Hi, I'm Sarah, a film historian with a particular interest in the Golden Age of Hollywood. I've dedicated years to researching and understanding the lives and careers of iconic stars from that era, and I'm always eager to share my knowledge.

The question of Marilyn Monroe's real name is a bit more complex than it initially appears. While the world knew her as the blonde bombshell Marilyn Monroe, that persona was a carefully constructed image crafted for the silver screen.

The woman who would become Marilyn Monroe was born Norma Jeane Mortenson on June 1, 1926, in Los Angeles, California. However, her birth certificate lists her as Norma Jeane Mortenson, with her father's surname, though her parents, Gladys Pearl Baker and Edward Mortenson, were already separated at the time of her birth. Edward Mortenson’s paternity has been disputed, and there is some evidence suggesting Gladys intended to name another man, Charles Stanley Gifford, as the father. Regardless, Gladys primarily raised Norma Jeane, and her surname changed several times throughout her childhood due to her mother's unstable circumstances and eventual institutionalization.

Norma Jeane's early life was marked by instability and hardship. She spent much of her childhood in foster homes and an orphanage, facing challenges and insecurities that would deeply affect her later life. This period was crucial in shaping her personality and her longing for love, stability, and a sense of belonging.

The transformation from Norma Jeane to Marilyn Monroe began in the 1940s. While working in a factory during World War II, she was discovered by a photographer and began a modeling career. She dyed her hair blonde, changed her name, and adopted the stage name "Marilyn Monroe" (taking her grandmother's first name, "Marilyn," and her mother's maiden name, "Monroe"). This marked a pivotal turning point, the start of her reinvention and the creation of a new identity.

It's important to remember that Marilyn Monroe was more than just a stage name. It represented a conscious decision to create a new persona, a glamorous and alluring Hollywood star far removed from the struggles of her past. This invented persona, while captivating audiences worldwide, also concealed the real woman, Norma Jeane, with her own dreams, insecurities, and complexities.

The name "Marilyn Monroe" became synonymous with glamour, sex appeal, and tragic beauty. Yet, it also served as a mask, hiding the vulnerability and pain of the woman behind the icon.

So, while "Norma Jeane Mortenson" is technically the answer to your question, it's crucial to understand the nuances and complexities surrounding her name and identity. Marilyn Monroe was a carefully constructed persona, a product of Hollywood's dream factory. However, behind the glitter and fame was a real woman, Norma Jeane, whose life and experiences should not be forgotten.
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Marilyn Monroe was born Norma Jeane Mortenson (later baptized as Norma Jeane Baker) on June 1, 1926, in Los Angeles, California.Dec 8, 2017read more >>