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Today in History: August 4th, 1962

Photo Credit: Bettmann / Getty Images
Photo Credit: Bettmann / Getty Images

The Shocking Death of Marilyn Monroe

On August 4, 1962, the world lost one of its most iconic figures: Marilyn Monroe. Known for her captivating beauty and unforgettable performances, Monroe’s death was a major shock. Officially, it was ruled a probable suicide due to an overdose of barbiturates. She was just 36 years old.

A messy bedroom, two people standing in its doorway looking in.
The room where film actress Marilyn Monroe died, 1962. (Photo Credit: E. Murray / Fox Photos / Getty Images)

Marilyn Monroe, born Norma Jeane Mortenson, became a household name in the 1950s. Her roles in films like Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953) and Some Like It Hot (1959) made her a symbol of glamour and a cultural icon. Despite her success on screen, Monroe’s life was marked by personal struggles, including issues with mental health and substance abuse.

Monroe was found at her home in Los Angeles before dawn the following morning and had been dead for an estimated six to eight hours. The official report stated that she had overdosed on barbiturates, leading to her death. The news stunned the world and led to widespread speculation and numerous conspiracy theories about the true circumstances surrounding her passing.

More from us: How Marilyn Monroe’s House Became Her ‘Fortress’ – and Her Place of Death

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Monroe’s death left a profound impact on both the public and the media. Her life and death have continued to captivate people for decades, fueling ongoing interest and discussion. Marilyn Monroe remains a powerful symbol of beauty and tragedy, and her legacy endures as a central figure in Hollywood history.

TVN News Poster

TVN News Poster is one of the authors writing for The Vintage News