Gloria Swanson

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Gloria Swanson, born in Chicago, Illinois in 1899, was a legendary American actress and producer during the silent film era. With her striking beauty, extravagant style, and remarkable talent, she captivated audiences around the world.

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Swanson rose to prominence during the 1920s, starring in numerous successful silent films such as Zaza (1923) and Sadie Thompson (1928), becoming one of the highest-paid and most famous stars of the period.

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As the silent film era waned, Swanson successfully transitioned into the talkies but saw her popularity wane; she only appeared in one film between 1935 and 1949, instead focusing on other pursuits. She returned to the screen in 1950 earning critical acclaim for her performance in Sunset Boulevard, which saw her receive her third Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.

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Swanson was married six times, had a length affair with Joseph Kennedy (father of Bobby and John Fitzgerald) in the 1920s, and passed away in 1983, aged 84. Although Sunset Boulevard didn't herald a return to regular big screen ventures her legacy as a cultural and style icon endures, a century after her heyday.