How Marilyn Monroe’s “Some Like It Hot” Became Her Most Iconic Role Despite 83 Takes

In 1959, Marilyn Monroe delivered what many consider the defining performance of her career in Billy Wilder’s Some Like It Hot. Playing Sugar Kane, the vulnerable and charming singer of an all-female band, Monroe combined comedic timing, irresistible charisma, and heartfelt emotion to steal the show—and cement the film as one of the greatest comedies in cinematic history.

Set during the Prohibition era, Some Like It Hot tells the story of musicians Joe (Tony Curtis) and Jerry (Jack Lemmon), who disguise themselves as women to escape mobsters and end up joining Monroe’s band. The film’s bold gender-bending premise, razor-sharp wit, and iconic lines challenged Hollywood conventions, but it was Monroe’s portrayal of Sugar Kane that truly brought the story to life. Her character is both alluring and achingly relatable: a woman yearning for love yet repeatedly drawn to the wrong men.

However, Monroe’s effortless charm on screen belied a difficult production process. Reports reveal that she struggled with health problems and anxiety, often requiring dozens—sometimes up to 83—of takes to perfect a single scene. Despite these challenges, Monroe’s final performance radiates sincerity and comedic brilliance, striking a delicate balance between sensuality and vulnerability that critics and audiences alike celebrated.

The film was a major success, grossing over $2.8 million at the box office and earning six Academy Award nominations, including Best Director and Best Actor. It won the Oscar for Best Costume Design and later earned a place in the National Film Registry for its lasting cultural impact.

Monroe’s portrayal of Sugar Kane earned her the Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Comedy or Musical, affirming her exceptional talent and ability to captivate audiences. Additional accolades, such as the Laurel Award for Top Female Comedy Performance, further recognized her achievement.

More than six decades later, Some Like It Hot remains a beloved classic, praised by critics and cherished by fans worldwide. For Marilyn Monroe, the film was far more than a role—it was a testament to her resilience, artistry, and unique star power. Beneath the glamour of Hollywood’s most enduring icon lies an actress whose work continues to inspire generations.