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Marilyn Monroe

Marilyn Monroe (1926-1962)
The legend of Marilyn Monroe has endured for over 50 years, and underlines the fact that she is probably the most famous female sex symbol in the history of film. Pretty, curvaceous, and vulnerable her tragic death at the age of only 36 cemented her legendary status following her death in 1962.

Often derided for her acting ability, or lack of, Marilyn Monroe did bring charm and humour to her roles. For instance, her sex appeal was all the more effective because she underplayed it with innocence, notably in the grating scene in 'The Seven Year Itch'.

Marriages to high profile husbands such as baseball star Joe DiMaggio and playwright Arthur Miller should have made her happy, but though both men loved her, her insecurities were never going to help her have a happy life. Ironically, in her final film, 'The Misfits', Marilyn gave probably her most powerful film performance. But, typically, her ambition to be a great actress was nipped in the bud. She was found dead on August 4th, 1962.

- Paul Rance/booksmusicfilmstv.com.