'It was poignant, knowing that these were the last images she did': The intimate final photos of Marilyn Monroe
On the 100th anniversary of her birth, images from the Hollywood icon's final photoshoot reveal a carefree joyfulness that's far removed from the shocking tragedy of her death.
TL;DR
- The final photoshoot of Marilyn Monroe, taken by George Barris in July 1962, captures her in a joyful and playful state on Santa Monica beach.
- These photographs were among the last taken of Monroe before her death on August 5, 1962, at the age of 36.
- An upcoming exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery, 'Marilyn Monroe: A Portrait', will feature six images from this final shoot.
- Curators emphasize Monroe's strategic use of photoshoots to develop and control her public image, evolving into the star she aimed to be.
- By 1962, Monroe faced personal and professional challenges, including divorce, public scrutiny of her body image, and a reputation for being difficult on set, leading to her dismissal from 'Something's Got to Give'.
- Monroe actively participated in publicity campaigns, including interviews and photoshoots for Vogue and Life, to rehabilitate her image.
- The Santa Monica photos are noted for their naturalistic aesthetic and Monroe's unburdened demeanor, with some images evoking memories of her childhood and earlier photoshoots.
- Barris, who was convinced Monroe did not commit suicide, later published these photos in books, collaborating with Gloria Steinem and sharing his conversations with Monroe.
- Monroe's own editing of her photos, crossing through images she disliked, is seen as a significant act of control and a reflection of her complex relationship with her image.