All Things Marilyn

Send us Fan MailRecorded live on Friday, May 29, 2026, before a packed audience at the Los Angeles Public Library, this special episode of the All Things Marilyn Podcast is part of Marilyn Monroe’s centennial celebration.Hosted by Scott Fortner and Elisa Jordan, the conversation explores one of the most significant Marilyn Monroe projects to emerge in decades: Marilyn: The Lost Photographs & The Last Interview. Joining the discussion are authors Chris Flannery and Jason Greene, along with Meredith Landis, daughter of journalist Richard Meryman, and Karin Grant, widow of LIFE magazine photographer Allan Grant.Together, they share the remarkable story behind Marilyn’s final professional portrait sitting and final formal interview, conducted at her Brentwood home in the summer of 1962. Photographed by LIFE magazine’s Allan Grant, the session is widely recognized as Marilyn Monroe’s last professional magazine photo shoot. Although George Barris would later photograph Marilyn on the beach in Santa Monica, the Grant photographs represent her final professional portrait session and the last time she sat for a major magazine assignment. The discussion explores how Richard Meryman’s groundbreaking interview style allows Marilyn’s voice to take center stage, creating what many consider her most candid and revealing conversation.Listeners hear actual excerpts from Marilyn Monroe’s final interview, allowing Marilyn to tell her own story in her own voice. The panel also reveals new details about the iconic photo session, including the colors of the clothing Marilyn was wearing in the famous black-and-white photographs captured by Allan Grant.Meredith and Karin offer personal insights into the two men who preserved this historic material for more than six decades. They discuss the journalistic integrity, professionalism, and trust that led Richard Meryman and Allan Grant to protect Marilyn’s words and images rather than exploit them.The episode also features a brief telephone appearance by legendary Marilyn Monroe superfan and historian James Haspiel, one of the few surviving people who knew Marilyn personally. Haspiel reflects on his memories of Marilyn and shares what he would say to her if she were here today.Throughout the conversation, one theme emerges again and again: allowing Marilyn to speak for herself. Rather than focusing on myths, headlines, or speculation, this discussion centers on Marilyn’s own words, revealing an intelligent, thoughtful woman who remained hopeful about her future, proud of her newly purchased home, and determined to continue growing as an actress and artist.For Marilyn fans, historians, and anyone interested in Hollywood history, this episode offers a rare look at the people who preserved Marilyn Monroe’s final words and photographs, and why those voices continue to resonate more than sixty years later.ATM Podcast: @allthingsmarilynpodcastScott @marilynmonroecollectionElisa @la_woman_toursCredits Artwork by @marilynmexicoSoundtrack by @silver_technicolor

Send us Fan MailFor this special episode of the All Things Marilyn Podcast, released on June 1 in celebration of the 100th birthday of Marilyn Monroe, Scott sat down with James Haspiel, a longtime figure in the Marilyn community whose connection to Marilyn began in 1954 outside the St. Regis Hotel in New York. This is the first "in-person podcast interview" for All Things Marilyn as Scott was with Jim in his home. What started as a chance encounter grew into a personal relationship that Haspiel has spoken about for decades. In this conversation, he shares his memories of Marilyn both in public and in private moments, offering a perspective shaped by proximity, emotion, and the passage of time.This episode explores:Haspiel’s first meeting with Marilyn in New York and how their connection developed. His recollections of time spent with Marilyn in her homes, in public settings, and during key moments in her life. His perspective on Marilyn’s relationships with figures including Joe DiMaggio and Arthur Miller. Stories surrounding iconic events such as Marilyn’s appearance for John F. Kennedy at Madison Square Garden. His reflections on Marilyn as both a global icon and the private person he believes he knew. Throughout the episode, Haspiel shares vivid and often emotional stories, from his earliest impressions of Marilyn to his lasting memories of her presence, personality, and impact.This centennial episode offers a rare and deeply personal lens into the enduring fascination with Marilyn Monroe, and the stories that continue to shape how she is remembered 100 years after her birth.Don’t miss this compelling and unforgettable episode.ATM Podcast: @allthingsmarilynpodcastScott @marilynmonroecollectionElisa @la_woman_toursCredits Artwork by @marilynmexicoSoundtrack by @silver_technicolor

