
Marlene Dietrich
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.
Filmography

Marilyn Monroe: The Rise of an Icon
2026
as archive footage

Erich Maria Remarque und Marlene Dietrich - Flucht in die Liebe
2025
as Self (archive footage)

Maria Callas: The Final Act
2024
as Self (archive photo)

Mythos Côte d'Azur - Liebe, Luxus, Leidenschaft
2021

Normandie ne partira pas ce soir
2021

Beautiful Like a Poem
2020
as Self (archive footage)
- No poster
Bodies and Spaces, Fabric and Light
2018
as (archive footage)

100 Years of the UFA
2017
as Self - Actress (archive footage)

Becoming Cary Grant
2017
as Self (archive footage)

Classic Movie Bloopers: Uncensored
2013
as Self (archive footage)

Vito
2011
as Self (archive)

Cameraman: The Life and Work of Jack Cardiff
2010
as Countess Alexandra Vladinoff (archive footage)

Rediscovering John Gilbert
2010
as Self (archive footage)

Why Be Good?: Sexuality & Censorship in Early Cinema
2007
as Self (archive footage)

Stardust: The Bette Davis Story
2006
as Self (archive footage)

Coisa Mais Linda - Histórias e Casos da Bossa Nova
2005
as Self (archive footage)

Hitchcock and 'Stage Fright'
2004
as Self (archive footage)
- No poster
Checking Out: Grand Hotel
2004
as Self (archive footage)

Complicated Women
2003
as Self (archive footage)

Marlene Dietrich: Her Own Song
2002
as Self (archive footage)

The Great Yiddish Love
2002
as (archive footage)

No Angel: A Life of Marlene Dietrich
1996

The First 100 Years: A Celebration of American Movies
1995
as Self (archive footage)

The Casting Couch
1995