LONDON: A special exhibition marking the 100th birth anniversary of Marilyn Monroe will present a rare collection of her personal belongings, offering fans a deeper glimpse into the life behind the legendary icon.
The exhibition, titled “Marilyn Monroe: A Portrait,” is scheduled to run from June to September 2026 at the National Portrait Gallery in London.
The showcase will feature a diverse range of items reflecting both her public image and private world, according to reports.
Among the highlights is one of the final cheques she reportedly signed on the day of her death in 1962, linked to furniture purchases for her Los Angeles home.
The collection also includes personal artifacts tied to defining moments in her life and career, such as memorabilia from her iconic 1962 performance at John F. Kennedy’s birthday celebration.
A handwritten RSVP card reveals that Monroe personally arranged and financed attendance for guests, offering a rare look into her involvement behind the scenes.
In addition to historic documents, the exhibition will showcase Monroe’s lasting influence on fashion and self-image.
Visitors will see custom-made clothing, including unfinished gowns designed specifically for her, alongside everyday items reflecting her off-screen life.
A mirror from her Brentwood home—where she is said to have studied and perfected her appearance—will also be on display, highlighting the care she took in shaping her global persona.
Curators say the exhibition seeks to explore the contrast between her private identity as Norma Jeane and the glamorous image of Marilyn Monroe.
It offers insight into her creative process and the deliberate way she built her stardom.
The event forms part of wider centenary celebrations honouring her enduring legacy, which continues to influence film, fashion, and modern celebrity culture decades after her passing.