Send us Fan MailIn advance of the highly anticipated release of Marilyn: The Lost Photographs The Last Interview, Scott Fortner and Elisa Jordan sit down with authors Chris Flannery and Jason Greene for an in depth conversation about one of the most significant Marilyn Monroe projects in decades.Bringing together Marilyn’s final recorded interview with Richard Meryman and the complete archive of photographs taken by LIFE photographer Allan Grant, this new volume offers an unprecedented look at Marilyn in the final weeks of her life. For the first time, her words and her image are presented together in their entirety. Unfiltered, unretouched, and deeply human.Recorded just weeks before her passing in 1962, Marilyn Monroe’s final interview stands as one of the most revealing documents of her life. Conducted by Meryman and captured on reel to reel tape, the conversation preserves Marilyn’s words exactly as she intended. What originally appeared in LIFE magazine represented only a fraction of what was said.Paired with this interview is Allan Grant’s remarkable photographic session, more than 430 images taken inside Marilyn’s Brentwood home, with over 300 never before published. Captured in a single setting, with minimal styling and no heavy retouching, the photographs present Marilyn not as a constructed icon, but as a woman in her own space. Across the sequence, she reveals a full range of emotion through subtle shifts in expression, posture, and presence, demonstrating a mastery of image that is both instinctive and deliberate.Together, the interview and photographs form a powerful time capsule. Marilyn speaks candidly about fame, identity, creativity, and the pressures placed upon her, topics that remain strikingly relevant today. She challenges the public perception of her as a persona, revealing instead a woman of intelligence, humor, and emotional depth. Her reflections on art and performance underscore her commitment to her craft, while her observations on life and human connection reveal a perspective that is both grounded and insightful.Flannery and Greene share the journey behind the project, from their first meeting with Allan Grant’s widow, Karen Grant, to the discovery, preservation, and restoration of the original audio recordings. They discuss the responsibility of serving as stewards of this material, and the importance of presenting Marilyn as she intended to be seen and heard.The book itself reflects that philosophy. Marilyn’s words are organized by theme, offering a clearer understanding of the ideas she explored, while the photographs are presented as they were captured, preserving the authenticity of the moment. The result is not simply a collection of images or an interview transcript, but a cohesive and deeply personal portrait of Marilyn Monroe at a pivotal moment in her life.This episode offers a rare opportunity to go behind the scenes of a project already being recognized as one of the most important contributions to Marilyn scholarship in decades. Before the book’s release, hear directly from the authors as they share how these materials were brought together, and why, more than sixty years later, Marilyn’s voice continues to resonate with such clarity, power, and relevance.ATM Podcast: @allthingsmarilynpodcastScott @marilynmonroecollectionElisa @la_woman_toursCredits Artwork by @marilynmexicoSoundtrack by @silver_technicolor

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of All Things Marilyn, Scott Fortner and Elisa Jordan welcome acclaimed author and photography historian David Wills for a thoughtful and deeply engaging conversation about Marilyn Monroe’s enduring legacy through the lens of photography.Best known to Marilyn fans for his celebrated books Marilyn in the Flash and Metamorphosis, David shares the personal story behind his lifelong fascination with books, classic Hollywood, and Marilyn herself. From childhood memories of discovering old movies in Australia to working with original photographic transparencies decades later, his journey reflects a passion for preserving visual history and understanding the artistry behind iconic images.Together, Scott, Elisa, and David explore Marilyn’s instinctive genius in front of the camera, her collaboration with photographers, and how her evolving photographic image shaped public perception. David also offers insight into his upcoming book Marilyn Monroe: Body and Soul, created as a monumental tribute for her 100th birthday year.In This Episode You’ll Learn:How David Wills first became fascinated with Marilyn Monroe and classic HollywoodWhy Marilyn’s photographic presence remains unmatched in celebrity cultureThe artistic process of restoring vintage transparencies and negativesWhat sets Marilyn apart from other legendary screen stars in portrait photographyThe inspiration and vision behind David’s new book Marilyn Monroe: Body and SoulWhy Marilyn’s legacy still resonates worldwide nearly 100 years after her birthThroughout the discussion, listeners will gain a deeper appreciation for Marilyn’s intelligence, determination, and creative control over her image, qualities that continue to inspire generations of admirers today.About Our GuestDavid Wills is an internationally recognized author and photography specialist known for his visually rich books on film, fashion, architecture, and cultural icons. His Marilyn Monroe titles, including Marilyn in the Flash and Metamorphosis, are widely regarded by collectors and fans as essential visual studies of her image and transformation.With more than two decades of experience working with original negatives and transparencies, David is dedicated to preserving photographic history and presenting classic imagery with exceptional fidelity. His latest project, Marilyn Monroe: Body and Soul, is a large format tribute volume celebrating Marilyn’s artistry, intelligence, and enduring impact.About Marilyn Monroe: Body and Soul AUTHOR:  David WillsFORMAT:  Hardcover with dust jacketDIMENSIONS:  14 x 18 inchesPAGES:  288MARILYN MONROE: BODY AND SOUL is a celebration and an appreciation of Marilyn—the human being, the woman, the actress, and the icon.ATM Podcast: @allthingsmarilynpodcastScott @marilynmonroecollectionElisa @la_woman_toursCredits Artwork by @marilynmexicoSoundtrack by @silver_technicolor

