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Lot #639
Marilyn Monroe

Monroe directs payments from 20th Century-Fox before her big break

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Estimate: $4000+
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Description

Monroe directs payments from 20th Century-Fox before her big break

DS, one page, 8.5 x 11, April 5, 1950. William Morris Agency document submitted to the cashier at 20th Century-Fox, in part: "You are hereby notified that I/we have authorized the William Morris Agency, Inc., to accept delivery of any and all checks and/or sums of money which may from time to time be or become payable to me from you; and I hereby authorize you to deliver all such checks and/or sums of money to said William Morris Agency, Inc." Neatly signed at the conclusion in fountain pen by Monroe. In fine condition, with two file holes to the top, and some light creasing in the lower blank area.

Though Monroe had garnered a contract at Columbia Pictures in 1948, it was not renewed, and she had fallen back on a few bit parts and modeling gigs. In 1950, however, Monroe landed small roles in two musicals and two dramas: Love Happy, A Ticket to Tomahawk, Right Cross, and The Fireball. Co-stars of these productions included Mickey Rooney, the Marx Brothers, June Allyson, and Anne Baxter. Also in 1950, Monroe secured larger—though still small—roles in two critically acclaimed films: as Angela Phinlay in John Huston's The Asphalt Jungle, and as Miss Casswell in Joseph Mankiewicz's drama All About Eve.

Monroe's breakthrough was in part orchestrated by Johnny Hyde, the co-founder and vice president of the William Morris Agency. Hyde took an interest in the starlet, and secured her a seven-year-long contract at 20th Century Fox in December 1950. Among Hyde's recommendations to Monroe were cosmetic surgery and superficial alterations to her appearance. These changes to Monroe's chin, nose, hairline, and hair created the flamboyant 'blonde bombshell' look that we know today.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Fine Autographs and Artifacts
  • Dates: #580 - Ended April 08, 2020





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