Frederick's of Hollywood Blog

Today we pay homage to a friend of Marilyn Monroe and one of the leading sex symbols of the 1940′s and ‘50s: Jane Russell. Born on today’s date in 1921, she is one the most recognizable figures (quite literally) of the twentieth century. She is probably best known for her role in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, opposite Marilyn Monroe–a film that garnered both of them critical acclaim. Jane, for her down-to-earth dry wit and Marilyn for her comedic timing.

Photos via imdb.com

During filming, the two stars became lifelong friends, with Russell describing Monroe as “very shy and very sweet and far more intelligent than people gave her credit for”. Russell even escorted Marilyn (who suffered from stage fright) to the set. Marilyn and Jane also put their signatures, hand and foot prints in cement in front of Grauman’s Chinese Theater together. Of the event Marilyn quipped that,”Jane was best known for her large front-side and that she was known for her wiggly walk, so Jane could lean over, and she could sit in it”.

Photo via imdb.com.

Together they serve as an inspiration–that two very similar and beautiful actresses can become friends as opposed to tabloid rivals stands as a testament to both their characters. Can you think of any two modern actresses that with the same relationship? Share in the comments below!

Inspiring musicians, actors, artists, and most everyone else for a half century after her death, join us as we celebrate Marilyn Monroe for the month of June!

Born Norma Jean Baker at the Los Angeles County Hospital on June 1st, 1926, Marilyn faced a tumultuous childhood, which included becoming a ward of the state and being placed into foster care. One of the most legendary sex symbols and recognizable actresses of all time, she actually began her career as a model, which led to a film contract in 1946. Her early film appearances were minor, but her performances (and appearance) in both The Asphalt Jungle and All About Eve drew attention to her.

Photos via thegloss and weheartit.

It was shortly after these films that her “dumb blonde persona” was developed. Audiences loved her breathy bombshell approach, however she began to find that she was limited by typecasting, and studied at the Actors Studio to broaden her range. The director of  Bus Stop, the first film for which Marilyn received critical acclaim, stated “I found Marilyn to be one of the great talents of all time… she struck me as being a much brighter person than I had ever imagined, and I think that was the first time I learned that intelligence and, yes, brilliance have nothing to do with education.”

Photos via zumaworld and quizz.

Hollywood is celebrating what would have been the star’s 86th birthday with a weeklong film festival at Grauman’s Chinese Theater. Grauman’s is also holding a Look-A-Like Contest, with the first 200 impersonators receiving free admission. 10% of the festival passes purchased will go to Hollygrove, the orphanage where Marilyn spent her childhood. What’s your favorite Marilyn Monroe movie?