Send us Fan MailIn this first episode of 2026, All Things Marilyn returns to mark a historic milestone: the forthcoming 100th birthday of Marilyn Monroe. Hosts Scott Fortner, historian, collector, and founder of The Marilyn Monroe Collection, and Elisa Jordan, author, tour founder, and Marilyn Monroe historian, reunite to explore the global celebrations, exhibitions, books, and conversations shaping Marilyn’s centennial year.After a brief hiatus, Scott and Elisa return with renewed focus, setting the stage for one of the most significant cultural anniversaries of the 21st century.This episode centers on Marilyn Monroe’s worldwide centennial recognition, including major museum exhibitions in Los Angeles, London, and Paris. Scott shares details about contributing personal artifacts from his collection to all three exhibitions, offering rare insight into how institutions curate and present Marilyn’s private life and public legacy for an international audience.The conversation also turns to Los Angeles, Marilyn’s hometown, where planning for a series of centennial events is underway. Elisa discusses the return of her Marilyn Monroe sites tour, alongside panel discussions, screenings, and fan gatherings timed around Marilyn’s birthday and the opening of major museum exhibitions in Los Angeles, Londoon, and Paris. A significant portion of the episode is devoted to the many books being released in honor of Marilyn’s 100th birthday. Scott and Elisa discuss new and recent publications, including:The Marilyn Monroe Century by Joshua John Miller, grandson of photographer Bruno BernardA forthcoming centennial book by David Wills, following his acclaimed titles Metamorphosis and Marilyn in the FlashDear Marilyn: The Unseen Letters and Photographs, from the Shaw family archivesMarilyn Monroe 100, the estate’s official centenary publicationMarilyn Monroe: The Last Photographs, The Lost Interview, produced by Jason Green and Chris Flannery, featuring never-before-published photographs and Marilyn’s final interview transcriptLooking ahead, the episode previews an exceptional lineup of upcoming All Things Marilyn podcast guests for 2026, including:Jason Green and Chris Flannery, discussing archival stewardship, unpublished materials, and honoring Marilyn’s final photo session and interviewDavid Wills, on creating a centennial book that blends rare imagery with new written scholarshipDawn McGovern, author of Murder Orthodoxies, offering an evidence-based examination of Marilyn Monroe’s deathJames Haspiel, who personally knew Marilyn Monroe in New York and documented their time together through photographs and filmThoughtful, historically grounded, and deeply personal, this episode establishes the tone for a year-long exploration of Marilyn Monroe’s legacy, one rooted in evidence, archival responsibility, and respect for the woman behind the icon.Follow All Things Marilyn on Instagram: @allthingsmarilynpodcastAnd podcast hosts:Scott @marilynmonroecollection  |  www.marillynmonroecollection.comElisa @la_woman_tours Podcast CreditsArtwork by @marilynmexicoSoundtrack by @silver_technicolorATM Podcast: ATM Podcast: @allthingsmarilynpodcastScott @marilynmonroecollectionElisa @la_woman_toursCredits Artwork by @marilynmexicoSoundtrack by @silver_technicolor

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the All Things Marilyn Podcast, hear Part II of Scott and Elisa's conversation with David Stenn. (In Part I, we covered the true origin of Marilyn Monroe's birth name, Norma Jeane.) In Part II, we talk about an article David authored for the September/October 1982 issue of Film Comment magazine, in which he detailed the incredible mismanagement of Marilyn Monroe's estate after she died, which lasted for 20 years. Through research that started with his review of Marilyn Monroe's probate file, David uncovered astonishing facts about how poorly her will was administered following her death. The people Marilyn wanted taken care of after her death had to wait years for their inheritance from her. It was all due to the negligence of one man. This all started when David asked himself, "Who is it that's making the money from all of the Marilyn merchandise I see?"We cover the following topics in our conversation:Was Marilyn Monroe really broke when she died?  Who did Marilyn leave her money and her personal possession to?Who was Marilyn Monroe's personal attorney, and executor and trustee of her estate? Who was primarily responsible for following the direct wishes of her will?Were the explicit directions in her will actually followed? Tune in to learn the truth about how Marilyn Monroe's last wishes were not followed until years after she died. David is an American television writer, producer, biographer, film preservationist and historian David Stenn. His television credits include Untold Hollywood, Boardwalk Empire, Girl 27, the L Word, 21 Jump Street, Hill Street Blues, and Beverly Hills 90210. He's known for his biographies of Hollywood Stars, Clara Bow and Gene Harlow.   Follow David online here:Instagram: @realdavidstennYouTube: @realdavidstennSee David's article in the September/October 1982 issue of Film Comment magazine here. ATM Podcast: @allthingsmarilynpodcastScott @marilynmonroecollectionElisa @la_woman_toursCredits Artwork by @marilynmexicoSoundtrack by @silver_technicolor

