Marilyn Monroe's Centennial ~ 1926-2026
From foster child to film legend, the journey of Norma Jeane Mortenson—who became Marilyn Monroe.
Born Norma Jeane Mortenson in Los Angeles, California
Enters first foster home after mother's mental breakdown
Marries James Dougherty at age 16
Discovered while working in a munitions factory
Signs contract with 20th Century Fox, changes name to Marilyn Monroe
Breakthrough roles in The Asphalt Jungle and All About Eve
Nude calendar photos become public, enhances rather than destroys her career
Iconic performance in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes
Marries baseball legend Joe DiMaggio (divorced same year)
Moves to New York, studies at Actors Studio with Lee Strasberg
Marries playwright Arthur Miller
Some Like It Hot becomes her greatest commercial and critical success
The Misfits, her final completed film, with Clark Gable
Sings 'Happy Birthday, Mr. President' to JFK at Madison Square Garden
Dies at her Brentwood home at age 36
"I want to be an artist, an actress with integrity... I don't care about the money, I just want to be wonderful."