Today is the birthday of Marlene Dietrich, one of the most iconic and influential stars of the 20th century. The edit above and the musical reference works / birthday calendars below were made by me, Frieke.
Marlene Dietrich was born on December 27, 1901, in Berlin, Germany, and died on May 6, 1992, in Paris, France.
Dietrich achieved international fame with her role as cabaret singer Lola in the 1930 German film Der Blaue Engel (The Blue Angel), directed by Josef von Sternberg. This film is now regarded as one of the most timeless works ever made. In the 1930s, Dietrich moved to Hollywood, where she collaborated with von Sternberg on several other successful films, including Morocco (1930), Dishonored (1931), Shanghai Express (1932), Blonde Venus (1932), The Scarlet Empress (1933), and The Devil Is a Woman (1935).
Besides her film career, Marlene Dietrich was also a talented singer. She recorded several albums and performed in theaters and nightclubs around the world. Some of her most iconic and beloved songs include: Lili Marleen likely her best-known track, which became popular during World War II and served as an anthem for both Allied and German troops; . Ich bin von Kopf bis Fuß auf Liebe eingestellt also known as Falling in Love Again, from The Blue Angel; and Sag mir, wo die Blumen sind (Where Have All the Flowers Gone), a poignant anti-war song. These songs showcase Dietrich’s versatility as a vocalist, blending romantic ballads, politically charged pieces, and timeless classics. Her distinctive voice and interpretive style gave each of these songs a unique and unforgettable character.
During World War II, she was widely admired by soldiers from both Allied and German forces. She toured extensively to entertain the troops and volunteered for the USO (United Service Organizations). In 1947, Marlene Dietrich received the Medal of Freedom, the highest American civilian honor, for her exceptional contributions during the war. In 1951, she was awarded the French title of Knight of the Legion of Honour.
After the war, Dietrich continued acting in films, but she devoted more time to her singing career, performing in renowned theaters across the globe. While touring Australia in 1975, she broke her leg. Afterwards, she withdrew from public life. She passed away in 1992, having lived as a recluse for 15 years, in her apartment in Paris. She wished to be buried with her family in Berlin and was laid to rest at Friedhof III in the Friedenau district. Her gravestone bears her stage name and the inscription “Hier steh ich an den Marken meiner Tage” (“Here I stand at the milestones of my days”).
Marlene Dietrich is remembered as a cultural icon, celebrated for her talent, style, and unconventional approach to gender and sexuality. Her influence continues into the modern era, and she is often regarded as one of the greatest stars of all time.
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