Lucy Wightman, widely known as Boston’s most famous exotic dancer, is set to celebrate the release of her autobiography, “Princess Cheyenne: My Life as Boston’s Most Famous Stripper,” on June 17.
After a diverse career spanning 65 years, Wightman reflects fondly on the fun experiences of her 11 years in the spotlight.
Born into wealth in Illinois and Connecticut, Wightman, originally Lucy Johnson, arrived in Boston as a teenager in the late 1970s.
Her adventurous spirit led her to answer an advertisement for exotic dancers in the Boston Phoenix, where she quickly made a name for herself at the Naked i Cabaret, the premier nightclub of Boston’s infamous Combat Zone.
Wightman’s charisma and theatrical flair captivated both patrons and press.
Stephanie Schorow noted her prominence in the Combat Zone in her 2017 book, stating, “Princess Cheyenne is to the Combat Zone what Gypsy Rose Lee was to burlesque.”
As she gained celebrity status, Wightman often engaged in stimulating discussions, including insightful conversations with lawyer and Harvard professor emeritus Alan Dershowitz.
When asked about objectification, she challenged the perception, asserting that individuals create their own narratives.
“I’m not the one making myself into an object. That’s on other people,” Wightman explained, reflecting her comfort in her own skin.
Wightman’s journey in the industry was not solely about dancing.
Her friendships and interactions, including appearances with feminist scholar Lauri Umansky, highlighted differing views on feminism in the context of exotic dancing.
While Umansky expressed skepticism about feminism coexisting with the dance profession, Wightman maintained her stance on the subject.
In the following years, Wightman took a break from dancing to reconnect with her idol Cat Stevens in London.
Despite hopes of a deeper relationship, family opinions led to their separation.
One of Wightman’s notable encounters involved comedian Andy Kaufman, who approached her in the club.
Unfamiliar with his fame, Wightman spent time drawing and playing Charades with him until grasping who he was.
Reflecting on her time with Kaufman, she described him as an “otherworldly” presence who was out of her league.
Wightman’s book is published by Boston-based Hamilcar Publications, known for its focus on boxing and true crime.
Publisher Kyle Sarofeen emphasized Wightman’s unique voice in her writing, capturing her humor, intellect, and resilience.
Wightman officially exited the world of exotic dancing in 1988, citing boredom and the changing atmosphere in the Combat Zone as reasons.
Though her autobiography concludes with that chapter of her life, her subsequent journey has not been without challenges.
In 2005, Wightman faced legal issues when charged with practicing psychology without a license.
With a master’s degree in counseling psychology, she encountered legal hurdles that resulted in a conviction in 2007.
Tragedy struck when she lost her only daughter, Torri, at the age of 16, an experience she described as life-altering.
In recent years, Wightman has found solace in her new home on Cape Cod, pursuing interests like bird banding and enjoying time with friends.
“I’m walking eight miles a day together,” she stated about her new activities.
The intellectual engagement of her new pursuits has reinvigorated her spirit.
Wightman expressed nonchalance towards any negative reactions to her past when discussing her upcoming book.
“If somebody doesn’t like it, what… ever,” she said, conveying her enjoyment of that vibrant chapter in her life.
As she shares her story, Wightman hopes to invite readers into her unique life experiences with warmth and humor.
image source from：https://www.bostonglobe.com/2025/06/17/lifestyle/lucy-wightman-combat-zone-memoir/
