If my life could be lived again I would make every decision – except about being an actress – differently. But the result would probably be the same, so it has all been worth it.
Marilyn Monroe
Paul ‘Wes’ Kanteman: ‘I do remember when she died, as Uncle Jim had been given the word by an old partner of his who was investigating the case. It was early in the morning when he called and told my mother what had happened. I was sad and wished more than ever that I had tried a little harder to get in touch with her. I do believe that she and Uncle Jim would still be together if she hadn’t become famous. They were very much in love and were really meant for each other. She never did achieve the happiness with the others that they had together – at least from what I have read she was a pretty unhappy lady. A lot of years have now passed and I guess all I can do is keep the thought that she was my Aunt Norma and I really thought a great deal of her.’
Bill Pursel: ‘She didn’t find the little cottage and white picket fence; the three children and loving dog she sought. She loved the publicity and attention she attracted, but she was not happy. She sank into the quicksand of Hollywood like many others have done, but placing blame for the inevitable is folly. I was surprised at her death. What a tragedy. Norma Jeane had a pure soul, and an immense love of life. She was kind and generous; loved children and animals and had a strong backbone – she almost single-handed made herself a world-renowned star and was so profound I was almost afraid of her. To me she was like a dream and that is what she really was. Raising this past has brought melancholy to a very private part of my life and if Norma Jeane is looking down on all this, I hope she is smiling.’
Jeanne Chretien: ‘I was very shocked when Marilyn died, and very disturbed. We were driving back from Utah and heard it on the radio. My first reaction was, “Oh My God, I just can’t believe it was suicide.” I was very shocked and very sad. Gee, she was nice, and my mom liked her too.’
Bob Cornthwaite: ‘I always felt nothing good could happen to her. She had an aura about her that nothing good could happen. Of course, good things happened to her career, but she was so vulnerable. There were so many things she didn’t know and she knew that, but she always said, “I’m going to do it.” Her stubbornness was her strength and also her weakness. Perhaps she couldn’t help her behaviour, she was so disturbed emotionally and psychologically and just couldn’t help it.’
A. C. Lyles: ‘I join all her friends in Hollywood who had the privilege of knowing her; we remember her with devotion and love. Each of us felt a personal loss and the industry was deprived of a great talent at an early age. As time goes on she becomes more legend. One has only to say “Marilyn” and everyone knows that means Marilyn Monroe. Her first name is all the identification needed.’
Alan Young: ‘When Norma Jeane died I was very annoyed. I was saddened, of course, but very annoyed at how she was used – or misused – by people. She was so sincere and wanted more than anything to have a nice home with a nice family.’
George Chakiris: ‘When Marilyn died, I was in Japan making a movie and I remember being so sad because it seemed to be our loss. But she lives forever on film; she gave so much, she had a deep caring for her work and cared a great deal. Actors care about the parts they play, but Marilyn cared even deeper. She was glorious, something else. She stands alone and is incredibly unique. When I need cheering up, I watch “Diamonds” or the opening number of Gentlemen Prefer Blondes and it lifts my spirits. Marilyn was a lovely, kind person who wouldn’t hurt a fly; she was adorable but that isn’t even a good enough word. She was so gifted.’
Elliott Reid: ‘I was very sad when she died – surprised, but more than anything I was shocked.’
Peer J. Oppenheimer: ‘I have always believed her death was a mistake. I am convinced she simply picked up the wrong bottle or took too many pills. It didn’t occur to me then and doesn’t now that there was any foul play.’
Jim Gough: ‘The memories I have of Marilyn are of a friendly person, full of attention for everyone, from bricklayers to painters and artists. She was far from being a snob, an eccentric, or a manic-depressive during the times I spent with her. Marilyn was slender and full of energy, at peace with herself, and concerned about other people’s wellbeing. She was eagerly facing the future and anxious to see what might happen next. She was in full control of her life and seemed to be looking forward to her career as a mature actress. She was excited to harvest the fruits of her labour; her two most precious possessions were her house and her little white dog, Maf, whom she adored so much.’
Joe Coudert: ‘It was a surprise when she passed away, since she was so young. That made it even more tragic for us, and we were greatly saddened. I often wonder what Ms Monroe would have been like if she was alive today . . . Clearly, she would be the Queen of Hollywood.’