Madonna, Mariah, and More: Celebrities Who Channel Marilyn Monroe’s Iconic Influence

Marilyn Monroe, born Norma Jeane Mortenson in 1926, remains an enduring symbol of glamour, beauty, and vulnerability in Hollywood. Though her life was tragically short, her legacy continues to influence and inspire generations of artists, performers, and public figures. From her iconic roles in films like Some Like It Hot (1959) to her status as the ultimate “blonde bombshell,” Monroe’s impact has reverberated through pop culture, leaving an indelible mark on many of today’s most well-known celebrities. Here, we explore a diverse group of stars who have openly or implicitly cited Marilyn Monroe as their role model.

1. Madonna: A Lifelong Tribute

Madonna, the Queen of Pop, has long expressed admiration for Monroe, most notably in the 1985 Material Girl music video, where she emulated Monroe’s platinum blonde look and glamorous aesthetic. In a 1987 interview with Rolling Stone, Madonna further spoke to the deep personal connection she felt to Monroe, calling her “the ultimate combination of the pure and the profane.” Madonna’s continued nods to Monroe throughout her career suggest that Monroe has been a significant professional and personal influence.

2. Scarlett Johansson: A Curvy Icon in Her Own Right

Scarlett Johansson, often compared to Monroe for her curvy figure and blonde hair, has expressed her admiration for Monroe in several interviews. In a Telegraph interview, Johansson praised Monroe as an “underrated” actress, highlighting her ability to convey emotional depth. Though Johansson’s similarities to Monroe have often been pointed out by the media, Johansson has acknowledged Monroe’s influence, celebrating her talent and strength as an actress.

3. Michelle Williams: Becoming Monroe

In 2011, Michelle Williams portrayed Marilyn Monroe in My Week With Marilyn, earning widespread acclaim for her performance. Williams, who grew up with photos of Monroe adorning her walls, discussed her admiration for the actress in an interview with Vogue, calling Monroe a “woman-child.” Williams’ connection to Monroe is deeply personal, as she often reflects on how Monroe’s life and struggles resonated with her own experiences in the public eye.

4. Mariah Carey: A Personal Connection

Mariah Carey’s admiration for Monroe goes beyond stylistic inspiration. The pop diva not only channeled Monroe in her music videos, including I Still Believe and Don’t Forget About Us, but also purchased Monroe’s piano for $600,000 in 1999. Carey named her daughter Monroe, further solidifying her deep admiration for the icon. Through her personal and professional gestures, Carey has continually honored Monroe’s memory, viewing her as both an inspiration and a muse.

5. Anna Nicole Smith: Aspiring to Be the “New Marilyn”

The late Anna Nicole Smith famously modeled her persona after Monroe, even earning comparisons to the actress throughout her career. Both women struggled with public scrutiny and faced tragic ends, with Monroe passing away at 36 and Smith at 39. Smith, who graced the covers of Guess Jeans and Playboy, often referenced Monroe as her role model and aimed to embody her legacy, despite the challenges she faced in her personal life.

6. Lindsay Lohan: Recreating Monroe’s Iconic Moments

Lindsay Lohan’s admiration for Monroe was expressed through her various tributes, including a recreation of Monroe’s famous “The Last Sitting” photo shoot for New York Magazine in 2008. Lohan also posed for Playboy, channeling Monroe’s allure in the process. This ongoing emulation reflects Lohan’s fascination with Monroe’s beauty and her complex, tumultuous life, making her a key figure in Lohan’s personal and professional life.

7. Nicki Minaj: A Monroe Obsession

Nicki Minaj has been vocal about her obsession with Marilyn Monroe, even writing the song “Marilyn Monroe” for her Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded album. Minaj has frequently referenced Monroe in her music and public persona, echoing the late icon’s boldness and beauty. Through her music and personal references, Minaj has continued to channel Monroe’s spirit, celebrating her both as an artist and a cultural symbol.

8. Gwen Stefani: Monroe-Inspired Style

Gwen Stefani, known for her unique fashion sense, has often cited Monroe as a stylistic influence. Stefani’s platinum blonde locks and glamorous, retro-inspired outfits frequently draw comparisons to Monroe’s signature look. In a 2011 interview with InStyle, Stefani mentioned that she modeled her trademark look after Monroe, emphasizing her influence on her fashion choices and overall persona.

9. Christina Aguilera: A Tribute to Monroe on Stage

Christina Aguilera has regularly paid tribute to Monroe, especially with her performances. In the 2010 film Burlesque, Aguilera performed a rendition of “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend,” famously associated with Monroe. Aguilera’s red carpet appearances, album covers, and performances often evoke the iconic beauty and poise of Monroe, making her a modern-day homage to the legend.

10. Lady Gaga: A Marilyn Monroe Moment

Lady Gaga, known for her larger-than-life persona, paid tribute to Monroe by dressing as the iconic actress for her 2011 birthday celebration, sharing the look via social media. Gaga has referenced Monroe in interviews, aligning herself with the actress’s complex and contradictory legacy—combining beauty, tragedy, and artistic brilliance into a public image. Through these performances and tributes, Gaga channels Monroe’s spirit, adding her own flair to the timeless homage.

11. Drew Barrymore: A Personal Connection

Drew Barrymore’s admiration for Monroe is reflected in her public persona and personal connections. In a 2010 Blackbook interview, Barrymore included Monroe as part of a list of influences that shaped her life and career. Barrymore has also recreated Monroe’s image, such as when she posed as Monroe for the George magazine cover in 1996. Her admiration for Monroe is rooted in her emotional resonance with the icon’s vulnerability and strength.

12. Rihanna: A Marilyn Monroe Tribute in Music and Fashion

Rihanna has frequently referenced Monroe, both through her fashion choices and her music. In her Pour It Up music video, Rihanna channels Monroe’s glamor and sultriness. Additionally, she sang about Monroe in the song “Love Without Tragedy,” further solidifying her admiration for the late star. Rihanna’s continued references to Monroe in her music and public appearances reflect her enduring influence on the modern icon.

Conclusion: Marilyn Monroe’s Lasting Impact

Marilyn Monroe’s influence continues to resonate with countless modern celebrities, from musicians to actors, each one drawing inspiration from her legacy in their own unique ways. Whether through style, personal resonance, or emulation of her public persona, these celebrities have kept Monroe’s memory alive, demonstrating her lasting relevance as a cultural and artistic figure. Monroe’s timeless appeal shows no sign of waning, as new generations of stars continue to find inspiration in her life, career, and iconic image.