Marilyn Monroe 100th Anniversary

[Luv2play]

I’m putting this thread in here as the observance of the centenary of Marilyn Monroe’s birthday is a look back at the influence she had as an historical figure, an Icon for the ages.
While she didn’t directly influence gay culture, it is noteworthy that on her June 1st birthday this year, dozens of gay men dressed as the blonde bombshell descended on Palm Springs, the gay mecca in the desert, to pay her homage.  
I can only think of one other figure in American culture who inspires this kind of cult worship by dressing as look alikes and that is Ernest Hemingway in Key West. 
Marilyn broke the mold for actresses in the 1950’s by embracing her sexuality and carving a new image of the blonde sex bomb. Jean Harlow in the 30’s was a precursor but was repressed by her religion and the times. Also her films were black and white.  Mae  West was another but the censor clipped her wings and she had to resort to comic innuendo. 
Anyway in the button down ‘50’s the world was ready for  a Monroe in America and Bardot in France. She will be remembered 100 years from now, of that I am certain.

 

[Luv2play]

Another interesting thing is that an auction house has put up for sale items that once belonged to Marilyn. Such artifacts as a bra yellowed with age and more controversially some of her medical x-rays. 
It was mentioned that she never made more than $100,000 per film while actors such as Elizabeth Taylor made millions. Yet most of her films grossed many times the money that Taylor’s did.
An auction held of Liz’s estate for the benefit of AIDs raised millions. 

[samhexum]

6 hours ago, Luv2play said:

I’m putting this thread in here as the observance of the centenary of Marilyn Monroe’s birthday is a look back at the influence she had as an historical figure, an Icon for the ages.

 

[Luv2play]

Maureen Dowd wrote a very insightful column on MM in the NYT today. One of her best. Captured the magic and tragedy of that very unique person that was Norma Jean.