UPDATE: A newly released book unveils the hidden history behind Marilyn Monroe’s iconic subway grate photo, linking it to World War II. The book, titled “Dear Marilyn: The Unseen Letters and Photographs,” reveals how photographer Sam Shaw drew inspiration from his earlier work during the war for one of cinema’s most memorable moments.
As Monroe’s white dress flew upward in front of cameras on September 15, 1954, it marked a turning point in her career and a defining scene in The Seven Year Itch. Shaw’s granddaughter, Melissa Stevens, shared insights about the photo’s origins, stating it began in 1941 when Shaw was a photojournalist capturing women standing over grates in Coney Island. These images, showcasing skirts blown up by the wind, would later inspire the unforgettable movie scene.
Stevens explained that when Shaw read the script for The Seven Year Itch, he immediately recalled his 1941 photographs. “He essentially repurposed that photograph, which is very joyful and fun,” she said. The anticipation surrounding the shoot was so intense that the studio had to arrange for additional police to manage the crowd at Lexington Avenue and 51st Street.
Thousands of fans, primarily men, gathered to witness the moment when Monroe’s dress flew up, revealing glimpses of her white underwear. “The police were completely off guard, more fascinated watching Marilyn,” Shaw wrote. The scene’s filming was controversial for its time, with Stevens noting that it faced scrutiny from moral groups like the Catholic Legion of Decency.
Despite concerns about censorship, Monroe embraced the experience, which ultimately solidified her status as a Hollywood legend. However, the fame came at a cost. Shaw recounted Monroe’s troubled marriage to baseball star Joe DiMaggio, which ended shortly after the iconic shoot. “Three weeks after the shoot, Marilyn told reporters her marriage was over,” he wrote.
The book also reveals a more personal side of Monroe, including letters from Shaw that highlight their strong friendship. As Stevens noted, “There’s a lot of difficulty in Marilyn Monroe’s life, but Sam referred to something called ‘the joy of Marilyn.’”
The story of Monroe’s rise from a troubled background to becoming a symbol of the American dream is featured prominently in the book. “She started with nothing, yet somehow, she rose to the top,” Stevens stated. This narrative continues to resonate with fans today, making Monroe an enduring figure in popular culture.
The book is now available, and Stevens hopes it will shine a light on Monroe’s complex legacy, reminding readers of her strength amid adversity. The unveiling of this hidden history is expected to reignite interest in Monroe’s life and career, making it a must-read for fans and historians alike.
As fans reflect on Monroe’s legacy, the new revelations about her iconic subway grate photo serve as a reminder of the cultural impact she continues to have.
