The Life and Times of Gypsy Rose Lee

Soundcheck | Jan 18, 2011

Burlesque dancers then and now take a cue from Gypsy Rose Lee, the most famous burlesque performer ever. This vaudevillian, stripper, writer, and actress garnered fans as diverse as Harry Houdini and Eleanor Roosevelt. A new biography by Karen Abbott, called "American Rose: A Nation Laid Bare, The Life and Times of Gypsy Rose Lee," chronicles the burlesque dancer's life--and puts her popularity into historical context.

WNYC is funded by sponsors and member donations

Top Stories

9/11 25 Years Later: Remembering the Ordinary Americans Who Died on 9/11

New Jersey columnist Mike Kelly, tells the stories of ordinary Americans, who lost their lives in the 9/11 attacks.
The Brian Lehrer Show |

2026 Fall Schedule Change

WNYC followed up with people whose voices we captured in the aftermath of the September 11th attack to hear their reflections.
WNYC |

Colin Kaepernick, Ten Years After Taking a Knee

In his new memoir, “The Perilous Fight,” the former N.F.L. star recounts the backlash he faced from the league.
The New Yorker Radio Hour |

A Documentary Spotlights the Oldest People in the World

All Of It with Alison Stewart |
YOU ARE ONLINE