Bee Jackson was an American actress best known for her dance performances during the Roaring Twenties, particularly in the Broadway show “No Foolin'” and the film “Lying Wives.” Born on January 12, 1903, in Brooklyn, New York City, she made significant contributions to the Charleston dance craze. Jackson passed away on July 18, 1933, in Chicago Heights, Illinois.
Personal and Family Life
Bee Jackson, whose birth name was Beatrice Adelaide Jackson, grew up in a family that nurtured her artistic talents. Her mother, Grace Jackson, a former actress, managed her career and encouraged her to pursue dance. Bee loved to dance from a young age, often using a phonograph to guide her movements. By 1921, she began her professional career in New York City, participating in various cabaret shows and vaudeville acts.
Career Highlights
Bee Jackson rose to fame in the mid-1920s when she embraced the Charleston dance, which was gaining popularity. In 1925, she started marketing herself as the originator of the Charleston dance, which helped her stand out in a competitive field of dancers. Her performances captivated audiences, leading to her casting in the Broadway show “No Foolin'” by Flo Ziegfeld in 1926. Although her fame has faded over the years, many images of her continue to be featured in literature about the 1920s and the history of the Charleston dance.
Death and Legacy
Bee Jackson’s life was tragically cut short when she died on July 18, 1933, due to complications from an appendicitis operation. Her impact on the dance world, particularly during the Roaring Twenties, remains significant, even if she is not widely recognized today. While her contributions may have been overshadowed by others, her legacy lives on through the countless recordings and publications that highlight the Charleston dance and the vibrant culture of her time.
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1925 | Lying Wives | Betty Lee |
| 1926 | No Foolin’ |