Marilyn Monroe’s Final Film: The Untold Story Behind Her Dismissal from Something’s Got to Give
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
Marilyn Monroe’s legacy as one of Hollywood’s most transcendent stars is undeniable—not only for her captivating performances but also for the enigmatic life that surrounded her. Tragically passing away at just 36, Monroe’s final years were marked by professional turmoil and personal struggles that culminated in her being fired from what would have been her last film, Something’s Got to Give.
In 1962, less than four months before her untimely death, Monroe began work on Something’s Got to Give, a remake of the 1940s classic My Favorite Wife. Directed by George Cukor and co-starring Dean Martin and Cyd Charisse, the film held great promise. The production gained early attention when press members were invited to witness Monroe shooting a now-famous nude swimming pool scene—photos that later appeared in Life magazine, an unprecedented move at the time.
Despite the buzz, Something’s Got to Give was plagued by problems from the outset. The financially strained 20th Century Fox, still reeling from the costly Cleopatra, was less tolerant of delays and difficulties. Monroe’s personal challenges compounded the issues: a history of forgotten lines, erratic work habits, and missed shooting schedules frustrated the cast and crew. Reports of her taking time off to perform at President John F. Kennedy’s birthday and a raucous celebration of her 36th birthday on set further strained relations.
Director George Cukor reached his breaking point and advocated strongly for Monroe’s dismissal. On June 4, 1962, she was officially fired. In a heartfelt telegram to Cukor, Monroe expressed her sorrow and disappointment: “Dear George, please forgive me. It was not my doing. I had so looked forward to working with you.”
Monroe’s death later that year cast a shadow over the unfinished film, which was never completed. Most of the existing footage remains locked away in a Fox vault, a poignant reminder of a project—and a career—cut tragically short.
Something’s Got to Give now stands as a bittersweet coda to Marilyn Monroe’s enduring legend, embodying both the brilliance and the heartbreak of one of Hollywood’s most iconic and enigmatic figures.
