Profile of the Day: Marilyn Monroe

Today we remember Hollywood icon Marilyn Monroe on what would have been her 97th birthday.

Image: Marilyn Monroe / Wikimedia Commons

She was born Norma Jean Mortenson on June 1, 1926 in Los Angeles, California to Gladys Pearl Baker. Shortly after her birth, her name was changed to Baker. Her father’s identity remains unknown. Marilyn’s mother suffered from mental illness and spent much of her life in and out of hospitals. Growing up, Marilyn lived with several foster homes and married her first husband at the age of 16.

She was first discovered by a photographer while working in a munitions factory in 1944. She soon found success as a model and changed her name to “Marilyn Monroe.” After catching the attention of film studios, she quickly became one Hollywood’s biggest stars.

Sadly, on August 4, 1962, Monroe died at the age of 36. For 20 years after her death, her ex-husband, baseball player Joe DiMaggio, had roses delivered to her crypt.

To this day, Monroe remains one of the most popular and influential cultural icons in the world.

Explore Marilyn Monroe’s family tree on Geni and share your connection to the star.

View Marilyn Monroe’s Geni Profile