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the All things Marilyn Podcast, Scott and Elisa interview American television writer, producer, biographer, film preservationist and historian David Stenn. His television credits include Untold Hollywood, Boardwalk Empire, Girl 27, the L Word, 21 Jump Street, Hill Street Blues, and Beverly Hills 90210. He's known for his biographies of Hollywood Stars, Clara Bow and Gene Harlow. There's a commonly told story that Norma Jeane Baker, a.k.a. Marilyn Monroe, was named after two early film stars: Norma Talmage and Jean Harlow. Is it true? David read one line in the book My Sister Marilyn by Marilyn's half-sister Berniece Miracle, and then he started to do some research. Listen to our interview to find out the truth about the origin of Marilyn Monroe's birth name, Norma Jeane.This is Part I of a two-part interview with David. Our next topic will be "The Myth and Marketing of Marilyn Monroe."   Follow David online here:Instagram: @realdavidstennYouTube: @realdavidstennATM Podcast: @allthingsmarilynpodcastScott @marilynmonroecollectionElisa @la_woman_toursCredits Artwork by @marilynmexicoSoundtrack by @silver_technicolor

Send us Fan MailFor the premiere of season 3 of the All Things Marilyn Podcast, Scott and Elisa spend time with well-known television personality Holly Madison. Holly is the host of Lethally Blonde on Investigation Discovery, and she’s appeared on countless movies and television shows, and of course she was on the wildly popular series The Girls Next Door with Playboy founder Hugh Hefner. Like Marilyn, Holly appeared in Playboy magazine.She’s an author, a podcaster, a Las Vegas performer and a mom, and Holly is also a lifelong fan of Hollywood’s biggest silver screen star, Marilyn Monroe. In this episode we get to know Holly and learn about her love of Marilyn.How she discovered Marilyn and how Marilyn has influenced Holly.Her feelings on posing for Playboy considering Marilyn was the first cover and centerfold in the premiere issue of the magazine.Holly shares insights around being a famous blonde and working to be successful in the entertainment industry, and she shares her thoughts on Marilyn’s own journey. Holly’s favorite films, costumes and Marilyn Monroe books.Her favorite “Marilyn Monroe Moment.”Holly shares her feelings on Hugh Hefner being buried next to Marilyn. Holly gets very personal and shares her own experiences with body dysmorphia and also her autism diagnosis. We loved spending time with Holly and talking about her love of Marilyn. We're sure you'll love this intimate and personal chat with her. Don’t miss this episode!Keep up with Holly online: Podcast: Girls Next LevelInstagram: @hollymadisonFacebook: @hollymadisonTwitter: @hollymadisonTikTok: @hollyjeanmadisonATM Podcast: @allthingsmarilynpodcastScott @marilynmonroecollectionElisa @la_woman_toursCredits Artwork by @marilynmexicoSoundtrack by @silver_technicolor

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the All Things Marilyn Podcast, Scott and Elisa spend an hour with Mr. Greg Schreiner, Marilyn Monroe historian and collector, and President and founding member of the Marilyn Remembered Fan Club. Marilyn Remembered is the longest running fan club in existence today.  Greg is often considered to be the father of the Marilyn Monroe community. He has arranged the annual memorial service for Marilyn for 42 years. He has been interviewed for countless documentaries and is referenced in countless books on Monroe. Greg also arranged monthly fan club meetings for nearly 20 years. In his role as Marilyn Remembered President, Greg came to know some of the most important people related to Marilyn. In this podcast, Greg shares club meeting and memorial service memories, and he shares his thoughts on many guest speakers from club events, including:Jane Russell, Co-star in Gentlemen Prefer BlondesTony Curtis, Co-star in Some Like It HotEli Wallach, Co-star in The MisfitsDon Murray, Co-star in Bus StopJames Daugherty, Marilyn’s First HusbandJack Clemmons, Los Angeles Police Officer in 1962Sydney Guilaroff, Hairstylist George Barris, PhotographerBilly Travilla, Costume DesignerBebe Goddard, Marilyn’s Foster SisterSylvia Barnhardt, First Hairdresser to Dye Marilyn’s Hair BlondeJohn Minor, LA County Prosecutor in 1962Nancy Bolander, Foster SisterSusan Strasberg, Daughter of Lee Strasberg, Author, and Close Personal FriendGreg also talks about his extensive collection of Marilyn Monroe’s film gowns and personal property. You won't want to miss hearing about Greg's fascinating, decades-long journey with Marilyn. Learn more about Greg here:www.themarilynmonroesite.com www.hollywoodrevisited.comLearn more about Marilyn Remembered here: www.marilynrememberedfanclub.com Follow All Things Marilyn on Instagram: @allthingsmarilynpodcastAnd podcast hosts:Scott @marilynmonroecollection  |  www.marillynmonroecollection.comElisa @la_woman_tours Podcast CreditsArtwork by @marilynmexicoSoundtrack by @silver_technicolorATM Podcast: @allthingsmarilynpodcastScott @marilynmonroecollectionElisa @la_woman_toursCredits Artwork by @marilynmexicoSoundtrack by @silver_technicolor

