How Model Norma Jeane Transformed Into Marilyn Monroe, the Hollywood Icon: From Hair Care Ads to Box Office Bombshell
Today would have been the cultural icon’s 98th birthday.
Norma Jeane Baker’s transformation into Marilyn Monroe (born Norma Jeane Mortenson) is among the stories that captures the essence of the Hollywood dream — and the darker aspects that can come with it. Born on June 1, 1926, in Los Angeles, she had an unstable childhood, moving between foster homes and orphanages.
In 1944, while working at the Radioplane Munitions Factory during World War II, she was discovered by photographer David Conover. Encouraged by agent Emmeline Snively of the Blue Book Modeling Agency, the budding brunette model lightened her hair to attract more bookings. Clearly, it worked.
In 1946, she signed her first contract with Twentieth Century Fox.
The studio head, Ben Lyon, suggested the stage name Marilyn, after Broadway star Marilyn Miller, and Monroe, her mother’s maiden name. Her early roles included minor parts in “Scudda Hoo! Scudda Hay!” and “Dangerous Years” in 1947. The following year, Monroe went platinum blond, and soon came her big break.
In 1950, she had notable performances in “The Asphalt Jungle” and “All About Eve.” By 1953, she had become a major star with leading roles in “Niagara,” “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes” and “How to Marry a Millionaire.” While she adopted Marilyn Monroe as her stage name in 1946, it wasn’t until 10 years later in 1956 that she legally changed it.
Monroe, known for playing the “blond bombshell” and defining an era of beauty, seemed capable of achieving anything. However, the smiling face adored on the silver screen concealed a challenging reality. Monroe struggled with significant mental health issues and heartache, including her tumultuous relationship with baseball legend Joe DiMaggio. On Aug. 5, 1962, the world was heartbroken to learn that Monroe had died of an overdose in her bedroom at the age of 36.
Over 60 years after her death, she remains a cultural icon.
In fact, Authentic Brands Group has owned her intellectual property since 2011, and Monroe can be seen in a variety of products, including intimates, jewelry, beauty and more.
In honor of what would have been her 98th birthday today, here are photos chronicling Norma Jeane’s transformation into Marilyn Monroe, from model to actress.
