Celebrity Info
Lee Meriwether, the first Miss America—crowned back in 1955—to seriously pursue acting as a career, has built an enduring legacy on both television and film. Of course, many fans remember Lee Meriwether best for her role as Betty Jones, the smart and capable daughter-in-law who worked alongside her father-in-law, the titular private investigator, on the long-running CBS series Barnaby Jones (1973–1980). That role really solidified Lee Meriwether’s place in TV history.
But her career didn’t stop there. In 1996, Lee Meriwether stepped into another beloved soap opera role, joining ABC’s iconic daytime drama All My Children. She took over from the retiring Mary Fickett, bringing warmth and strength to the character of Ruth Brent Martin—a grounded, nurturing figure often seen as the emotional anchor of the show. Fans quickly embraced Lee Meriwether in this new chapter of her career.
Before all that, Lee Meriwether had already made her mark across multiple genres. Trained under the legendary Lee Strasberg, she brought serious dedication to her craft. Over the years, Lee Meriwether appeared as a regular or recurring character in no fewer than nine different television series. One interesting detour? She even served as a women’s editor on NBC’s Today show—proof that her talents extended beyond just acting.
And then there’s the cult favorite role: Lily Munster. From 1988 to 1990, Lee Meriwether brought a fresh twist to the classic character in the syndicated revival The Munsters Today, delighting both longtime fans and a new generation. But perhaps one of the most talked-about highlights of Lee Meriwether’s career came much earlier—when she donned the iconic catsuit as Catwoman in the 1960s Batman series on ABC and reprised the role in the 1966 feature film. It’s a performance that still sparks nostalgia among fans of campy superhero classics.
Throughout it all, Lee Meriwether has remained a versatile and respected presence on screen—someone who transitioned gracefully from pageant queen to accomplished actress with staying power. Whether playing a detective’s partner, a soap matriarch, or a feline-fatale villainess, Lee Meriwether always brought charm, intelligence, and depth to her roles.
When it comes to Lee Meriwether’s career highlights, one standout moment definitely comes from her role in 4D Man (1959), which remains her highest-rated film to date. Over the years, fans and critics alike have praised her performance in that sci-fi classic, solidifying Lee Meriwether’s place in cinematic history. On the other end of the spectrum, The Ultimate Life (2013) received more mixed responses, making it her lowest-rated project overall. While Lee Meriwether brought depth and experience to every role she took on, it’s clear that some projects resonated more strongly than others. Still, throughout her long and varied career, Lee Meriwether has consistently delivered memorable performances across film and television.
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