Lucille Bremer (February 21, 1917 – April 16, 1996) was a radiant and exceptionally talented American dancer and actress who had a brief but memorable career as a star in MGM’s prestigious Freed Unit during the golden age of the movie musical. A former Rockette and Broadway performer, her graceful dancing caught the eye of producer Arthur Freed, who cast her in a prominent supporting role as Judy Garland’s sister in the timeless classic Meet Me in St. Louis (1944).
She was quickly elevated to leading lady status and given the coveted role of Fred Astaire’s dance partner in two lavish Technicolor musicals, Yolanda and the Thief (1945) and the “Limehouse Blues” segment of Ziegfeld Follies (1946). Despite these high-profile roles, Bremer’s career did not reach the superstar level envisioned for her. After a few more films, including her final starring role in the noir thriller Behind Locked Doors (1948), she grew disillusioned with the industry and chose to retire from the screen.
