The article is an opinion piece by journalist Julie Burchill reflecting on the lasting influence and cultural significance of Marilyn Monroe as the world approaches the 100th anniversary of the actress’s birth.

Burchill discusses Monroe not only as a Hollywood star but also as a symbol of glamour, vulnerability and celebrity culture whose image has remained recognisable decades after her death.

The piece highlights Monroe’s natural beauty, charisma and emotional complexity, arguing that she continues to fascinate audiences because she embodied both fame and fragility.

The article also examines how Monroe’s public image was shaped by the entertainment industry and the media, often reducing her to a glamorous stereotype while overlooking her intelligence and ambition.

Burchill suggests that Monroe’s struggles with relationships, mental health and the pressures of stardom contributed to the tragic narrative that still surrounds her legacy today.

In addition, the commentary explores the way Monroe has been repeatedly reinterpreted by later generations through films, fashion, photography and popular culture.

Her influence on beauty standards and celebrity branding is presented as unparalleled, with modern public figures still drawing inspiration from her style and persona.

Overall, the article serves as a tribute to Monroe’s enduring appeal and argues that her image remains timeless because she represented both the dream and the darker realities of fame in the twentieth century.