Exploring the romantic entanglements and rumored liaisons of Marilyn Monroe, from John F. Kennedy to Jerry Lewis, provides a captivating journey into the enigmatic facets of Hollywood's greatest sex symbol.
Over the years, Monroe's love life has transformed into a tapestry of mystery, intertwining with the legends surrounding her untimely demise in 1962.
Quoting her close friend and rumored lover, photographer Sam Shaw, "If Marilyn slept with every guy that claims he was with her, she would have never had time to make any movies."
Delve deeper into the tales of the most renowned men (and women) associated with the iconic Marilyn Monroe.
At the tender age of 16, still known as Norma Jeane Baker, Monroe entered matrimony with Dougherty, a fellow student at Van Nuys High School, in 1942.
Their union unraveled when Dougherty joined the Merchant Marines, and Monroe embarked on her modeling career, leading to their divorce in 1946.
Reflecting on their relationship, Dougherty shared with PEOPLE in 1976, "If I hadn't gone into the Merchant Marines during World War II, she would still be Mrs. Dougherty today."
Rumors circulate about an affair between Monroe and the legendary star's son, Charlie Jr., in 1947. Allegedly, the liaison concluded when Charlie discovered Monroe in his brother Sydney's bed.
Chaplin acknowledged the affair in his autobiography, and Anthony Summers referenced it in his book, "Goddess: The Secret Lives of Marilyn Monroe."
Comedian Berle and Monroe crossed paths on the set of "Ladies of the Chorus" in 1948. Despite Berle's official relationship with film star Adele Jergens, he claimed a brief affair with the budding actress.
Berle, the inaugural TV superstar, also co-starred with Monroe in the 1960 film "Let's Make Love." In his autobiography, he praised Monroe, stating, "Marilyn was on the climb in Hollywood, but there was nothing cheap about her."
Monroe's association with drama coach Lytess, during her short contract with Columbia Pictures in 1948, sparked rumors of a deeper connection. Their bond intensified over the next seven years, leading to speculation.
Lytess became indispensable to Monroe, who even moved into her home to prepare for the 1952 film "Don't Bother to Knock." Their relationship turned strained when Monroe's male suitors faced Lytess's disapproval, especially Joe DiMaggio.
Monroe addressed rumors of lesbian affairs with Barbara Stanwyck and Marlene Dietrich in her 1954 autobiography, dispelling them. She wrote, "A man who had kissed me once had said it was very possible that I was a lesbian because apparently I had no response to males — meaning him." Monroe clarified her identity, stating, "Now, having fallen in love, I knew what I was. It wasn't a lesbian."
