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Dita Von Teese

Dita Von Teese is an American burlesque performer, model, actress, and businesswoman born Heather Renée Sweet.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Dita Von Teese, born Heather Renée Sweet on September 28, 1972, in Rochester, Michigan, is an American burlesque performer, model, actress, and businesswoman. She is widely credited with helping revive modern burlesque and is often referred to as the “Queen of Burlesque.” Her stage name is commonly pronounced like “tease” in English.

Early life

Heather Renée Sweet was born in Rochester, Michigan, on September 28, 1972. Public biographies describe her early interest in vintage glamour, lingerie, and classic film aesthetics.

Burlesque career

Von Teese became known for elaborate burlesque routines and is widely credited with helping revive interest in the art form. Media coverage often calls her the “Queen of Burlesque.”

Other work

In addition to burlesque, she has worked as a model, actress, and businesswoman. Film databases list acting credits including The Death of Salvador Dali and Don't Worry Darling.

Personal life

Sources note that she was married to musician Marilyn Manson from 2005 to 2007. Biographical pages also identify her as having used the stage name Dita Von Teese throughout her public career.

Key facts

  • Born Heather Renée Sweet in 1972 in Rochester, Michigan.
  • Built a career as a burlesque performer, model, actress, and businesswoman.
  • Frequently credited with re-popularizing burlesque performance.
  • Known for highly stylized, vintage-inspired stage presentations.
  • Has also appeared in film and television roles.
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Canadian context

Dita Von Teese has toured internationally and is a recognizable figure in global burlesque and fashion culture, which gives her relevance to Canadian performance and nightlife audiences.

Frequently asked questions

What is Dita Von Teese known for?
She is best known for burlesque performance and for helping revive modern burlesque.
What is Dita Von Teese’s real name?
Her birth name is Heather Renée Sweet.
When was Dita Von Teese born?
She was born on September 28, 1972.
What is Dita Von Teese’s nationality?
She is American.
Was Dita Von Teese married to Marilyn Manson?
Yes. Biographical sources state that she was married to Marilyn Manson from 2005 until 2007.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dita_Von_Teese
    Supports: Birth name, birth date, nationality, occupations, and burlesque reputation.
  2. Wikipedia (German) — https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dita_Von_Teese
    Supports: Birthplace, profession, and role in New Burlesque.
  3. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0842258/bio/
    Supports: Birth date, birthplace, acting credits, and marriage to Marilyn Manson.
  4. Fandango — https://www.fandango.com/people/dita-von-teese-706438/biography
    Supports: Burlesque revival reputation, styling, and acting references.
  5. Wikipedia (Polish) — https://pl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dita_von_Teese
    Supports: Name, birth details, burlesque status, and marriage dates.