Marilyn Monroe

When it comes to female celebrities of Hollywood’s bygone era, there is no one more iconic than Marilyn Monroe. Marilyn didn’t just act and sing, she revolutionized the entire industry so much so that her enduring influence can still be felt today. Long after her death, she has continued to be a major icon of pop culture. Marilyn may have had some ups and downs throughout her time, but we have to give her credit for her success.

According to The Guide to United States Popular Culture, “as an icon of American popular culture, Monroe’s few rivals in popularity include Elvis Presley and Mickey Mouse … no other star has ever inspired such a wide range of emotions—from lust to pity, from envy to remorse.” Art historian Gail Levin stated that Monroe may have been “the most photographed person of the 20th century”, and The American Film Institute has named her the sixth greatest female screen legend in American film history.