See All the Stars Who Have Played Marilyn Monroe (Including This Surprising “Gossip Girl” Actress)

Numerous Stars have Portrayed Marilyn Monroe Over the Years

Marilyn Monroe, a timeless cultural icon, continues to captivate audiences even decades after her tragic death. From her humble beginnings in the 1940s to her untimely demise in 1962, Monroe’s legacy lives on through her iconic style and intriguing personal life. Her platinum curls, classic fashion sense, and enigmatic persona define old Hollywood glamour, making her a figure of eternal fascination and admiration.

Throughout the years, many talented actresses have stepped into the shoes of the legendary Marilyn Monroe, bringing her essence to life on screen. From Misty Rowe’s portrayal in 1976’s ‘Goodbye Norma Jean’ to Ana de Armas’ critically acclaimed performance in 2022’s ‘Blonde,’ Monroe’s spirit has been kept alive through various interpretations in film and television. Let’s take a closer look at some of the stars who have portrayed the iconic blonde bombshell.

Misty Rowe was one of the first actresses to embody Monroe in Larry Buchanan’s 1976 film, ‘Goodbye Norma Jean.’ Known for her bubbly on-screen presence, Rowe depicted Monroe’s journey from a young girl to a Hollywood star in the early 1940s. Following Rowe, Paula Lane took on the role of Monroe in the 1989 film ‘Goodnight, Sweet Marilyn,’ delving into the mysterious circumstances surrounding Monroe’s tragic death.

Catherine Hicks portrayed Monroe in the 1980 ABC TV movie ‘Marilyn: The Untold Story,’ showcasing different stages of the actress’s life. Hicks’ exemplary performance earned her an Emmy nomination for outstanding lead actress in a limited series or special in 1981. Theresa Russell also left her mark as Monroe in the 1985 film ‘Insignificance,’ portraying the actress in a surreal scenario alongside other iconic figures.

Susan Griffiths had the opportunity to play Monroe in the TV movie ‘Marilyn and Me’ in 1991, focusing on the star’s alleged romance with writer Robert Slatzer. Barbara Niven took on the role in HBO’s ‘The Rat Pack’ in 1998, depicting Monroe’s involvement with John F. Kennedy. Melody Anderson starred in ‘Marilyn & Bobby – Her Final Affair’ in 1993, exploring the alleged relationship between Monroe and Robert F. Kennedy.

Ashley Judd and Mira Sorvino both portrayed different facets of Monroe in the 1996 HBO original movie ‘Norma Jean & Marilyn.’ Judd played Monroe’s pre-fame self, while Sorvino embodied the iconic actress post-stardom. Their performances garnered critical acclaim and nominations for prestigious awards such as the Emmy and Golden Globe.

In 2022, Ana de Armas took on the challenging role of Monroe in the controversial Netflix film ‘Blonde.’ Despite mixed reviews of the movie itself, de Armas received widespread praise for her portrayal of the iconic star. Her dedication to capturing Monroe’s persona, including her signature breathy voice, earned her an Oscar nomination for Best Actress, a historic moment for Cuban performers.

Over the years, Saturday Night Live has seen various stars mimic Monroe’s distinctive style and voice, with Madonna and Chloe Fineman among those who have parodied the beloved icon on the iconic comedy show. Madonna’s portrayals of Monroe in the ’80s and ’90s, as well as Fineman’s spoof of the 2022 film Blonde, are memorable tributes to the timeless allure of Marilyn Monroe.

In conclusion, Marilyn Monroe’s influence continues to resonate through the performances of talented actresses who have brought her story to life on screen. Each portrayal offers a unique perspective on the enigmatic star, ensuring that Monroe’s legacy remains immortal in the world of entertainment.