Gloria Swanson was an American actress, producer, and businesswoman who is best known for her role as Norma Desmond in the 1950 film Sunset Boulevard. She was born in Chicago, Illinois in 1899 and began her career in silent films. She was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress for her performance in the film, and her career spanned over five decades. Swanson was also known for her roles in other films such as Sadie Thompson, Queen Kelly, and The Trespasser.