Marlene Dietrich was more than just a glamorous Hollywood star—she was a trailblazer, a feminist icon, and a figure who defied the conventions of her time. Her life was one of constant reinvention, rebellion, and resilience. Marlene shattered stereotypes, not only through her groundbreaking roles on screen but also in how she lived her life off it. She was unapologetically herself—a woman who embraced her bisexuality, challenged gender norms, and carved her own path in a male-dominated industry.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into why Marlene Dietrich was a feminist ahead of her time, explore her fearless embrace of bisexual relationships, and examine how she inspired generations of women to live authentically.
I’m not an actress, I’m a personality.
Marlene Dietrich
A Feminist Ahead of Her Time: Marlene’s Rebellion Against Gender Roles
Born in Berlin in 1901, Marie Magdalene Dietrich (later Marlene) grew up in a conservative, patriarchal society that expected women to conform to rigid roles as wives and mothers. From the very beginning, Marlene rejected these expectations. She pursued a career in acting and music, a path that was far from conventional for women at the time. Her early success in German cinema eventually led to her discovery by director Josef von Sternberg, who cast her in the film The Blue Angel (1930)—a role that catapulted her to international stardom.
Marlene’s feminist impact wasn’t just about her career; it was about how she lived her life. Long before the term “gender fluidity” existed, she was challenging traditional ideas of femininity and masculinity. Marlene Dietrich famously wore men’s suits, tuxedos, and tailored trousers—outfits that were considered scandalous in the 1930s. She didn’t just wear them; she owned them, exuding confidence and sensuality in her androgynous style. Her bold fashion choices inspired countless women to embrace gender-neutral clothing, making her a pioneer of women’s fashion.
Glamour is what I sell, it’s my stock in trade.
Marlene Dietrich
Marlene’s willingness to challenge societal norms extended beyond her wardrobe. She was outspoken in her politics, her sexuality, and her refusal to adhere to the expectations placed on women in Hollywood and beyond. At a time when actresses were often typecast as damsels in distress or glamorous objects of desire, Marlene Dietrich insisted on portraying complex, independent women. She wasn’t afraid to play morally ambiguous characters or to take on roles that showcased her intellect and strength.
Bisexuality and Breaking Taboos
One of the most revolutionary aspects of Marlene Dietrich’s life was her unapologetic embrace of her bisexuality. In an era when same-sex relationships were taboo, she refused to hide her love affairs with both men and women. Her openness about her sexuality was groundbreaking, particularly in Hollywood’s Golden Age, where stars were often forced to present a carefully curated image of heterosexual propriety.
Darling, the legs aren’t so beautiful, I just know what to do with them.
Marlene Dietrich
Marlene Dietrich’s lovers reportedly included some of the most famous and influential figures of her time. Among her male lovers were actors such as Gary Cooper, John Gilbert, and Jean Gabin. But it was her relationships with women that truly set her apart. She was romantically linked to figures like Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, writer Mercedes de Acosta, and actress Claudette Colbert. These relationships were not just whispered rumors—they were part of who she was, and she refused to deny them even in an era of rampant homophobia.
I am at heart a gentleman.
Marlene Dietrich
Her bisexuality wasn’t just about her personal relationships; it also informed her art. Marlene brought an undeniable fluidity to her performances, blurring the lines between male and female desire. In Morocco (1930), she famously performed a cabaret act dressed in a tuxedo and kissed another woman on the lips—a scene that remains iconic for its boldness and sensuality. The moment was a powerful statement about sexual freedom, one that continues to resonate with audiences today.
By living openly as a bisexual woman, Marlene Dietrich became a symbol of liberation for those who felt constrained by society’s rigid definitions of gender and sexuality. She showed that it was possible to live authentically, even in the face of societal judgment.
Marlene Dietrich and Edith Piaf: A Passionate Bond Between Two Icons
One of Marlene Dietrich’s most intriguing and passionate relationships was with the iconic French singer Edith Piaf. The two women shared an intense and deeply affectionate bond, often described as a romantic relationship, though Marlene, ever discreet, refrained from publicly labeling it. Marlene Dietrich was captivated by Edith Piaf’s raw talent, vulnerability, and fiery spirit, while Edith admired Marlene’s elegance and strength.
Read here about Edith Piaf, Paris’ Daughter: The Raw Truth Behind Edith’s Legend
Their connection was fueled by mutual admiration and a shared understanding of the sacrifices and loneliness that came with fame. Marlene Dietrich was known to have supported Edith Piaf during some of her most difficult moments, offering both emotional and financial help when Edith Piaf’s health and personal life began to decline. Their relationship was a powerful testament to the profound, and sometimes complicated, love that can exist between two extraordinary women.
