Marilyn Monroe’s Iconic Subway Grate Image: Photographer Tells The Real Story Behind the ‘Shot Seen Round The World’

The untold tale of Marilyn Monroe’s iconic subway grate photo

In the world of Hollywood icons, Marilyn Monroe stands out as one of the most enduring and captivating figures of all time. From her undeniable beauty to her timeless style, Monroe continues to fascinate audiences decades after her tragic death. One of the most iconic images of Monroe is the famous photograph of her standing above a subway grate in a billowing white dress, taken during the filming of “The Seven Year Itch.”

Recently, new details have emerged about the story behind this legendary photo, shedding light on how it came to be and the creative minds behind it. Photographer Sam Shaw, who was a close friend of Monroe’s, played a pivotal role in capturing this moment that would go on to become one of the most recognisable images in cinematic history.

Shaw, who passed away in 1999, left behind a treasure trove of unseen images and letters that offer a glimpse into his relationship with Monroe and the creative process behind the subway grate photo. In the book “Dear Marilyn: The Unseen Letters and Photographs,” Shaw reveals that the idea for the iconic image was actually inspired by a similar shot he had taken over a decade prior at Coney Island.

The subway grate scene in “The Seven Year Itch” was carefully orchestrated by Shaw, who worked closely with the film’s director and producer to bring his vision to life. From arranging for police officers to manage the crowd to using a wind machine to create the perfect breeze for Monroe’s dress, every detail was meticulously planned to ensure the success of the shot.

On the day of the photo shoot, thousands of fans and press gathered to witness Monroe’s captivating presence. Despite the chaotic scene, Shaw managed to capture the perfect moment as Monroe stood above the grate, her dress billowing in the wind. The image was later syndicated and became known as the “shot seen ’round the world,” solidifying Monroe’s status as a true Hollywood icon.

While the iconic photo captured on the streets of New York City became instantly recognisable, it had to be recreated in a controlled studio setting in Los Angeles for the film’s advertisement. The meticulous attention to detail, from lighting to wind velocity, ensured that the recreated shot matched the original moment captured on the busy streets of New York.

Monroe’s tragic death in 1962 at the age of 36 only added to the mystique surrounding her and cemented her status as a timeless Hollywood legend. The release of “Dear Marilyn: The Unseen Letters and Photographs” offers fans a rare glimpse behind the scenes of Monroe’s life and the creative process that produced some of her most iconic images.

In a world where Hollywood glamour meets real-life drama, the story behind Marilyn Monroe’s subway grate photo serves as a reminder of the enduring power of a single image to capture the essence of a true star. As fans continue to be captivated by Monroe’s beauty and talent, the legacy of this iconic photo lives on as a testament to her lasting impact on the world of entertainment.