Why does this final resting place draw so many visitors still? This is the grave of Marlene Dietrich. Here in Berlin-Friedenau lies one of the most iconic figures of the 20th century.
Marlene Dietrich was more than just an actress and singer. She was a symbol of change. She embodied modernism and emancipation. Dietrich was admired. She was idolized. She was imitated. Yet, she remains an enigma.
Born Marie Magdalene Dietrich in Berlin on December 27 1901 Marlene’s early life hinted at the stardom to come. She discovered music. She took violin lessons. She had a keen interest in theatre and film. The Berlin metropolis provided the perfect backdrop.
Her breakthrough role as Lola Lola in The Blue Angel catapulted her to international fame in 1930. This role led to a contract with Paramount Studios in Hollywood.
But Marlene Dietrich’s story is also one of moral courage. As the Nazi regime rose to power, they tried to entice her back to Germany for propaganda purposes. Dietrich refused to cooperate. She obtained US citizenship in 1939. She famously said that neutrality was not an option.
During World War II, Dietrich interrupted her acting career. She performed for Allied troops at the front. Her rendition of Lili Marleen resonated deeply with soldiers on both sides of the conflict. She also sang Where Have All the Flowers Gone. This became an anti-war anthem.
After the war, Marlene Dietrich continued her unique career. She appeared in films by Billy Wilder. Alfred Hitchcock and Fritz Lang also directed her. She enjoyed international success as a stage singer.
Her 1960 return to Germany was met with hostility by some. They viewed her stance during the Nazi period as a betrayal. Despite this Marlene Dietrich felt a strong connection to Berlin. She titled her autobiography Thank Heavens I’m a Berliner.
Marlene Dietrich spent her final years in Paris. She was bedridden and isolated. She died on May 6 1992.
In 1997 a square in Berlin was named after Marlene Dietrich. The dedication reads Berlin world star of film and chanson. Committed to freedom and democracy, to Berlin and Germany. She was granted honorary citizenship of Berlin in 2002. Marlene Dietrich’s journey came full circle returning to her beloved Berlin.