Marilyn Monroe: Glamorous photos of the tragic American icon

Marilyn Monroe, born Norma Jeane Mortenson on June 1, 1926, in Los Angeles, epitomizes Hollywood’s blend of glamour and tragedy.

Monroe’s childhood was marked by instability, moving through numerous foster homes due to her mother’s mental health struggles. This rough start did not deter her, as she ventured into modeling and quickly caught the attention of Hollywood, securing film contracts by the late 1940s.

By the 1950s, Monroe had achieved stardom with roles in “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes” and “Some Like It Hot,” highlighting her comedic talent and screen presence. Despite her professional success, Monroe’s personal life was tumultuous, marked by publicized marriages to Joe DiMaggio and Arthur Miller, and ongoing battles with depression and anxiety.

Monroe sought to prove her worth as a serious actress, studying method acting at the Actors Studio in New York. Her life, however, was tragically cut short at the age of 36 on August 5, 1962, due to a barbiturate overdose, her passing surrounded by speculation and conspiracy theories.