Marilyn Monroe, born Norma Jeane Mortenson on June 1, 1926, was an American actress and model who became a defining symbol of the 1950s and early 1960s. Known for her comedic "blonde bombshell" roles, Monroe captivated audiences worldwide, earning a place as one of the most beloved and enduring pop culture icons of her time. Her films grossed an astonishing $200 million by the time of her death, a sum equivalent to around $2 billion in today's money. In 1999, the American Film Institute ranked her as the sixth-greatest female screen legend from the Golden Age of Hollywood.
Monroe's early life was marked by instability. Born and raised in Los Angeles County, she spent her childhood in twelve different foster homes and an orphanage before marrying James Dougherty at age sixteen. During World War II, she worked in a factory, where a chance meeting with a photographer from the First Motion Picture Unit launched her successful pin-up modeling career. This led to short-lived film contracts with 20th Century Fox and Columbia Pictures.
After a series of minor roles, Monroe signed a new contract with Fox in late 1950. Her popularity soared with roles in several comedies and dramas, such as "As Young as You Feel," "Monkey Business," "Clash by Night," and "Don't Bother to Knock." Despite facing a scandal when her nude photographs surfaced, Monroe's career only gained momentum, making her one of Hollywood's top-billed actresses by 1953.
In 1953, Monroe solidified her status as a star with leading roles in "Niagara," "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes," and "How to Marry a Millionaire." Her image as a "dumb blonde" was cemented, and she became a major box office draw. Monroe played a significant role in managing her public image but often felt typecast and underpaid by the studio. Her roles in "The Seven Year Itch" and other films showcased her comedic talent and reinforced her sex symbol persona.
Monroe's personal life was tumultuous. Her marriages to baseball star Joe DiMaggio and playwright Arthur Miller were highly publicized but ended in divorce. Seeking more control over her career, she founded her own production company in 1954 and began studying method acting under Lee Strasberg. Her performances in "Bus Stop," "The Prince and the Showgirl," and "Some Like It Hot" demonstrated her range and earned critical acclaim. However, her health and personal issues often overshadowed her professional achievements.
In the early 1960s, Monroe's career declined due to health problems, substance abuse, and professional conflicts. Her last completed film was "The Misfits," written by Miller. On August 4, 1962, Monroe was found dead at her home in Los Angeles. The official cause of death was an overdose of barbiturates, ruled a probable suicide. However, her death has been surrounded by speculation and conspiracy theories, leading to a reopened investigation in 1982 that acknowledged lingering "unanswered questions."
Monroe's legacy as a pop culture icon endures. Her image and persona continue to captivate audiences, symbolizing both the allure and the tragedy of fame. Despite the controversies, Marilyn Monroe remains a beloved figure in American cultural history, remembered for her charm, beauty, and talent.
That's all for today's episode. Join us tomorrow as we explore another significant event in American history. Thank you for listening to "This Day in American History." I'm Chuck Tanraty, signing off.
Share this post