Send us Fan MailWe had the pleasure recently of interviewing actor, director, producer, professor, and playwright Luke Yankee, who wrote and directs, Marilyn, Mom, & Me.  Luke is the son of Oscar, Golden Globe, Emmy and Tony-award winning actress Eileen Heckart, who co-starred with Marilyn in the film Bus Stop. In this episode of the All Things Marilyn Podcast, you'll hear great stories about Luke's mom and of course Marilyn: What was the relationship like between Marilyn Monroe and Eileen Heckart?What was it like to be the son of an acclaimed film and Broadway star?What impact did Marilyn have on Heckert?How did Heckert respond when she learned of Marilyn's passing? In Marilyn, Mom, & Me, Luke tries to unravel his complex, often volatile relationship with his mother by better understanding her intense friendship with one of the biggest movie stars of all time. Get more insights into Yankee's play, which is premiering at the International City Theatre in Long Beach, CA on February 16, and much more in this episode of All Things Marilyn.  ATM Podcast: @allthingsmarilynpodcastScott @marilynmonroecollectionElisa @la_woman_toursCredits Artwork by @marilynmexicoSoundtrack by @silver_technicolor

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the All Things Marilyn Podcast, Scott and Elisa interview Michael Arnold, grandson of photojournalist Eve Arnold, who photographed Marilyn Monroe several times. Eve was more than just another photographer of Marilyn’s, she was her friend and confidant. With this interview, listeners will hear new stories and discover new insights on Marilyn Monroe:Learn about what it was like for Eve to be a female photojournalist in a male dominated profession. Discover how Eve came to first photograph Marilyn, and hear about their very personal and intimate relationship. Hear stories about Eve’s take on Marilyn, and how Marilyn’s trust in others changed over the years. Learn about Eve’s time on the set of The Misfits, Marilyn’s final completed film. This interview with Michael aligns with the initial release of three high-quality, professionally printed archival prints of Marilyn shot by Eve Arnold, available for a limited time. The Arnold estate is making these prints available to Marilyn fans at a reduced rate of £280.00, worldwide shipping included. To view and purchase the prints, click here. Don’t miss this insightful and fascinating interview with Michael Arnold. ATM Podcast: @allthingsmarilynpodcastScott @marilynmonroecollectionElisa @la_woman_toursCredits Artwork by @marilynmexicoSoundtrack by @silver_technicolor

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the All Things Marilyn Podcast, we discuss and share opinions about the recent news that the City of Los Angeles Planning and Development Department  approved a requested permit to demolish Marilyn Monroe's home, located in Brentwood, CA. This was the only house she ever owned on her own, and the location where she passed away in 1962. The pending demolition was announced in a New York Post article. All Things Marilyn co-hosts Scott and Elisa review and discuss this issue with an elite panel of historians and experts, including: Gary Vitacco-Robles, author of several books on Marilyn, including Cursum Perficio: Marilyn Monroe's Brentwood Hacienda, Icon: The Life, Times and Films of Marilyn Monroe Volumes I and II, and Icon: What Killed Marilyn Monroe Volumes I and II; April VeVea, author of Marilyn Monroe: A Day In The Life and Puffblicity: An Appreciation of Jayne Mansfield; andRemi Gangarossa, writer, producer and director of a forthcoming short film on Marilyn Monroe, titled Marilyn's Dark Paradise. This expert panel has extensive knowledge about and history of Marilyn and her home. We chat about everything from how much Marilyn paid for the house in 1962 to what the motivation might be to have the house torn down, together with how fans have reacted and rallied together to save the house. Councilwoman Traci Park launched an effort to acquire a stay on any construction and a revocation of the demolition permit, which was unanimously approved by the LA City Council. But, what's next and how can you help?Don't miss this fascinating and informative episode!ATM Podcast: @allthingsmarilynpodcastScott @marilynmonroecollectionElisa @la_woman_toursCredits Artwork by @marilynmexicoSoundtrack by @silver_technicolor

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of All Things Marilyn we break down the facts and the rumors about President Kennedy's birthday gala at Madison Square Garden in New York on May 19, 1962. What are the facts? What's true and not true? There are so many stories, rumors, legends, and lies about this historic event: Marilyn bought five tickets at $1,000.00 to attend President Kennedy’s birthday gala, even though she was a performer! Who were the other four tickets for?What’s the history of the gown Marilyn wore to the event? Who designed it? How much did she pay for the gown? Was she really sewn into the dress? Is it true that it’s the most expensive dress in the world? Was Jackie Kennedy at President Kennedy’s birthday gala? Did Marilyn really give JFK a gold Rolex watch as a birthday gift that night? There are photos of Marilyn holding an item in her hand at the event. What was it?  Was Marilyn really intoxicated when she performed “Happy Birthday Mr. President” for JFK?  Did Marilyn and President Kennedy spend the night together after the birthday gala?  Did Marlene Dietrich influence Marilyn’s performance that night? Who really did Marilyn’s hair and makeup for the birthday gala?Get all the facts here. And, hear Marilyn's own words as she speaks about the event. ATM Podcast: @allthingsmarilynpodcastScott @marilynmonroecollectionElisa @la_woman_toursCredits Artwork by @marilynmexicoSoundtrack by @silver_technicolor

