Drew Barrymore Recalls JFK Jr. Asking Her to Pose as Marilyn Monroe for 1996 “George” Cover

Drew Barrymore Reflects on Iconic Marilyn Monroe Cover Shoot for George Magazine

Drew Barrymore recently reflected on her memorable cover shoot for George magazine during an episode of her talk show on 5 March. The actress and television host recounted the extraordinary experience that began with a phone call from John F. Kennedy Jr. nearly three decades ago. This dialogue ignited her iconic Marilyn Monroe-inspired shoot for the magazine famously co-founded by JFK Jr.

In her conversation with co-host Ross Mathews and guest Valerie Bertinelli, Barrymore recalled the moment she received the call. She described being in bed when the phone rang, revealing her surprise at the request. “Oh my God, this is so crazy,” was her immediate reaction. Barrymore noted the immense public interest surrounding Kennedy and his wife, Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, comparing their status to that of modern celebrity couples, such as Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce.

Barrymore elaborated on the intense scrutiny that accompanied Kennedy and Bessette-Kennedy’s lives, saying, “They couldn’t walk out their own door without it being a red-carpet fashion runway.” She likened their public persona to that of royalty, noting that their lives were constantly under the watchful eye of paparazzi.

The actress shared insights into the nature of her conversation with the late Kennedy, saying she was unsure what personal touch he wanted to incorporate into their discussion about the upcoming shoot. Kennedy proposed an idea that would ultimately lead to a controversial editorial: posing as the legendary Marilyn Monroe. Barrymore acknowledged how closely the concept tied back to Monroe’s iconic performance for JFK’s father, President John F. Kennedy, when she serenaded him with “Happy Birthday.”

Responding to Kennedy’s vision, Barrymore sought clarity on his expectations regarding the tone of the shoot. “I really love some direction from you on what the tone is,” she said, questioning if the idea was to be taken lightly or with more seriousness. She recalled receiving Kennedy’s guidance, who clarified he envisioned a straightforward and confident representation, without an air of mockery or excessive flattery.

Barrymore’s interpretation of these instructions spurred excitement as she prepared for the project. She revealed that during the shoot, she felt it was important to capture the sensuality Kennedy expected while remaining true to the essence of Monroe. “I want it to be straightforward. I don’t want it to be buffoonery,” she recounted Kennedy’s instructions.

Following the session, Barrymore was pleased to hear that the team was delighted with the results. Once the magazine was released, her reaction to the finished product was one of amazement. “When I saw the magazine, I was like, ‘Oh my God, this is so crazy,’” she remarked, expressing her surprise at how the iconic images turned out, which were captured by celebrated photographer Mario Sorrenti.

George magazine was published from 1995 until 2001, two years after the tragic deaths of John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy in a plane crash near Martha’s Vineyard in 1999. During its short run, the magazine showcased various stars, each posing as historical figures; notable covers included George Clooney as Thomas Jefferson and Julia Roberts as Susan B. Anthony.

Reflecting on JFK Jr.’s leadership style during George’s operation, former art director Matt Berman described him as “definitely the leader of the pack” who possessed a unique ability to make everyone feel at ease. He compared Kennedy’s approach to that of Fred Astaire on the dance floor, suggesting that his influence fostered a collaborative and comfortable environment among the magazine’s staff.

The episode of The Drew Barrymore Show, in which she recounted this fascinating look back at her iconic moments, continues to air on CBS during weekdays, with local listings available for viewers interested in tuning in.

As Barrymore fondly revisited this pivotal moment in her career, it offers a glimpse into the complexities of celebrity culture and the lasting impact of historical figures, even when viewed through the lens of a modern-day magazine cover.