Ebook excerpt: “Marilyn: The Lost Photographs, The Last Interview”

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In July 1962, Marilyn Monroe gave what can be her last interview, with Life Magazine author Richard Meryman, and her final formal photograph shoot, for photographer Allan Grant. She died shortly after the article was printed, and nearly all of Grant’s pictures, and the recordings made by Meryman, have remained unseen and unheard ever since.

Now, Jason Greene and Chris Flannery have compiled Meryman’s full interview transcript and Grant’s pictures for “Marilyn: The Lost Photographs, The Last Interview” (Weldon Owen), through which the star speaks candidly about her life, Hollywood, movie star, and the challenges of the studio system.

Read an excerpt under, and do not miss Tracy Smith’s report on the centenary of Marilyn Monroe on “CBS Sunday Morning” May 31!

“Marilyn: The Lost Photographs, The Last Interview”

On fame

I DON’T THINK OF MYSELF AS FAMOUS. What counts is what you do. It’s additionally what you determine your self with—like with the individuals. Normally I simply put on no matter, however when I’m in a crowd and I’m going to be acknowledged, I’m extra cautious the way in which I gown. I imply, extra fastidiously dressed for the event. There are sure occasions I really feel that the general public ought to see me at my finest. I’m not going to go operating round like a canine. I really feel I would not need to let anyone down and I would not need to disappoint them. Fantasy is essential for individuals, and so I believe in that method.

Sometimes carrying a shawl and a polo coat and no make-up and with a sure perspective of strolling, I am going purchasing or simply take a look at individuals dwelling. But then, , there will probably be a number of youngsters who’re form of sharp, they usually’ll say, “Hey, just a minute. You know who I think that is?” And they’re going to begin tailing me. And I do not thoughts. I notice some individuals need to see when you’re actual. The youngsters, the little youngsters, their faces gentle up. They say, “Gee,” they usually cannot wait to inform their mates. Old individuals come up and say, “Wait till I tell my wife.” You’ve modified their complete day. In the morning, the garbagemen that go by Fifty-Seventh Street after I come out the door say, “Marilyn, hi! How do you feel this morning?” To me, it is an honor, and I like them for it. The workingmen, I’ll go by they usually’ll whistle. At first they whistle as a result of they suppose, oh, it is a lady. She’s bought blonde hair and he or she’s not out of practice, after which they are saying, “Gosh, it’s Marilyn Monroe!” And that has its . . . , these are occasions it is good. People realizing who you’re and all of that, and feeling that you’ve got meant one thing to them.”

Excerpted from “Marilyn: The Lost Photographs, The Last Interview,” by Allan Grant and Richard Meryman. Conceived and developed by Jason Greene and Chris Flannery at marilynslostphotos.com. © 2026. Photographs by Allan Grant © 1962 MM LLC. Reprinted by permission of Weldon Owen/Insight Editions. All rights reserved.

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“Marilyn: The Lost Photographs, The Last Interview”

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