The Academy Museum in Los Angeles has opened a special exhibit titled Marilyn Monroe: Hollywood Icon to celebrate what would have been the star's 100th birthday on June 1. The exhibition offers an in-depth look at how Monroe crafted her public image within the classical Hollywood studio system.
Exhibit Highlights
Hundreds of original objects are on display, including posters, portraits, photographs, production documents, letters, and rarely seen personal materials, many shown for the first time. Screen-worn costumes feature prominently, such as a dress from Love Happy (1949) and items from her final unfinished film Something's Got to Give (1962). Major highlights include two costumes by Orry-Kelly from Some Like It Hot (1959) and the famous pink dress by William Travilla from Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953).
Opening Event
The opening reception on May 28 was attended by Melanie Griffith, Joey King, and Barbie Ferreira. The exhibit is curated by Associate Curator Sophia Serrano with support from Curatorial Assistant Simran Bhalla and is made possible by CHANEL.
Monroe's Enduring Legacy
Born Norma Jeane Mortenson on June 1, 1926, Monroe died on August 4, 1962, at her home in Brentwood, Los Angeles, under suspicious circumstances. She remains one of Hollywood's most iconic stars, known for films such as Some Like It Hot, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, and How to Marry a Millionaire.
Auction of Personal Coat
Meanwhile, a gold brocade opera coat once owned by Monroe is expected to fetch up to $18,000 at Bonhams' Icons of Fashion sale in June. The coat, made by Hong Kong tailor Mohan's and featuring the initials MM stitched in red, was lent by Monroe to her publicist Patricia Newcomb, who wore it to John F. Kennedy's birthday celebration at Madison Square Garden on May 19, 1962. The coat has not been on the market since 1999.
Marissa Speer, Bonhams Head of Sale for Handbags and Fashion, US, noted: 'The highlight of the Icons of Fashion sale is appropriately a piece that belonged to a true Hollywood icon... The opera coat is a perfect example of her enduring style with a wonderful, monogrammed label adding a personal touch.'
Marilyn Monroe: Hollywood Icon will be open at the Academy Museum until February 28, 2027.
