Cherylene Lee was an American actress best known for her roles in Bachelor Father, Donovan’s Reef, and The Amazing Chan and the Chan Clan. Born on June 13, 1953, in Los Angeles, California, she had a vibrant career in both acting and writing.
Personal and Family Life
Cherylene came from a family involved in the entertainment industry, with her sister Virginia Ann Lee being a well-known actress and dancer. The sisters performed together from a young age in various venues including nightclubs and movies, even gracing the stages of Las Vegas hotels. Cherylene was also an accomplished writer, publishing her memoir “Just Like Really: An Uncommon Chinese American Memoir” in 2015.
Career Highlights
Starting as a child actress, Cherylene Lee appeared in several television shows and movies, making a name for herself in classic productions. Some of her notable performances include her roles in MASH and the animated series The Amazing Chan and the Chan Clan. Later in her career, she turned to writing and playwrighting, with works that addressed significant cultural issues.
Death and Legacy
Cherylene Lee passed away on March 18, 2016, in San Francisco, California, due to breast cancer. Her contributions to film and theater, along with her memoir, leave a lasting legacy. She is remembered for her talent, creativity, and the impact she made in showcasing Chinese American narratives in the arts.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Donovan’s Reef | 1963-06-12 | Sarah “Sally” Dedham |
| Stagecoach to Dancers’ Rock | 1962-10-01 | Ah Ling |
| A Letter to Nancy | 1965-01-14 | Nancy Lee |