Why Marilyn Lives On

Cliff Rothman’s article about the lasting legacy of Marilyn Monroe brings up some interesting points (“Marilyn Monroe’s Image Shifts Right Along With the Times,” June 15).

Yes, Monroe did achieve success not only as a sex symbol but as an actress as well. And it’s true that some of her films showed signs of a talented comedienne, which belied her reputation as a one-note blond bombshell. However, one shouldn’t overlook the fact that there was quite a bit of filler in her all-too-brief career, one that was clearly on the wane at the time of her death. In all honesty Monroe remains a popular icon not as a result of her work, but because she died tragically at the height of her beauty.

Chances are all the fanfare over this popular screen goddess would have died down eons ago with the passing of her youth. Sure, she was popular, but to equate the importance of her career with those of the true, durable legends of cinema such as Hepburn, Crawford, Davis, Stanwyck, Gable, Grant or West is pure nonsense.

GEORGE GALLUCCI

Los Angeles

Betty Grable was Marilyn Monroe’s favorite actress and role model. She may have not been as vulnerable, tragic and remembered as Monroe, but she certainly deserves a little more respect than Rothman gave her credit for, because without her example there would never have been a Marilyn Monroe as we the public view her today.

DUSTI TAYLOR

Los Angeles