Marlene Dietrich
Acting
Born: 1901-12-27 in Berlin, Germany
Biography
Marlene Dietrich (1901–1992) was a German-American actress and singer, widely regarded as one of the most iconic figures of classic Hollywood. She rose to fame in the 1930s with films like The Blue Angel, Shanghai Express, and Destry Rides Again, captivating audiences with her sultry voice, striking beauty, and androgynous style. Known for her ability to reinvent herself, Dietrich transitioned from film star to a celebrated cabaret performer, touring internationally for decades. Beyond her career, Dietrich was known for her progressive views and unconventional lifestyle. She openly defied gender norms, often wearing men's clothing both on and off-screen, which contributed to her enigmatic persona. Her personal life has long been the subject of speculation, particularly regarding her sexuality. While she was married to Rudolf Sieber, she was rumored to have had relationships with both men and women, including actresses Claudette Colbert and Mercedes de Acosta. Some sources suggest she was part of Hollywood’s so-called “sewing circle,” a network of women engaged in same-sex relationships. However, Dietrich never publicly confirmed these rumors, maintaining an air of mystery that only added to her legendary status. Her legacy continues to inspire discussions on gender, sexuality, and Hollywood’s golden age.
Known For
Tony Awards
Self - Recipient
Witness for the Prosecution
Christine
Around the World in 80 Days
Saloon Hostess
Touch of Evil
Tana
Judgment at Nuremberg
Mrs. Bertholt
The Blue Angel
Lola Lola
Erich Maria Remarque und Marlene Dietrich - Flucht in die Liebe
Self (archive footage)
The Monte Carlo Story
Maria de Crevecoeur
Morocco
Mademoiselle Amy Jolly
Das Jahrhundert des Theaters
Self (archive footage)
Paris When It Sizzles
Marlene Dietrich (uncredited)
Dishonored
Magda / X27
Rancho Notorious
Altar Keane
Stage Fright
Charlotte Inwood
Blonde Venus
Helen Faraday, aka Helen Jones
Desire
Madeleine de Beaupré
Shanghai Express
Shanghai Lily
Seven Sinners
Bijou
The Scarlet Empress
Princess Sophia Frederica / Catherine II
A Foreign Affair
Erika Von Schlüetow
The Spoilers
Cherry Malotte
The Song of Songs
Lily Czepanek
Destry Rides Again
Frenchy
That's Entertainment! III
(archive footage) (uncredited)
Becoming Cary Grant
Self (archive footage)
Just a Gigolo
Baroness von Semering
The Lady Is Willing
Elizabeth Madden
The First 100 Years: A Celebration of American Movies
Self (archive footage)
Triumph Over Violence
Self (archive footage)
Marlene
Herself (Voice)
Art of Love
Chichotte de Gastoné
Angel
Lady Maria Barker, aka Angel
1939: Secrets of Hollywood's Golden Year
The Century of Icons
Self (archive footage)
The Devil Is a Woman
Concha Perez
The Flame of New Orleans
Countess Claire Ledoux, aka Lili