Marilyn Monroe’s Sensitive Reactions on Set: The Truth Behind Her Emotional Moments During Gentlemen Prefer Blondes!
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953), one of Marilyn Monroe’s most iconic films, continues to captivate audiences with its vibrant performances and memorable songs, especially the legendary “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend.” However, the production of this classic was not without its unique and often difficult moments, many of which revealed the pressures Monroe faced as one of Hollywood’s most recognizable stars. Beyond the glamorous film set lies a story of vulnerability, emotional turmoil, and the challenges of navigating Hollywood’s studio system.
The Emotional Fallout from Tommy Noonan’s Comment
One of the most striking incidents during the making of Gentlemen Prefer Blondes occurred when Monroe’s co-star Tommy Noonan made a comment about kissing her on screen. He reportedly described kissing Monroe as “like being swallowed alive,” a remark that deeply upset her. Monroe, known for her sensitivity, became visibly distressed and retreated to her makeup room, locking herself in and crying. It took several colleagues time and patience to calm her down and encourage her to return to filming. This incident highlights the emotional toll of Monroe’s public image as a sex symbol and the weight of objectification she often experienced. Noonan’s offhand remark, while likely intended as a joke, had a profound effect on her, showing how vulnerable she felt in a professional setting.
Sensitivity to Rudeness on Set
Monroe’s sensitivity to the behavior of those around her was another challenge she faced while filming Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. She was particularly affected by rudeness from men on set, often retreating to her trailer to escape the negativity. Only her co-star Jane Russell could consistently persuade Monroe to return to work, offering a crucial support system amidst the pressures of the production. This recurring retreat speaks to the broader challenges Monroe faced in a male-dominated industry, where she was often treated as little more than a pretty face, despite her evident talent and professionalism. Russell’s empathy and understanding highlight the importance of a supportive work environment, especially for someone like Monroe, who struggled with both internal and external pressures.
The Stark Pay Discrepancy Between Monroe and Jane Russell
Another significant aspect of the production that added to Monroe’s frustrations was the glaring pay disparity between her and co-star Jane Russell. Monroe earned $18,000 for her role in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, while Russell made $200,000, a difference of 11 times more. Monroe later revealed in her final interview that she felt this financial inequality was disrespectful, and it highlighted the pervasive economic disparity that women in Hollywood, especially those who were viewed as sex symbols, often faced. While the film was a box office success and Monroe’s star power was undeniable, the pay gap speaks to the gender politics and studio dynamics that were deeply ingrained in the industry at the time. Monroe’s mention of this disparity points to how it may have contributed to her overall dissatisfaction and emotional struggles on set.
Re-Filming of “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend”
Perhaps one of the more unusual incidents from the set of Gentlemen Prefer Blondes occurred after the movie’s production had wrapped. The film’s iconic “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend” sequence was re-filmed for a CinemaScope demonstration in March 1953, months after the initial filming concluded. This production decision, although related to technological needs rather than narrative, meant that Monroe had to return to set and work additional hours. The re-filming wasn’t required for artistic reasons, but rather for the demonstration of the new widescreen technology. This additional filming and the added pressure on Monroe may have further increased her workload, making the process more exhausting for her. The sequence was later included in a 1963 documentary tribute to Monroe, underscoring its lasting importance in her legacy.
Conclusion: Pressures Behind the Glamour
The production of Gentlemen Prefer Blondes encapsulates the complexities of Marilyn Monroe’s experience in Hollywood—an environment where fame, objectification, and personal struggles intertwined. Monroe’s emotional reactions, her sensitivity to rudeness, the stark pay inequality, and the unusual re-filming of key scenes all paint a picture of the pressures she faced while trying to maintain a delicate balance between her public persona and private vulnerabilities. These incidents, though perhaps not immediately apparent in the final product, reveal the human side of one of Hollywood’s greatest stars, showcasing the emotional and mental toll that fame can take, particularly when combined with the relentless demands of the studio system.
Monroe’s experiences on the set of Gentlemen Prefer Blondes serve as a reminder that behind the glamour, even the brightest stars are not immune to the pressures of their careers and personal lives. These moments reflect the darker side of fame, offering a glimpse into the complexities of Monroe’s life and the challenges she faced throughout her career.
