Backstory

Lee worked with director, Delbert Mann, for the first time when she made
the tele-movie, A Girl Named Sooner in 1975. It was while working on
Sooner that the actress and director developed a very special chemistry
– "The kind," Mann said, "containing such superb professional work and
the fun of the work and the warmth of personal affection. The two don't
come together very often, and I cherish them and the memory of them
when they do."

While writing his memoirs, Delbert Mann made special mention of his
respect and admiration for Lee. He wrote:

"While there are several whom I have truly loved and admired, it is
enough to say that Lee was extremely high on that very special list,
a real lady with a great sense of humor, and a dedicated professional
actress of enormous skill. She was truly a special person. We worked
together four times. We always hoped and planned for more in the
future." Lee's death "was the ending of a very special relationship for
me."