Celebrating Marilyn Monroe’s Centennial Across the Globe

The nation is abuzz with birthday celebrations, but not for the reasons you might expect. While there is controversy surrounding President Trump’s grandiose plan for America’s 250th with a UFC cage fight on the South Lawn, attention is turning to another significant commemoration.

Marilyn Monroe’s centennial is being honored worldwide. Events include a prestigious exhibition at a Paris film museum, ‘Cent Ans de Fascination,’ a show at London’s National Portrait Gallery, a concert in Japan, a display at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles, and a lively look-alike contest in Palm Springs.

Norma Jeane Mortenson, known to the world as Marilyn Monroe, overcame numerous personal challenges. These included dealing with a mentally ill mother, a father who abandoned her, living in 12 foster homes, surviving sexual abuse, and navigating Hollywood’s harsh environment. Despite this, she became a globally recognized icon of glamour and grace.

Among her enduring life stories is her time as the 1948 Artichoke Queen in Castroville, California. Marilyn forged her identity, donning a persona she described as a ‘veil’ over Norma Jeane, hiding her deep-rooted wounds. Her foster parents often sent her to the movies, where she dreamed of being wanted, a pervasive theme in her life.

Marilyn Monroe is fondly remembered for her role in ‘Some Like It Hot’ as Sugar ‘Kane’ Kowalczyk, a character who often faced life’s challenges head-on, much like the actress herself. On her 100th birthday, people worldwide are showering her with the adulation and affection she sought during her lifetime.