RUSSELL, LILLIAN

Russell, Lillian: translation

(1851-1922)

Born Helen Louise Leonard in Clinton, Iowa, the beautiful actress-singer began her New York stage career as Nellie Leonard, but made her debut as Lillian Russell atTonyPastor's Theatre in 1881. Although most of her career was invaudevilleand musicals, she did play somelegitimatecomedy roles during a period of vocal recuperation. These includedBarbara's Millions(1906),The Butterfly(1906),Wildfire(1907), andIn Search of a Sinner(1910). Known popularly as "the American Beauty," Russell used her celebrity to further the cause of woman suffrage and to promote physical fitness.