Dita Parlo was born on September 4, 1908, in Schöneberg, Germany, and went on to become one of the most notable actresses of her time. Originally named Grethe Gerda Kornstädt, she adopted the stage name Dita Parlo, under which she would eventually gain widespread acclaim. Her journey into the world of entertainment began not on screen, but on stage—she initially worked as a dancer before making the transition into acting, a move that would define her legacy.

It wasn’t long before Dita Parlo made her cinematic debut in 1928 with the silent film Lieutenant Diestel, directed by Richard Eichberg. This marked the beginning of what would become a remarkable career. However, it was her leading role in the 1930 Expressionist masterpiece The Blue Angel, directed by Josef von Sternberg, that truly brought her into the spotlight. The film’s success opened doors for Dita Parlo internationally, leading to roles in both French and British productions. Along the way, she shared the screen with some of the biggest names in cinema at the time, such as Jean Gabin and Gary Cooper—further solidifying Dita Parlo’s reputation as a talented and versatile performer.

When the Nazi regime rose to power, Dita Parlo faced serious challenges due to her associations with Jewish and leftist artists. As a result, she was banned from working in German films. Forced to leave her homeland, she found sanctuary in France, where she continued her acting career. There, she took on roles that often reflected resistance and resilience—stories that resonated deeply during those turbulent times. After France’s liberation, Dita Parlo remained active in the film industry, gradually evolving into a respected character actress. She spent the rest of her life in Paris, where she passed away in December 1971 at the age of 63. Even today, Dita Parlo is remembered as one of Germany’s most influential and courageous cinematic figures.

Looking beyond her professional achievements, Dita Parlo’s personality offers further insight into who she might have been behind the scenes. As someone believed to embody the INFJ personality type, Dita Parlo likely possessed a quiet depth that wasn’t always immediately visible. INFJs are known for being introspective and reserved, often keeping their true feelings closely guarded. This can sometimes lead others to perceive them as distant or aloof, when in reality, they’re simply selective about when and how they open up. Dita Parlo may very well have been this kind of person—thoughtful, reflective, and needing time to feel comfortable before revealing her inner world.

Yet beneath that calm exterior lies a strong sense of compassion. INFJs like Dita Parlo tend to be deeply empathetic, always ready to support others through difficult moments. They value meaningful relationships and aren’t interested in superficial connections. Instead, they invest in genuine bonds, often becoming the kind of friend who’s just a phone call away—steady, reliable, and emotionally present. Their ability to read people accurately helps them choose their inner circle carefully. And once you’re in, you’ve got a loyal confidant for life. People like Dita Parlo don’t settle for “good enough” in their personal or creative lives; they strive for excellence, driven by an almost perfectionist mindset. They’re also unafraid to challenge norms if they believe in a better way forward—integrity matters more than approval.

From an Enneagram perspective, Dita Parlo fits the profile of an Eight with a Seven wing (8w7)—a combination that brings intensity, energy, and a bold approach to life. Eights are naturally assertive and protective, often taking charge in challenging situations. When paired with the adventurous and optimistic influence of the Seven wing, this creates a dynamic personality: ambitious, fearless, and full of vitality. While Dita Parlo may have carried herself with strength and determination, her 8w7 traits suggest she also embraced excitement and spontaneity. She wasn’t one to shy away from risks, even when the odds were uncertain. Whether in her career choices or personal convictions, Dita Parlo seemed to live with purpose—and perhaps, a little fire.