Lillian Russell was the greatest beauty of the American stage from 1890 to 1920, She was also a willing and capable comedienne and a sweet singer, as well as a canny businesswoman. She was down-to-earth and well-liked, but she knew her value to the penny, and no producer ever bested her and few regretted paying what she demanded. Even as she grew a trifle matronly, she remained a great favorite. When she felt she and the stage were no longer suited for each other, she became a highly paid lecturer about health and beauty.
