The Marilyn Monroe Century: From Norma Jeane to Icon. A Story in Photographs (Hardback)

An opulent book celebrating Marilyn Monroe with never-before-seen photographs and diary entries

Published to celebrate what would have been Marilyn Monroe’s 100th birthday, this lavish book showcases photographs by the legendary Bernard of Hollywood (Dr. Bruno Bernard) that document her transformation from Norma Jean to Marilyn Monroe. The Marilyn Monroe Century is a landmark tribute to one of the most enduring icons of the 20th century. Lushly produced for fans and collectors alike, this is both a celebration of Monroe’s centennial and a definitive portrait of her life in front of—and behind—the camera.

The Marilyn Monroe Century presents never-before-seen images from the set of Billy Wilder’s The Seven Year Itch (1955), offering an intimate window into the complex relationship between Bernard and Monroe. The book revisits their fractured friendship, their quiet reconciliation at her home as she announced her divorce from Joe DiMaggio, and her shocking act of rebellion in posing for a photograph that continues to enchant—and provoke—decades later.

More than a collection of photos, this is a sweeping visual biography. Through Bernard’s lens—and thoughtfully supplemented by the work of other photographers—the book traces Norma Jean’s transformation into Marilyn Monroe. Personal diary entries from Bernard and commentary from modern Hollywood voices, including Sean Baker, director of the Academy Award–winning Anora, lend new context and insight.