Dita Parlo(1906-1971)

Dita Parlo was a German actress known for her work in both German and French cinema. She made her screen debut in Le chant du prisonnier (1928) and quickly rose to prominence. During the 1930s, she starred in several acclaimed films, including Jean Vigo's L'Atalante (1934) and Jean Renoir's La grande illusion (1937), both considered among the greatest films in cinema history. She attempted to transition to Hollywood but found limited success, with plans to star in Orson Welles' adaptation of Heart of Darkness ultimately falling through. During World War II, she was deported to Germany as an enemy alien but returned to France in 1949. Her later career was sparse, with only two post-war film appearances, the last in 1965. Despite her relatively brief time in the spotlight, she left a lasting impact on cinema, inspiring artists such as Madonna and burlesque performer Dita Von Teese, who adopted her name in tribute.