Academy Museum Exhibition Reveals Marilyn Monroe's Agency in Crafting Her Iconic Persona
On May 31, 2026, the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles will unveil "Marilyn Monroe: Hollywood Icon," an exhibition that will continue until February 28, 2027, celebrating Monroe's 100th birthday on June 1. The display will showcase more than 200 artifacts, including the iconic pink satin dress from "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes," which was originally bought for $12 and later obtained by collector Bryan Johns. This gown was selected after studio head Darryl F. Zanuck requested a more conservative outfit due to a scandal. The exhibit will also feature the sheer black dress from "Some Like It Hot." Curator Sophia Serrano worked alongside collectors Scott Fortner and Greg Schreiner, highlighting Monroe's careful management of her public persona. Her last film, "The Misfits" (1961), did not succeed at the box office.
Key facts
- Exhibition 'Marilyn Monroe: Hollywood Icon' opens May 31, 2026 at Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, Los Angeles.
- Runs through February 28, 2027, coinciding with Monroe's centenary (born June 1, 1926).
- Over 200 objects including personal documents, photographs, and screen-worn clothing.
- Pink satin gown from 'Gentlemen Prefer Blondes' by William Travilla, unseen since 1980s, acquired by Bryan Johns.
- Gown was a replacement after Darryl F. Zanuck demanded modesty due to nude photo scandal.
- Sheer black dress from 'Some Like It Hot' had leotard lining removed at Monroe's insistence.
- Monroe referred to herself in third person in scripts; curated by Sophia Serrano with collectors Scott Fortner and Greg Schreiner.
- Monroe formed Marilyn Monroe Productions after leaving Fox, one of first women to do so since Mary Pickford.
Entities
Artists
- Marilyn Monroe
- Norma Jeane
- William Travilla
- Darryl F. Zanuck
- Orry-Kelly
- Tom Kelley
- Jean Harlow
- Marlene Dietrich
- Beyoncé
- David Bowie
- Mary Pickford
- Bryan Johns
- Sophia Serrano
- Scott Fortner
- Greg Schreiner
Institutions
- Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
- ICON Collection
- Fox
- Marilyn Monroe Productions
- Screen Actors Guild
Locations
- Los Angeles
- United States