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the All Things Marilyn Podcast, we interview Christina Rice, author of “Mean…Moody…Magnificent! Jane Russell and the Making of a Hollywood Legend.”We had a wonderful time chatting with Christina about all things Jane. How she was discovered by Howard Hughes and Howard Hawks.Facts about her role in and publicity for The Outlaw.Why she was known as, "The Motionless Picture Actress."The true life parallels between Marilyn Monroe and Jane.Jane's relationship with Marilyn, both on and off the set of Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.Their cement ceremony at Grauman's Chinese Theatre.The impact Marilyn and Jane had on each other's careers.WAIF, a private agency that actress founded in the 1950s to promote the adoption of children.Tune in for a fascinating conversation about the life and career of Jane Russell, (AKA "Dorothy Shaw,")  Marilyn’s co-star in the ultimate girl buddy film, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. ATM Podcast: @allthingsmarilynpodcastScott @marilynmonroecollectionElisa @la_woman_toursCredits Artwork by @marilynmexicoSoundtrack by @silver_technicolor

Send us Fan MailFor the Season 2 premiere of the All Things Marilyn Podcast, hosts Scott and Elisa interview Francine Gifford-Deir, biological granddaughter of Charles Stanley Gifford and Marilyn Monroe's niece. Last year, Francine provided a hair sample for a DNA test that proved definitively that Stan Gifford was Marilyn's father. In this interview, Francine provides intimate details and stories about her family, and describes in detail what Stan Gifford was like as a person. Was the relationship between Gladys and Stan a fling or a true romance? Why didn't Stan accept Norma Jeane as his daughter?What was Marilyn's father like?  What was it like growing up with the stories and rumors that Marilyn Monroe was a member of the Gifford family? How did Charles Stanley (Chuck) Gifford Jr, Francine's father, react to the rumors?Did C. Stanley Gifford ever admit to being Marilyn Monroe's father? Learn all the facts about Marilyn's father's family in this revealing, touching, and heartwarming interview. ATM Podcast: @allthingsmarilynpodcastScott @marilynmonroecollectionElisa @la_woman_toursCredits Artwork by @marilynmexicoSoundtrack by @silver_technicolor

Send us Fan MailFor this episode of All Things Marilyn, we interview Emmy award winning journalist Marvin Scott, who at 15 years of age photographed Marilyn Monroe on March 31, 1955. She was making her first public appearance following her divorce from baseball great Joe DiMaggio. The event was a charity opening of the Ringling Brothers, Barnum & Bailey Circus at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Listen as Mr. Scott tells us how he gained access to the event and what it was like to be there. Also, hear the story of the personal interaction he had with American's reigning sex goddess. Mr. Scott has received countless awards for the nearly 15,000 reports and interviews he's completed throughout his career. This is the very first time he's ever been interviewed about his experience with Marilyn Monroe. ATM Podcast: @allthingsmarilynpodcastScott @marilynmonroecollectionElisa @la_woman_toursCredits Artwork by @marilynmexicoSoundtrack by @silver_technicolor

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we announce and discuss the discovery of an undated get well greeting card to Marilyn Monroe from her father, Stanley Gifford. For years it was believed that Gifford was her father, and it was proven definitively through DNA testing earlier this year. However, there was never any evidence that father and daughter had any kind of relationship. The discovery of this greeting card rewrites history. There was indeed some kind of personal relationship between them, and this card proves it. "I discovered the card purely by chance while I was preparing Marilyn's personal archives for auction at Julien's Auctions," said Scott Fortner, Marilyn Monroe historian/collector and co-host of the All Things Marilyn podcast, as quoted in a PEOPLE.com news article.  "This is the only known documented evidence of a relationship between Monroe and Gifford, which solves the mystery of whether or not she knew or had contact with her biological father."In today's discussion, Scott and Elisa cover many topics:What did Marilyn believe and know about her father when she was a child? How did Stanley Gifford and Gladys Mortensen meet, and what was the status of their relationship?Why did Gladys list  husband Edward Mortensen on Norma Jeane's birth certificate when she knew Gifford was the father?Who discovered that Gifford actually was Marilyn's father?What were the sources for the DNA testing?How did Scott Fortner discover the card in Marilyn's archives, and where has it been for all of these years? Did Marilyn Monroe ever meet her father? Marilyn Monroe's "Get Well" greeting card will be offered for auction at Julien's Auctions in Beverly Hills on December 17-18, 2022. This episode covers many fascinating and revealing aspects of Marilyn Monroe's life and personal history. Don't miss it! ATM Podcast: @allthingsmarilynpodcastScott @marilynmonroecollectionElisa @la_woman_toursCredits Artwork by @marilynmexicoSoundtrack by @silver_technicolor

