Norma Jeane
Born Norma Jeane Mortenson on June 1, 1926 in Los Angeles, California, Marilyn Monroe became one of the world's biggest sex symbols, after beginning her career as a model. Draped in a fur shawl, Monroe can be seen here arriving at the premiere of There's No Business Like Show Business in style.
Becoming Marilyn Monroe
Mortenson signed her first movie contract in 1946, and subsequently dyed her hair blonde and began calling herself Marilyn Monroe.
The Life of an Icon
The iconic actress locked in one of her most famous scenes in New York City, standing over a subway grate as wind from a passing train blew up her halter dress for a scene in The Seven Year Itch. Here, Monroe leans over the balcony of the Ambassador Hotel in the Big Apple in March 1955, taking in the view.
Lounging at Home
After finding a great deal of success, the actress posed for a shoot at her Palm Springs, Calif., home.
Action!
Actor Don Murray carried a cowboy-hat donning Monroe on his shoulder on the set of the flick, Bus Stop. Monroe starred as Cherie, a saloon singer trying to make her way to Hollywood.
Married Life
Monroe was married three times during her lifetime (Arthur Miller, Joe DiMaggio and James Dougherty). In this shot, she headed out for a bike ride with her third husband, playwright Arthur Miller.
Quoting Marilyn
Monroe's acting career took off in the 1950's, after the actress wowed critics and moviegoers with her performance in All About Eve. "If I'd observed all the rules, I'd never have got anywhere," Monroe once said.
Sex Symbol
"Being a sex symbol is a heavy load to carry, especially when one is tired, hurt and bewildered," Monroe said of her success.
Pin-Up
Monroe went on to star in more than 30 films, including Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, How to Marry a Millionaire, The Seven Year Itch and Some Like it Hot.
Movie Star
During her lifetime, Monroe's sexy style, glamorous looks and hourglass figure turned her into an international superstar. Off-screen, she made history when she sang a famously breathy rendition of "Happy Birthday" to President John F. Kennedy on May 19, 1962.
A Tragic Ending
Monroe was found dead in her Los Angeles home at the age of 36 on August 5, 1962. Her death was officially ruled a drug overdose.