Early Life and Heritage

Ruta Lee was born Ruta Mary Kilmonis on May 30, 1935, in Montréal, Québec, Canada. Though born in Canada, she was raised in the United States and holds dual Canadian-American citizenship. Her parents were Lithuanian immigrants, and Lee is fluent in Lithuanian, maintaining strong ties to her cultural roots.

Film and Television Career

Lee began her acting career in the 1950s and gained early recognition through key roles in major Hollywood productions. In 1954, she appeared in Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, a musical that became a genre-defining film and remains one of her most iconic roles. She also had notable performances in Witness for the Prosecution (1957), directed by Billy Wilder, and the Audrey Hepburn musical Funny Face (1957).

In 1957, Lee was named a Hollywood Deb Star, an annual recognition given to promising young actresses. Her television work also brought her acclaim. Among her many TV appearances, fans particularly remember her for the 1963 episode of The Twilight Zone titled “A Short Drink from a Certain Fountain,” which has become a fan favorite over the years.

Personal Life and Philanthropy

Ruta Lee married Webster B. Lowe Jr. on February 13, 1976, and the couple has remained together for decades. Beyond her career in entertainment, Lee is known for her long-standing commitment to philanthropy and mental health advocacy.

She serves as a director of The Thalians, a charitable organization dedicated to mental health and emotional well-being, primarily through its association with Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. Founded in the 1950s, The Thalians has been supported by numerous celebrities. Lee worked closely with actress Debbie Reynolds, who served as the organization’s president. Together, they devoted more than 30 years to advancing awareness and support for mental health initiatives.