Send us Fan MailIt’s been widely reported that Marilyn Monroe catapulted jazz great Ella Fitzgerald’s career by personally calling the owner of the Mocambo Club in Los Angeles to demand that Ella be booked there. Evidently, Fitzgerald couldn’t get her own gig at the club, and Marilyn promised that if she was booked, Marilyn herself would show up every night and sit in the front row, ensuring massive press for the Mocambo. Even Ella herself has told this story. It’s been used as the storyline for what a great civil rights activist Marilyn was. But did it actually happen? Did Marilyn Monroe really call the owner of the Mocambo Club to get Ella Fitzgerald a job there? Did she promise to show up for Ella’s show every night and sit in the front row? Tune in to find out.  Spoiler alert: It couldn’t possibly have happened the way it’s been reported. On this episode of All Things Marilyn, Scott and Elisa are joined by Hollywood Historian and author April VeVea. April has authored a book on Jayne Mansfield titled Puffblicity: An Appreciation of Jayne Mansfield: The 50s Pictures, and on Monroe, Marilyn Monroe: A Day in The Life. As part of April’s research through the years, she’s discovered some very interesting facts about old Hollywood, including the truth behind the infamous story about Monroe, Fitzgerald and the Mocambo Club. April’s website is www.classicblondes.com. You can follow her online on Twitter and Instagram. Twitter: @classicblondessInstagram: @classichollywoodwomen Buy April’s books on Amazon.com here. ATM Podcast: @allthingsmarilynpodcastScott @marilynmonroecollectionElisa @la_woman_toursCredits Artwork by @marilynmexicoSoundtrack by @silver_technicolor

Send us Fan MailOn this episode of All Things Marilyn, our very special guest is internationally acclaimed make-up artist Erin Parsons.  Erin is one of the industry’s most sought-after makeup artists, doing makeup for the world’s most famous fashion models, including @gigihadid, @bellahadid, @kendalljenner, @gisele, @adrianalima and @emilydidonato. Erin and her work have been featured in Chaos, Harper’s Bazaar, Purple, and V Magazine, along with the American, British, Italian and Japanese editions of Vogue. Her clients include Schiaparelli, Reebok, Tommy Hilfiger, Ermanno Scervino Zara, and Calvin Klein. Parsons keyed Jean-Paul Gaultier's final runway show in Paris in 2019, and she was also celebrated as a beauty trailblazer with her inclusion on the British Fashion Council’s New Wave: Creatives 2019 list, which acknowledges the most innovative and inspiring young creative talent from around the world.Of course, we talk all things Marilyn.How did Marilyn inspire Erin? How did Marilyn create her iconic looks, and how did they change over time? What were Marilyn’s beauty secrets?How can someone recreate Marilyn’s classic look?  Follow Erin Online! @erinparsonsmakeup on IG and TikTok. See her portfolio at www.erinparsons.com.  ATM Podcast: @allthingsmarilynpodcastScott @marilynmonroecollectionElisa @la_woman_toursCredits Artwork by @marilynmexicoSoundtrack by @silver_technicolor

Send us Fan MailAll Things Marilyn is pleased to present our next episode, which focuses on Marilyn’s final home, located at 12305 Fifth Helena Drive in Brentwood, California, an exclusive suburban neighborhood in the Westside region of Los Angeles. In this podcast, we review the story of Marilyn purchasing what would become the first and only home she’d ever own by herself at the age of 35: What was it about the Brentwood house that drew her to it?What role did former husband Joe DiMaggio play in Marilyn buying the home?How did Ralph Greenson influence her purchase decisions, and her interior design style?Why was the house, and Marilyn’s bedroom in particular, in such a disarray as seen in police investigation photos?   We also dive into some of the persistent rumors that have surfaced over the years following her untimely death in her Brentwood house:   Was the water to the home really turned off the day she died?Was there really evidence of the house being wire tapped and bugged?Was housekeep Eunice Murray really doing laundry the morning of August 5 when police officers arrived at the home? Did Marilyn even own a washer and dryer? Joining us for this episode is noted author and historian Gary Vitacco-Robles. Gary has written two exceptional books on Marilyn: Cursum Perficio: Marilyn Monroe’s Brentwood Hacienda, The Story of Her Final Months, and Icon: The Life, Times, & Films of Marilyn Monroe. Cursum Perficio is the only book ever published on Marilyn’s Fifth Helena Drive home. Gary conducted extensive research into all aspects of Marilyn’s time there, much of which we touch on in this episode. This episode of All Things Marilyn is a “must listen,” so don’t miss it.  Pick up your copies of Gary’s books here: Cursum Perficio: Marilyn Monroe’s Brentwood Hacienda, The Story of Her Final Months   Icon: The Life, Times, & Films of Marilyn Monroe Volume I  |  Volume IIVisit Gary’s website at www.behindtheicon.com and follow him on Facebook here. ATM Podcast: @allthingsmarilynpodcastScott @marilynmonroecollectionElisa @la_woman_toursCredits Artwork by @marilynmexicoSoundtrack by @silver_technicolor

