Gloria Swanson

Gloria Swanson 1941

American actress and producer (1899–1983)

Gloria May Josephine Swanson (March 27, 1899 – April 4, 1983) was an American actress and film producer. She was one of the most prominent stars during the silent film era as both an actress and a fashion icon. Swanson is best known for her role as Norma Desmond in the 1950 film Sunset Boulevard.

Early life

Swanson was born in Chicago, Illinois, to Joseph Theodore Swanson and Adelaide (née Klanowski). She grew up in a military family, which led to frequent relocations during her childhood. Swanson attended public schools in Chicago and later in Puerto Rico.

Career

Silent film era

Swanson began her career in 1914, appearing in silent films for Essanay Studios in Chicago. She quickly rose to fame and became a leading actress for Cecil B. DeMille's films, including Don't Change Your Husband (1919), Male and Female (1919), and Why Change Your Wife? (1920).

Transition to sound films

Swanson successfully transitioned to sound films with the 1929 film The Trespasser, which earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress nomination. However, her career began to decline in the 1930s as she struggled to find roles that matched her earlier success.

Comeback and later career

Swanson made a significant comeback with her role in Sunset Boulevard (1950), directed by Billy Wilder. Her portrayal of the aging silent film star Norma Desmond earned her a third Academy Award for Best Actress nomination. She continued to work in film, television, and theater throughout the 1950s and 1960s.

Personal life

Swanson was married six times and had three children. Her marriages included unions with Wallace Beery, Herbert K. Somborn, and Michael Farmer. She was also known for her high-profile relationships with Joseph P. Kennedy Sr. and Rudolph Valentino.

Death

Gloria Swanson died on April 4, 1983, in New York City at the age of 84. She was interred at the Episcopal Church of the Heavenly Rest in New York City.

Legacy

Swanson is remembered as one of the greatest actresses of the silent film era and a pioneer for women in the film industry. Her role in Sunset Boulevard remains iconic, and she has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Filmography

• Don't Change Your Husband (1919)
• Male and Female (1919)
• Why Change Your Wife? (1920)
• The Trespasser (1929)
• Sunset Boulevard (1950)

See also

• List of actors with Academy Award nominations
• Hollywood Walk of Fame