DIXIE LEE: HOLLYWOOD STAR

Dixie Lee, born Wilma Winifred Wyatt on November 4, 1911, in Harriman, Tennessee, was an American actress, singer, and dancer best known for her marriage to legendary crooner Bing Crosby. However, before becoming Mrs. Crosby, Dixie Lee carved out a notable—albeit brief—career in Hollywood during the late 1920s and early 1930s.

Dixie Lee began her entertainment career as a singer and dancer in vaudeville and nightclubs. Her talent and charm quickly caught the attention of film producers, and she transitioned to the silver screen during the early sound era of Hollywood. Her film debut came in 1929 with Fox Movietone Follies of 1929, a musical revue that showcased her singing and dancing abilities. This film was part of the wave of early sound musicals that capitalized on the novelty of synchronized sound.

Here are some of the key films in Dixie Lee’s filmography:

Fox Movietone Follies of 1929 (1929)
A musical revue-style film featuring various performers. Dixie Lee’s appearance helped launch her film career.

Love Comes Along (1930)
Dixie starred opposite Bebe Daniels in this romantic musical drama, further establishing her as a leading lady.

The Big Party (1930)
A drama set in the world of college life and youthful exuberance, showcasing Dixie’s appeal to younger audiences.

Cheer Up and Smile (1930)
A musical comedy where Dixie played a prominent role, reinforcing her image as a charming and talented performer.

Night Life in Reno (1931)
A drama set against the backdrop of Reno’s nightlife, this film gave Dixie a chance to explore more serious acting.

Manhattan Parade (1932)
One of her final film appearances, this musical comedy was released by Warner Bros. and featured Lee in a supporting role.

 
Despite her early success, Dixie Lee’s film career was relatively short-lived. After marrying Bing Crosby in 1930, she gradually stepped away from the spotlight. The pressures of Hollywood, combined with personal struggles—including health issues and the demands of family life—led her to retire from acting by the mid-1930s.
Legacy

Though her filmography is modest in size, Dixie Lee remains a fascinating figure in early Hollywood history. Her contributions to the musical genre during the transition from silent films to talkies helped pave the way for future stars. Moreover, her influence on Bing Crosby’s early career and personal life was profound.

Dixie Lee passed away in 1952 at the age of 40, but her brief time in Hollywood left a lasting impression. Today, she is remembered not only as Bing Crosby’s first wife but also as a talented performer who shone brightly during a transformative era in American cinema...