Audrey Meadows, born Audrey Cotter, was the youngest of four siblings, born in the vibrant city of New York. Her family's journey took an unexpected turn as they relocated to Wu'chang, China, where they dedicated themselves to missionary work. After spending time in China, the family returned to the United States, settling in New England when Audrey was just six years old.
Audrey and her sister, Jayne Meadows, attended an all-girls boarding school, where they nurtured their individual talents. Following high school, Jayne pursued her dream of becoming an actress, and eventually convinced her younger sister to join her in the entertainment industry, albeit as a singer rather than an actress.
Audrey spent months honing her craft in the Broadway show "Top Banana," before landing a role on The Bob & Ray Show in 1951. She eventually replaced Pert Kelton as the iconic and beloved "Alice Kramden" in the hit television show The Honeymooners, which premiered in 1955.
After The Honeymooners concluded, Audrey transitioned to film, appearing in notable movies such as Take Her, She's Mine (1963) and That Touch of Mink (1962). She also made a memorable appearance as Ted Knight's mother-in-law in the 1980s sitcom Too Close for Comfort.
Despite her extensive career, Audrey's heart, and ours, will forever remain in the iconic two-burner-stove Chauncey Street kitchen, where the magic of The Honeymooners was brought to life.
