Marilyn Monroe Continues To Inspire Us, 50 Years Later

Sunday, June 5, 2012 marked the sad anniversary of Marilyn Monroe’s death.

Although I was kept busy with house chores and such, I got to spend some time perusing the Internet, searching for all things Marilyn. When my mind is set on researching someone or something, the OCD and ADD comes out full blast and I take in all I can about the subject (e.g. articles, photos, videos, etc.).

Anyhow, I stumbled upon a great post written by Agnes Scotti from The Daily Beast titled “Why Young Women Love Marilyn Monroe”. In it, Agnes gives a brief bio on Marilyn (born Norma Jean Mortenson) and speaks about some of the horrific events the actress endured throughout her life, even some she experienced at a very young age. For instance, did you know the she survived being smothered at the age of 2? She also was nearly raped when she was 6.

Looking beyond the fact that Marilyn struggled personally with drug, alcohol, and relationship issues, Agnes goes on to explain that she believes Marilyn is and was a powerful role model to women, but not just because she was a pretty face. Along with her iconic beauty, the blond bombshell symbolized strength.

According to Agnes, Marilyn “was a role model who showed young women that they could triumph over a troubled past and still grow up to be anything they wanted.” She adds, “Even though she was the sex icon of her time, she was never a Barbie. She wasn’t especially skinny; she had a good sense of humor, and she seemed always to be trying to be herself.”

Very well said.

It’s crazy to think Marilyn would be 86-years-young this year (both she and my beloved grandmother, who passed away in 2009, were born in 1926). Though Marilyn’s life was cut much too short, I do believe she’ll continue to inspire women generation after generation.

Side note: Spicy has blogged about one of the most famous Marilyn Monroe impersonators before, Suzie Kennedy, who is definitely one of the best impressionists I’ve ever seen. On Sunday, I stumbled upon another impersonator, Susan Griffiths, while watching a touching video she made with photographer David LaChapelle, who directed it. At first glance, I thought it was actually Marilyn! She does an amazing job, but warning for you: You may get a little teary-eyed.

Go ahead and check it out below.