and her unwavering belief in the power of love and service.
