In bed with Marilyn Monroe – the true story of a legendary nude photoshoot

In November 1961, a 27-year-old photographer named Douglas Kirkland captured a series of unforgettable and sensual portraits of the iconic Marilyn Monroe. The shoot, which took place in Hollywood, was commissioned for the 25th anniversary issue of Look magazine. Marilyn, who was 35 at the time and just nine months away from her untimely death, arrived late and requested a private, relaxed environment for the photoshoot. This included Dom Pérignon champagne, Frank Sinatra records, and a bed draped in white silk sheets.

Douglas Kirkland recounted that he met Marilyn on three separate occasions throughout the shoot. The first encounter was a more unassuming version of Monroe, who appeared like the "girl next door." The second encounter was the most passionate, as Marilyn appeared as an "exploding star," radiating a captivating energy. The third persona emerged when Kirkland met a more melancholic and annoyed Marilyn to review the photographs from the shoot.

During the photoshoot, Marilyn removed her clothes and posed naked on a transparent white silk sheet. Kirkland documented her movements, capturing her in a state of pure, unfiltered bliss. He explained that their connection was genuine and stimulating, leading to the creation of the iconic images that would later be featured in the book Marilyn, A Magical Dance. The shoot remains a testament to the power of genuine connection and the art of photography.