Parsons, Louella (1893–1972)

US newspaper columnist. Working for the Hearst syndicate, she moved to Hollywood 1925 and began a gossip column and a popular radio programme Hollywood Hotel 1934. For over 40 years she exerted great influence (some damaging) over the lives of stars and studios. She published her memoirs as The Gay Illiterate 1944 and Tell It to Louella 1961.

Born in Freeport, Illinois, USA, Parsons began her newspaper career in Dixon, Illinois, soon after high school. In 1914 she moved to Chicago and worked as a reporter for the Tribune and Record-Herald, where she wrote a regular movie column. Parsons was hired by the New York Morning Telegraph 1918 before joining the Hearst syndicate.