Marilyn Monroe
The autopsy report, death certificate, and records of Hollywood legend Marilyn Monroe — 1926–1962.
The Star
Norma Jeane Mortenson, otherwise known as Marilyn Monroe, was a talented actress, singer, and model who dazzled the screen, becoming a glamorous American sex symbol. Marilyn initially did not have any acting experience; however, she became an instant Hollywood star and legend, making 29 movies spanning her 16-year career.
Marilyn had an outstanding on-screen career from 1947 until her death in 1962. She starred in notable works including Niagara, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, River of No Return, The Seven Year Itch, Some Like It Hot, and The Misfits, as well as Monkey Business, How To Marry A Millionaire, There's No Business Like Show Business, Bus Stop, Something's Got to Give, and The Prince and the Showgirl. Some Like It Hot became a resounding success, nominated for six Academy Awards; Monroe was acclaimed for her performance and won the Golden Globe Award.
In April 1952 she was on the cover of Life magazine, and in December 1953 she appeared in the first issue of Playboy magazine as the first Playmate of the Month. On May 19, 1962, she attended President John F. Kennedy's early birthday celebration and performed “Happy Birthday, Mr. President.”
The Final Years
Towards the final years of her career, Marilyn suffered from health problems including insomnia, which led to the use of several potentially addicting medications. She sought the help of psychiatrist Dr. Ralph Greenson, who stated that Marilyn saw various doctors who prescribed her medications for insomnia — and that she was able to refrain from using them for extended periods without suffering withdrawal.
The Death
On August 5, 1962, Marilyn was found dead in her bed early in the morning. Her psychiatrist, Dr. Ralph Greenson, called 911 to report Monroe dead at her home. Her toxicology report found eight milligram percent of chloral hydrate and 4.5 milligram percent of Nembutal in her system. Dr. Thomas Noguchi of the Los Angeles County Coroner's office recorded the cause of death as “acute barbiturate poisoning,” resulting from “probable suicide.” Conspiracy theories have long surrounded her death, including claims involving the mafia or CIA.
The official cause of death on the autopsy report is listed as “Acute Barbiturate Poisoning due to ingestion of overdose.” Marilyn Monroe is interred at Westwood Memorial Park, in the Corridor of Memories, Plot 24, in Los Angeles, California.