The Transformation of Screen Names into Legal Identities: A Case Study of Monroe in 1956

In early 1956, Marilyn Monroe made a significant personal and professional decision by legally changing her name to match her iconic screen persona. This change was officially recorded on February 23, 1956, marking a pivotal moment in her career. Monroe's decision to adopt her stage name as her legal name was not merely a formality; it symbolized her triumph over 20th Century-Fox, the studio that had previously controlled her career. The press responded positively to her bold move, with publications like Time praising her as a 'shrewd businesswoman.' This name change was seen as a declaration of independence and a step towards taking control of her own career. It also reflected her desire to solidify her identity as a star, distinct from the roles she played on screen. Monroe's legal name change was a strategic move that would resonate throughout her career, reinforcing her brand and public image as one of Hollywood's most enduring icons. This period also marked the beginning of her critical acclaim and her marriage to playwright Arthur Miller, further establishing her as a multifaceted figure in the entertainment industry. #mooflife #mof #MomentOfLife #MarilynMonroe #NameChange #HollywoodHistory #20thCentury-fox #ArthurMiller