Alice Lon

Alice Lon Wyche emerged as a vibrant musical personality during the golden age of television, best known for her role as the "Champagne Lady" on Lawrence Welk's popular musical variety show. Her journey from a small-town Texas performer to a national television star embodied the dynamic entertainment landscape of mid-20th century America.

Early Musical Beginnings

Born on November 23, 1926, in Cooper, Texas, Alice Lon displayed remarkable musical talent from an incredibly young age. By six years old, she was already taking lessons in piano, singing, and dancing, demonstrating a precocious passion for performance. Her early promise was quickly evident when, at just ten years old, she began earning $20 per week hosting her own radio program, a remarkable achievement for such a young performer. Throughout her teenage years, Lon traveled extensively across Texas, performing in diverse venues and honing her craft. She attended a Texas school and was an active member of the school's dance team, further developing her performance skills. These formative experiences would prove crucial in shaping her future career in entertainment.

Rise to Television Stardom

In 1955, Lon became the Lawrence Welk Show's "Champagne Lady", a coveted title traditionally held by the program's female vocalists. Her alto singing voice became a weekly highlight of the show, captivating audiences with her musical performances. Lon was particularly known for her distinctive fashion sense, often wearing full skirts with colorful petticoats designed by her mother, Lois Wyche. Her musical career extended beyond television. She recorded an album for Coral Records titled It's Alice, accompanied by an orchestra directed by the musical supervisor from Welk's show. The album's liner notes highlighted her remarkable early musical journey, noting her progression from a child performer to a professional entertainer.

Controversial Departure from Welk's Show

In 1959, Lon's tenure with the Lawrence Welk Show came to a dramatic end. While a popular legend suggests she was fired for showing "too much leg" or crossing her feet on Welk's desk, the reality was more complex. She left the show over musical and financial disagreements. Her departure was so impactful that viewers sent numerous messages to the American Broadcasting Company demanding her reinstatement. Despite Welk's attempts to reconcile, Lon refused to return to the show. She was ultimately replaced in 1960, though she and Lawrence eventually reconciled personally, though they never worked together professionally again.

Personal Life and Legacy

Beyond her musical career, Lon led a rich personal life. She was married to Bob Waterman, with whom she had three sons: Bobby, Clint, and Larry. After her divorce, she married George Bowling. Tragically, on June 13, 1955, Lon and her family were victims of a violent robbery in their North Hollywood home. Alice Lon passed away on April 24, 1981, leaving behind a legacy as a pioneering female performer who helped define the musical television variety show format. Her contributions to entertainment, particularly during the 1950s, remain a significant chapter in the history of American musical television.

Works and Appearances

Radio

• Own sponsored radio show (age 10)
• Interstate Theaters weekly radio show "Showtime"

Television

• Lawrence Welk Show (1955-1959)
• Role: "Champagne Lady"
• Primary Performer and Vocalist

Recordings

• It's Alice (Coral Records album)

Live Performances

• Texas theater circuit
• Veterans' hospitals
• Army camp performances

Alice Lon's journey from a young Texas performer to a national television star exemplifies the dynamic and transformative nature of mid-20th century American entertainment.