Ditra Flame

Ditra Flame (born Ditra Helena Mefford; August 4, 1905 – February 23, 1984), also known by her legal adoptive name Princess Orvella Wilson, was an American musician, vaudeville dancer and religious figure. In the late 1920s and 1930s, she led an all-female musical ensemble known as "The Blondes, Brunettes, and Redheads". The group was a popular fixture on the Vaudeville circuit and in Hollywood, often specializing in Mexican and Spanish musical repertoires.

The Valentino Memorial Guild In 1947, Flame ended years of media speculation by revealing her identity. Her home was reportedly found filled with Valentino memorabilia, including a locket and a rosary she claimed were personal gifts from the actor.

Legacy Flame's ritual created a lasting Hollywood archetype and established the longest-running annual tribute in film history.

In popular culture The mystery and folklore of the "Lady in Black" about Ditra Flame have been recurring themes in Hollywood media and music. The 1959 country song "Long Black Veil" is widely considered to have been inspired by the myth of the "woman in black" who faithfully visits a grave. The 2023 feature film Silent Life: The Story of the Lady in Black, directed by Vladislav Kozlov, explores the legend of Valentino and his mysterious mourner. Oscar-nominated actress Terry Moore played the lead role of the "Lady in Black", portraying a character that serves as an amalgamation of Flame and other historical claimants. The film premiered at the Sedona International Film Festival in February 2023, where it won the Best Indie-Spirit Award.