Marilyn Monroe

Marilyn Monroe (born Norma Jeane Mortenson; June 1, 1926 – August 4, 1962) was an American actress, model, and singer whose career in Hollywood during the 1950s made her one of the most recognized celebrities of her era, particularly noted for her comedic roles and embodiment of the "blonde bombshell" archetype. Born in Los Angeles to Gladys Pearl Baker, Monroe spent much of her childhood in foster homes and an orphanage due to her mother's mental health issues and institutionalization. She began as a factory worker and model before signing with 20th Century Fox in 1946, adopting the stage name Marilyn Monroe.

Her breakthrough came in 1953 with starring roles in Niagara, showcasing her dramatic potential through overt reliance on her physical appeal, and the musical comedies Gentlemen Prefer Blondes and How to Marry a Millionaire, which established her as a box-office draw. Subsequent acclaimed performances included Bus Stop (1956), for which she received praise for her acting depth, and Some Like It Hot (1959), a critical and commercial success that highlighted her timing in farce. Monroe married three times: to James Dougherty in 1942 at age 16, baseball player Joe DiMaggio in 1954 (ending after nine months amid reported tensions over her career), and playwright Arthur Miller from 1956 to 1961.