The actress, author, and daughter of the legendary Marlene Dietrich leaves behind a remarkable century-spanning legacy in film, television, and literature.

A Life Lived in the Spotlight

October 30, 2025: Actress and writer Maria Riva, the only daughter of Hollywood screen legend Marlene Dietrich, has passed away at the age of 100. Her death marks the end of an era that bridged the Golden Age of Hollywood and modern entertainment.

Born in Berlin in 1924, Riva moved to the United States with her mother as Dietrich rose to international stardom. Following in her mother’s footsteps, Riva carved out her own career in entertainment, appearing in television dramas, stage productions, and films throughout the 1940s and 1950s.

A Career of Talent and Tenacity

While Riva never reached the same level of fame as her mother, she was a respected actress in her own right, starring in television programs such as Studio One and Your Show of Shows. Her work earned critical acclaim for its emotional depth and grace, qualities that reflected her dedication to her craft.

Later in life, Riva became known for her writing. Her biography Marlene Dietrich: The Life offered an unfiltered, deeply personal look at her famous mother’s life — one that balanced admiration with honesty.

A Century of Grace and Resilience

Maria Riva’s long life was defined by art, intellect, and independence. Friends and fans remember her as a woman of strength who preserved her mother’s legacy while also crafting her own. She is survived by her family and loved ones, who have shared that she passed peacefully.

Her death not only closes a chapter in Hollywood history but also celebrates a woman who witnessed — and helped shape — the evolution of modern entertainment over the past century.