I haven’t been to Paris for ages. But this evening, when you were singing, Edith, I was there. In the streets, beneath its sky. Your voice is the soul of Paris. You took me on a journey. You made me cry.
Marlene Dietrich to Edith Piaf (when they first met)
Courage in Politics and War
Marlene Dietrich’s feminism wasn’t confined to her personal life or her film career—it extended to her politics and activism as well. During World War II, she made the bold decision to leave Germany and become an American citizen, publicly opposing the Nazi regime. Her defection was an act of immense bravery, as it meant severing ties with her homeland and risking the wrath of Adolf Hitler, who had reportedly admired her and tried to lure her back to Germany.
Instead of aligning herself with the Nazis, Marlene Dietrich used her fame and resources to support the Allied forces. She toured extensively to entertain American troops, performing under dangerous conditions near the front lines. She also worked with the U.S. Office of Strategic Services (OSS) to record anti-Nazi propaganda broadcasts in German, encouraging her fellow countrymen to resist Hitler’s regime.
Marlene Dietrich’s wartime efforts earned her the Medal of Freedom, the United States’ highest civilian honor. Her courage and commitment to fighting fascism showed that she was not just a glamorous star but also a woman of principle and conviction.
Courage and grace are a formidable mixture. The only place to see it is in the bullring.
Marlene Dietrich
The Enduring Legacy of Marlene Dietrich
Marlene Dietrich’s influence can still be felt today—not just as a cinematic icon but as a symbol of empowerment and individuality. She paved the way for women to challenge traditional roles, embrace their sexuality, and fight for what they believe in. Her androgynous fashion sense continues to inspire designers, while her fearless approach to life serves as a reminder that true liberation comes from authenticity.
Marlene Dietrich once said, “I dress for myself. Not for the image, not for the public, not for fashion, not for men.” This philosophy captures the essence of her feminism: a belief in living life on one’s own terms, free from the constraints of societal expectations. In every aspect of her life—her career, her relationships, her activism—Marlene Dietrich was a woman ahead of her time, and her legacy continues to inspire those who dare to defy convention.
10 Lesser-Known Facts About Marlene Dietrich
- She Turned Down Hitler’s Invitation
Adolf Hitler was reportedly a fan of Marlene Dietrich and invited her to return to Germany to make films under the Nazi regime. She not only refused but also became an outspoken critic of the Nazis, a decision that put her life at risk. - She Helped Refugees Escape Nazi Germany
During World War II, Marlene Dietrich used her wealth and connections to assist Jewish refugees fleeing Germany. She even sponsored visas and provided financial support to those in need. - She Was a Skilled Violinist
Before pursuing acting, Marlene trained as a violinist and hoped to become a professional musician. An injury to her wrist ended her dreams of a music career, but her musical talents remained evident throughout her life. - She Had a Complex Relationship with Her Daughter
Marlene Dietrich’s daughter, Maria Riva, later wrote a memoir about her mother, painting a complicated picture of their relationship. While Maria admired her mother’s talent and strength, she also described her as emotionally distant. - She Was One of the First Celebrities to Advocate for LGBT Rights
Long before it was common, Marlene Dietrich spoke out in support of gay and lesbian rights. Her open relationships with women and her refusal to conform to traditional gender norms made her an early advocate for sexual freedom. - She Was Known for Her Charitable Spirit
Marlene often gave away money and belongings to those in need, including soldiers during the war. She was known to carry around cash to distribute to people she encountered who were struggling. - She Had a Fear of Aging
Despite her confidence and strength, Marlene was deeply insecure about aging. She famously withdrew from public life later in her career, preferring to maintain the glamorous image she had cultivated. - She Was Fluent in Multiple Languages
Marlene Dietrich spoke German, English, and French fluently, and she also had a working knowledge of Italian. Her linguistic skills served her well in her international career. - She Was a Pioneer of Personal Branding
Marlene Dietrich carefully curated her image, from her distinctive voice to her iconic fashion sense. She worked closely with photographers and directors to ensure that her on-screen presence was unforgettable. - She Lived to See Her Legacy Celebrated
In her later years, Marlene became a recluse, but she lived long enough to witness her impact on culture. She passed away in 1992 at the age of 90, leaving behind a legacy that continues to captivate and inspire.
Marlene Dietrich was more than a star—she was a force of nature. Her life and career broke barriers, challenged norms, and redefined what it meant to be a woman in the 20th century. Dietrich’s story is a testament to the power of authenticity, courage, and the refusal to conform. She remains a timeless symbol of liberation, proving that greatness is achieved not by following the rules but by daring to rewrite them.
