Dietrich, Marlene, << DEE trihk, mahr LAY nuh >> (1901-1992), a German-born actress and singer, became a famous movie star. Her sex appeal, shapely legs, and husky voice made her an international favorite for over 40 years.
Dietrich first gained attention for her performance in the German film The Blue Angel (1930), directed by Josef Von Sternberg (see Von Sternberg, Josef). He guided her career and brought her to the United States, where they made Morocco (1930), Dishonored (1931), Shanghai Express (1932), Blonde Venus (1932), The Scarlet Empress (1934), and The Devil Is a Woman (1935). Her other Hollywood films include Destry Rides Again (1939), A Foreign Affair (1948), and Witness for the Prosecution (1957).
Dietrich was also a successful recording and cabaret artist. She performed many songs in her movies as well as in concert and in the theater. Among her most famous songs are “Falling in Love Again,” “Lili Marleen,” and “The Boys in the Back Room.”
Dietrich became an American citizen in 1937. She toured extensively in support of the Allied effort during World War II (1939-1945). During the war she entertained American troops and participated in war bond drives. She was awarded the U.S. Medal of Freedom in 1947.
Dietrich was born in Berlin on Dec. 27, 1901. Her full name was Maria Magdalene Dietrich. She wrote three volumes of memoirs, Dietrich’s ABC (1961), My Life Story (1979), and Marlene (1987). She died on May 6, 1992.
