Legacy Podcast Episode Summary: Marilyn Monroe | Who Killed the Movie Star? | Episode 4

Introduction

In Episode 4 of Legacy, hosted by Afua Hirsch and Peter Frankopan from Wondery, the focus shifts to the enigmatic life and untimely death of Marilyn Monroe. Titled "Who Killed the Movie Star?," this episode delves deep into the circumstances surrounding her death, the ensuing controversies, and the enduring legacy that continues to captivate the world more than six decades later.

1. The Night of Marilyn Monroe’s Death

The episode opens by setting the scene on August 4, 1962, at Marilyn Monroe's Los Angeles home. Peter Frankopan narrates:

"It's 1962. The 36-year-old Marilyn Monroe is one of the greatest stars Hollywood has ever seen... but she has her demons."

Monroe, beloved globally, grappled with stage fright, emotional insecurity, and a growing dependence on drugs and alcohol. Her third marriage had just ended, yet her career appeared to be ascending, with promising projects like "Something's Got to Give" on the horizon.

Key Moment:

[00:46] Afwahash highlights the bright trajectory of Monroe's career, juxtaposed with her personal struggles.

2. The Circumstances of Her Death

At 3:30 AM, Monroe's housekeeper, Eunice Murray, discovers Monroe unresponsive in her bedroom. Murray's attempts to awaken her lead to the discovery of multiple empty pill bottles, suggesting an overdose.

Official Cause of Death: Peter Frankopan summarizes the official findings:

"[...] an overdose of barbiturates. The coroner, Thomas T. Noguchi, circles suicide on the report, adding 'probable.'"

However, Afwahash points out discrepancies:

"Probable suicide is not a recognized mode of death. It's either suicide or undetermined."

3. Controversies and Conspiracy Theories

Despite the official verdict pointing towards suicide, Monroe's death has been a fertile ground for conspiracy theories:

• Lack of a Suicide Note: Monroe left no note, and friends like Pat Newcombe assert she had plans and showed no signs of intending to end her life.

• Suspicious Autopsy Findings: Debate exists over whether the overdose was administered orally or via an enema, with some suggesting foul play.

• Missing Phone Records: Allegations that Monroe’s last phone calls, possibly to JFK, were destroyed or tampered with by the FBI to cover up connections to the Kennedys.

Notable Quote:

[07:46] Afwahash advises caution: "If you've heard or read someone saying they categorically can prove one theory over another, they're probably wrong because it's so unclear."

4. Examination of Specific Conspiracy Theories

A. The Kennedy Connection

Monroe had connections with the Kennedy family, particularly Bobby Kennedy. Some theories suggest that political motivations tied to the Kennedys led to her death.

B. Role of Ralph Greenson, Her Psychiatrist

Greenson's relationship with Monroe was seen as unorthodox, sparking theories that he might have had a hand in her demise, either through malpractice or malicious intent.

C. Other Theories

• CIA Involvement: Speculations about Monroe being a target for political reasons.
• Mafia Connections: Ideas that the mob influenced her death to silence her.
• J. Edgar Hoover’s Influence: The powerful FBI director potentially orchestrating events behind the scenes.

Key Moment:

[20:52] Peter mentions: "Others have said that, well, maybe it was a hit by J. Edgar Hoover..."

5. Reliability of Witness Testimonies

The credibility of Eunice Murray has been questioned over time. Initially, she was the primary witness to Monroe's state, but decades later, she altered her account, claiming that Bobby Kennedy had visited Monroe on the night of her death—a detail absent from earlier testimonies.

Critical Insight:

Murray's inconsistencies (e.g., noticing light through thick carpets) fuel skepticism about the official narrative.

6. Marilyn Monroe’s Enduring Legacy

Marilyn Monroe's legacy transcends her tragic death, continuing to influence culture, fashion, and discussions about female empowerment.

A. Cultural Impact

Monroe remains a symbol of Hollywood's golden age, with her image perpetuated through art and media. The Andy Warhol portrait sold for $195 million in 2022, underlining her lasting influence.

B. Economic Value

Monroe's estate has remained lucrative, with licensing deals generating millions annually from products like lingerie and beauty accessories featuring her likeness.

C. Female Empowerment and Criticism

Monroe's assertiveness in negotiating her contracts and demanding fair compensation marked her as a trailblazer for women in Hollywood. However, some critics argue that her emphasis on sexuality reinforced patriarchal norms.

Notable Quote:

[29:04] Afwahash counters critiques: "If you are trapped in a system that requires you to sell your image and your sexuality, and then you are attacked for it... that's totally offensive."

7. Final Reflections and Personal Insights

As the episode concludes, Afwahash and Frankopan reflect on Marilyn Monroe's complex persona—smart, misjudged, and troubled—highlighting the dichotomy between her public image and private struggles.

Key Takeaways:

• Monroe's death remains shrouded in mystery, with no definitive evidence supporting any single theory beyond the official ruling of probable suicide.

• Her legacy is a blend of cultural iconography and the ongoing debate about her role in Hollywood and society.

• The enduring fascination with Monroe underscores the powerful impact of celebrity and the perpetuation of her image long after her passing.

Closing Quote:

[30:44] Afwahash shares a personal reflection inspired by Monroe's words: "Please don't make me a joke. End the interview with what I believe. And that is the kind of the quest and the question to be taken seriously and to be listened to."

Conclusion

Episode 4 of Legacy offers an exhaustive exploration of Marilyn Monroe's life, death, and the myriad theories that have emerged in the decades since. Through meticulous research and engaging dialogue, Afua Hirsch and Peter Frankopan provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of why Monroe remains an enigmatic figure whose legacy continues to spark intrigue and debate.

Listen to the full episode on the Wondery App or your preferred podcast platform to uncover more about Marilyn Monroe’s enduring legacy and the unanswered questions surrounding her death.