Hollywood Commemorates the 100th Anniversary of Marilyn Monroe

Hollywood is celebrating a true icon as it marks the 100th anniversary of Marilyn Monroe's birth. Events across Los Angeles pay homage to the actress and model whose impact on film, fashion, and culture still echoes globally years after her passing.

The festivities kicked off in Hollywood, Monroe's hometown, where fans convened at the famed TCL Chinese Theatre. Commemorative gestures included a symbolic birthday cake and the placement of a hundred roses at Monroe’s iconic handprint. This tribute embodies her enduring presence in Hollywood’s Golden Age and her status as an enduring superstar.

As part of the centennial events, the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures launched a significant exhibition titled Marilyn Monroe: Hollywood Icon. This showcase features hundreds of original artifacts linked to Monroe’s illustrious career, allowing visitors to delve deeper into the life of the woman who overcame a challenging upbringing to achieve worldwide fame.

A highlight of the exhibition is the iconic pink dress worn by Monroe in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes during her memorable rendition of Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend. This outfit is one of the most famous costumes in cinematic history and serves as a focal point in the display.

Throughout June, classic screenings of Monroe’s films are set to introduce her cinematic legacy to new audiences. Fans can enjoy celebrated films such as The Asphalt Jungle, Niagara, The Seven Year Itch, Some Like It Hot, and The Misfits, all of which cemented her status as a key figure in 20th-century cinema.

The celebrations will culminate in a major auction featuring nearly 200 exclusive pieces of memorabilia. Collectors around the globe are expected to vie for unique items, including personal photographs, handwritten correspondence, beauty products, scripts, and documents related to her unfinished project, Something’s Got to Give. This auction underscores the lasting allure of Monroe's story and heritage.

Born on June 1, 1926, in Los Angeles, Monroe evolved from a factory worker and model into a worldwide cultural icon. Beyond her glamorous persona, she broke Hollywood barriers, established her own production company, and championed for the rights and recognition of women in the entertainment industry. A century later, her legacy continues to mold the aspirations of filmmakers, artists, and fans around the world.