Ana de Armas’s portrayal of Marilyn Monroe in the 2022 film Blonde generated significant buzz. However, before stepping into the role of one of Hollywood’s most iconic figures, de Armas paid an emotional tribute to Monroe. The actress visited Monroe’s grave and left behind a letter—an intimate act that connected her to the legendary actress she was about to portray on screen. This gesture reflects de Armas’s deep respect for Monroe’s legacy and her determination to capture the spirit of the beloved star in her performance.
Ana de Armas: A Tribute to Marilyn Monroe
Ana de Armas’s visit to Marilyn Monroe’s final resting place was more than just an act of respect. It was a deeply personal moment that tied de Armas to the legacy of the woman she would portray in Blonde. Monroe, whose tragic life and brilliant career fascinated millions, left a lasting impression on the entertainment world, and de Armas was determined to honor that legacy.
The letter she left was a symbolic gesture, an acknowledgment of the emotional weight of portraying such a legendary figure. In an interview, de Armas shared that Monroe’s life, filled with contradictions and pain, was an intricate challenge to understand and portray authentically. The actress expressed how much she admired Monroe’s strength and vulnerability, traits that she herself sought to capture while bringing the story to life.
The Emotional Connection
For de Armas, playing Marilyn Monroe was not just a career-defining role—it was a chance to understand and empathize with a woman whose life was shaped by fame, heartbreak, and constant public scrutiny. Monroe’s struggles with mental health, relationships, and a complicated career trajectory mirrored de Armas’s own journey to understanding the human behind the Hollywood legend. The letter she left at the grave wasn’t just for Monroe—it was for the real woman behind the image, a woman whose voice and spirit had been obscured by years of speculation and myth.
In her letter, de Armas wrote words that reflected both admiration and empathy for Monroe. These sentiments were not only about the role she was about to play, but also about acknowledging the pain and triumphs Monroe experienced throughout her life. Monroe’s death in 1962, at the young age of 36, left a void in Hollywood, and de Armas’s act of writing a letter was an emotional acknowledgment of that loss. It was a reminder of the humanity that often gets overshadowed by the glamorous aura of stardom.
The Role of Marilyn Monroe in Blonde
Blonde, directed by Andrew Dominik, was a biographical film based on Joyce Carol Oates’s novel of the same name. The film focused on the darker and more tragic aspects of Monroe’s life, depicting her experiences with fame, her emotional struggles, and the constant pressure she faced from both the public and the entertainment industry.
Ana de Armas’s casting as Monroe was a major talking point before the film’s release. The actress went through an intense transformation to embody the iconic star, from physical appearance to mastering Monroe’s distinct voice and mannerisms. De Armas’s dedication to the role was clear from the start, as she immersed herself in the life and legacy of the actress. The letter to Monroe was just one example of her commitment to honoring the actress she was about to portray.
Monroe’s Legacy and Influence on Modern Culture
Marilyn Monroe’s impact on pop culture is undeniable. As one of the most photographed women in history, she remains an enduring symbol of beauty and vulnerability. Monroe’s image has been immortalized in countless films, books, and artworks, cementing her status as an icon. However, her life was also marked by hardships that were often overlooked by the public. The tragedy of Monroe’s life and untimely death continues to intrigue and inspire both fans and artists alike.
Ana de Armas, through her performance, sought to bring attention to the more personal and often painful aspects of Monroe’s life. While Monroe’s image may have been crafted by the media, the film Blonde aimed to show the complexities and contradictions of the real woman behind the persona. Through de Armas’s portrayal, viewers are reminded of the human being who struggled with love, identity, and self-worth amidst the harsh glare of fame.
The Process of Preparing for the Role
De Armas’s preparation for playing Monroe was extensive. The actress dedicated months to studying Monroe’s life, not only watching her films but also reading biographies and personal accounts of Monroe’s life. One of the most important aspects of her preparation was learning how to mirror Monroe’s voice and mannerisms. It wasn’t just about mimicking an iconic image but rather understanding the emotions and the depth of the character.
Ana de Armas worked closely with vocal coaches and movement experts to capture Monroe’s famous voice and her distinct way of moving. This attention to detail was part of de Armas’s larger mission to portray Monroe not as a legend but as a real woman with vulnerabilities, aspirations, and fears. Her deep emotional connection to Monroe made her portrayal all the more compelling and authentic.
The Public’s Reaction and Critical Response
When Blonde was released, Ana de Armas’s performance was met with mixed reviews. While some praised her for capturing the essence of Monroe, others felt that the film focused too heavily on the darker elements of Monroe’s life. However, de Armas’s dedication to the role was universally acknowledged. Critics and fans alike recognized the effort she put into creating a portrayal that was both respectful and nuanced.
The emotional weight of the film and de Armas’s portrayal of Monroe resonated with many viewers who had long been fascinated by Monroe’s tragic story. Through her performance, de Armas helped bring a new perspective on Monroe’s life, highlighting the emotional and psychological struggles that were often overlooked in previous portrayals.
The Importance of Preserving Monroe’s Legacy
Ana de Armas’s tribute to Marilyn Monroe—through the letter and her heartfelt performance in Blonde—reminds us of the importance of preserving the legacies of icons like Monroe. While Monroe’s life may have been filled with personal struggles and heartbreak, her impact on culture, film, and public consciousness is undeniable. De Armas’s act of leaving a letter at Monroe’s grave symbolizes the enduring connection between actors and the legends they portray, as well as the respect and admiration that such roles require.
As time goes on, Monroe’s story continues to inspire new generations of artists, filmmakers, and fans. The letter left by Ana de Armas before portraying Monroe is a testament to the actress’s deep respect for the woman who helped define Hollywood and whose legacy continues to shape the entertainment industry.
[Updated: 04/20/2025]
