The tragic death of Marilyn Monroe
Marilyn Monroe’s untimely death remains one of the most compelling mysteries in Hollywood history.
The tragic loss of this iconic figure at the young age of 36 left an indelible mark on the world. Her life and legacy continue to fascinate people, sparking discussions and theories that are as vibrant today as they were over half a century ago.
Career
Born Norma Jeane Mortenson on June 1, 1926, in Los Angeles, California, Marilyn Monroe would become one of the most recognizable faces in the world. She adopted the stage name “Marilyn Monroe” while working as a model, and she soon transitioned into acting. Marilyn Monroe’s life was both glamorous and tragic, a blend of Hollywood stardom and personal struggles.
Films
Marilyn is known for her roles in a variety of classic films, such as All About Eve, The Asphalt Jungle, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, Don’t Bother to Knock, The Misfits, The Seven Year Itch, and How to Marry a Millionaire. She is perhaps most celebrated for her performance in Some Like It Hot, a role that cemented her status as a comedic genius and sex symbol.
Net worth
At the time of her death in 1962, Monroe had a net worth of $800 thousand, equivalent to roughly $7 million today after adjusting for inflation. She earned approximately $3 million from her film salaries during her career, the same as around $24 million before taxes today. Despite these earnings, she was known for her lavish spending habits.
Personal life
Beyond her acting career, Marilyn was a captivating public figure whose hourglass figure and radiant beauty added to her allure. Her relationships with high-profile individuals like Joe DiMaggio and Arthur Miller, as well as rumored connections with Marlon Brando and the Kennedy brothers, added layers to her complex persona.
The mysterious death
Monroe was found dead on August 5, 1962, at her residence at 12305 Fifth Helena Drive in Brentwood, Los Angeles, California. She was found lying face down on her bed, nude, with a telephone in one hand. Empty pill bottles, prescribed for her depression, were scattered around the room
The official cause of death was ruled as an overdose of barbiturates, leading to theories about whether it was an intentional suicide, an accidental overdose, or something more sinister. At the time of her death, Marilyn was only 36 years old.
Her sudden death shocked the world and left her admirers devastated. Known for her struggles with depression and substance abuse, Marilyn had sought refuge in drugs to manage her mental health and the pressures of her public life. Found lying lifeless in her bedroom, the news of her demise reached her millions of fans by morning.
Burial
Marilyn Monroe was buried at the Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park & Mortuary in Los Angeles, California. Her funeral, which was attended by close friends and family, became an event commemorated by artists, actors, and ordinary people.