Peggy Gilbert was an American actress who is best known for The Golden Girls, Married… with Children, and Madame’s Place.
Personal and Family Life
Peggy Gilbert, born Margaret Fern Knechtges on January 17, 1905, in Sioux City, Iowa, was a pioneering female bandleader. She formed an all-girl band called the Melody Girls after finishing high school in 1923, where she played the saxophone. Peggy had a brief marriage to James Wright but later divorced. She spent more than 60 years with her companion, Kay Boley, a former vaudeville performer and contortionist.
Career Highlights
Peggy discovered her passion for jazz music as a child through the radio, despite being discouraged from playing the saxophone in school. She learned the instrument from a local bandleader and advocated for women’s roles in jazz throughout her career. Peggy led all-girl bands during the big band era and worked with her last ensemble, Peggy Gilbert & the Dixie Belles, from 1974 until 1998.
Death and Legacy
Peggy Gilbert passed away on February 12, 2007, in Burbank, California, due to complications following hip surgery. She left a significant mark on the music world as a trailblazer for women in jazz. Her dedication and contributions to the genre continue to inspire future generations of musicians.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Golden Girls | 1985-09-14 | Esther |
| Madame’s Place | 1982-09-20 | The Dixie Belles |
| Married… with Children | 1987-04-05 | Cheerleader |