Send us Fan MailWe’re going back to Marilyn’s Hollywood roots with our first guest on the All Things Marilyn podcast. We're thrilled to interview Jean Harlow author, historian and collector Darrell Rooney.How much do you know about Harlow? Was Harlow a childhood idol of Marilyn’s? How did Marilyn discover Jean Harlow?What were the similarities between the two film stars?Was Marilyn the first “platinum blonde,” or was it actually Jean Harlow? Did Marilyn recreate many of Harlow’s famous photographs?Did Marilyn actually want to be the new Jean Harlow? Did the two paths of these screen legends ever cross, even though they died 25 years apart? Marilyn even collected Jean Harlow memorabilia! As a child, young Norma Jeane gathered cigarette cards with photos of movie stars from the golden age of Hollywood. She saved them in an album issued by John Player & Sons tobacco company. Celebrities included in the album are Jean Harlow, Clark Gable, Bette Davis, Joan Crawford, Gary Cooper, Greta Garbo, Robert Montgomery and many others. Marilyn saved this item from her childhood. Today, the album, which is fully complete with all cards, is a cherished artifact owned by the Marilyn Monroe Collection.About Darrell RooneyDarrell Rooney is an award-winning Animation Director, his most notable credit being “Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride." He has worked on everything from “Beauty and the Beast” and “Aladdin” at Disney, to “Family Dog” and “The Brave Little Toaster,” and  recently, all of the “Hotel Transylvania” movies at Sony. His interest in Jean Harlow began in the late 60s - early 70s when there was a big nostalgia boom. John Kobal glamour photography books introduced him to the radiant Jean Harlow. He thought she had a face like sunshine. He started collecting photos and anything he could find on Harlow, never dreaming that someday he would own objects that actually belonged to her. The Ignatieff mural was a 1932 gift to Jean from husband Paul Bern. He is now considered to be the custodian of this important artifact. In 2017, he rescued the long lost 1937 Harlow painting “Farewell to Earth.” Jean Harlow’s 100th birthday was celebrated with the release of Harlow in Hollywood in 2011, which he co-authored with the talented Mark Alan Vieira. His crowning glory was mounting two popular exhibitions of Jean Harlow memorabilia at the Hollywood Museum in the historic Max Factor Building. Harlow in Hollywood is just about to be re-released in a new updated edition coming out sometime in October, 2022. Follow Darrell online on Facebook and Instagram!ATM Podcast: @allthingsmarilynpodcastScott @marilynmonroecollectionElisa @la_woman_toursCredits Artwork by @marilynmexicoSoundtrack by @silver_technicolor

Send us Fan MailTrigger Warning: In this podcast, issues of rape, sexual violence and abuse, abortion and other topics of a sensitive nature are discussed.  All Things Marilyn hosts Scott Fortner and Elisa Jordan share their thoughts and feedback on the new Netflix film Blonde, a fictional story based on the Joyce Carol Oates novel of the same name. What did we like? What did we dislike? What’s true and what’s fiction?Tune in to find out all the details. Follow us on Instagram!ATM Podcast: @allthingsmarilynpodcastScott @marilynmonroecollectionElisa @la_woman_toursCredits Artwork by @marilynmexicoSoundtrack by @silver_technicolor

Send us Fan MailWe’re excited to post our IntroCast! Get to know your hosts for All Things Marilyn, Scott Fortner and Elisa Jordan. How did we meet? When did we first discover Marilyn? Why are we launching a podcast? What are some of the experiences we’ve had through Marilyn? Listen and find out!Stay tuned for our next episode: Our take on the new Netflix film Blonde. Follow us on Instagram!ATM Podcast: @allthingsmarilynpodcastScott @marilynmonroecollectionElisa @la_woman_toursCredits Artwork by @marilynmexicoSoundtrack by @silver_technicolor

Send us Fan MailComing Soon! A new podcast about Marilyn Monroe!Join Marilyn Monroe historian and collector Scott Fortner, together with author, historian and founder of LA Woman Tours, Elisa Jordan, for "All Things Marilyn." Topics discussed will focus on any and all things related to Marilyn, including her life, career, celebrity, and legend. Scott and Elisa will be joined by special guests who also share a passion for Marilyn.  Be sure to follow our channel, and stay tuned for our introductory episode.  After that, we'll kick off with our first topic: "Blonde," directed by Andrew Dominik and starring Ana de Armas, currently in theaters and airing on Netflix. You can bet we'll have a lot to say on this film based on the 1999 novel of the same name penned by Joyce Carol Oates.Follow us on Instagram! @allthingsmarilynpodcastWe hope you'll join us for "All Things Marilyn!"  ATM Podcast: @allthingsmarilynpodcastScott @marilynmonroecollectionElisa @la_woman_toursCredits Artwork by @marilynmexicoSoundtrack by @silver_technicolor