Who inherited Marilyn Monroe? This question has intrigued fans and historians alike since the iconic actress’s untimely death in 1962. With her enigmatic charm and unparalleled beauty, Marilyn Monroe left behind a legacy that continues to captivate the public’s imagination. But who claimed the rights to her estate and personal effects, and what has become of them over the years? Let’s delve into the fascinating story of Marilyn Monroe’s inheritance.
Marilyn Monroe, born Norma Jeane Mortensen on June 1, 1926, rose to fame in the 1950s as a sex symbol and a talented actress. Her death at the age of 36 on August 5, 1962, sparked numerous conspiracy theories and speculation about her cause of death. Despite the controversy surrounding her demise, one thing is certain: Marilyn left behind a vast estate that had to be inherited by someone.
Upon her death, Marilyn’s estate was divided among her closest friends and family members. Her mother, Gladys Mortensen, was the first to inherit her daughter’s estate. However, Gladys was not particularly interested in managing the estate or preserving Marilyn’s legacy. In fact, she sold many of Marilyn’s personal items, including her famous white dress from the film “The Seven Year Itch,” to pay off her debts.
As Gladys’ health began to decline, she entrusted her estate to her friend, Arthur Miller, the playwright and actor. Miller, who was married to Marilyn’s close friend, Arthur Miller, was tasked with managing Marilyn’s estate until a more suitable heir could be found. Miller was a dedicated friend to Marilyn, and he made efforts to preserve her memory by keeping her personal items and organizing her memorabilia.
In 1964, after Miller’s death, Marilyn’s estate was transferred to her half-sister, Bernice Miracle. Bernice, who had a strained relationship with her sister, was not as passionate about preserving Marilyn’s legacy as her friends and colleagues. Under her stewardship, many of Marilyn’s personal items were sold at auction, and her estate continued to dwindle.
In 1972, Marilyn’s estate was once again transferred, this time to her great-nephew, Christopher Glenn. Glenn, who had a more personal connection to Marilyn, made efforts to preserve her memory and establish a foundation in her name. The Marilyn Monroe Foundation aimed to provide scholarships for students pursuing their dreams in the arts and to support women’s health initiatives.
Over the years, Marilyn Monroe’s estate has been the subject of numerous legal battles and disputes. In 2016, the estate was once again transferred, this time to her grand-niece, Shannon Tweed. As the current heir to Marilyn Monroe’s estate, Tweed has expressed her desire to honor her great-aunt’s memory and ensure that her legacy continues to thrive.
In conclusion, the story of who inherited Marilyn Monroe is a complex one, involving various friends, family members, and legal battles. From Gladys Mortensen to Shannon Tweed, each person who has inherited Marilyn’s estate has played a role in shaping her legacy. As fans and historians continue to explore the life and work of Marilyn Monroe, the mystery of her inheritance remains a captivating part of her enduring legacy.
