Marilyn Monroe was an American actress and model who gained widespread fame in the 1950s and early 1960s. She was recognized for her roles as a comic "blonde bombshell" and became an international symbol of beauty and glamour during her career. Monroe starred in numerous successful films and was one of the highest-paid actresses of her time. By the time of her death in 1962, her movies had earned $200 million, reflecting her significant impact on the film industry and popular culture.