One of the most iconic scenes in film history made a superstar of Marilyn Monroe but ultimately led to the end of her marriage to baseball legend Joe DiMaggio.
During their marriage, Monroe rose to superstardom following a now-iconic scene in The Seven Year Itch. Filmed on a New York City subway grate, the moment famously sent her dress billowing upward as Joe DiMaggio watched on set.
Why Did Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio Divorce?
Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio tied the knot on January 14, 1954. The actress and sports legend appeared an unlikely match.
It was reported that DiMaggio wanted a traditional, domestic housewife who would stay out of the spotlight. However, Monroe was dedicated to her acting career.
During their nine-month marriage, her star continued to rise. She filmed two movies during that time period, “River of No Return” and “There’s No Business Like Show Business,” and began filming “The Seven Year Itch” as the fall of that year commenced.
It has been reported that the couple was experiencing problems throughout their marriage. But they came to a head while Monroe was filming the most memorable scene from “The Seven Year Itch.”
According to PBS’ “The American Experience,” the relationship between the couple came to a breaking point when fans and photographers came out for the late-night filming of the film’s most unforgettable moment. When Monroe and actor Richard Sherman stepped onto a sidewalk subway grate, a blast of air shot upward and blew the skirt of her white dress high into the air. DiMaggio was said to be infuriated at onlookers staring at his wife’s body.
The couple reportedly fought about the scene. Per PBS, this exchange led Marilyn to tell actor Brad Dexter that she was “extremely unhappy” in her marriage.
Monroe and DiMaggio divorced in October 1954. However, despite their relationship’s rocky end, his love for his ex-wife endured for decades thereafter.
According to The New York Times, it was DiMaggio who orchestrated Monroe’s funeral when she unexpectedly passed at the age of 36 in August 1962, and for the next 20 years, he sent roses three times a week to her final resting place.
Marilyn Monroe’s Lasting Influence as She Celebrates Her 100th Birthday
On June 1, 2026, Marilyn Monroe would have celebrated her 100th birthday. Her legacy and influence continue to endure, cementing her status as one of Hollywoodâs most iconic figures.
In an Instagram post, her official page celebrated the day with a montage of video clips. Fans shared their own thoughts about the centennial and the influence the actress had upon their lives.
“She will remain an eternal icon. This woman is the icon of your icons, an inspiration through the decades,” wrote one fan.
“Thx for showing us that a soft heart is a beautiful strength. Happy 100th Birthday to the gentlest soul,” penned a second Instagram user.
A third social media user stated, “Happy 100th Birthday to the 1 & only!!!” A fourth fan added, “Happy one hundred years old Marilyn. I wish you were here to celebrate them!”
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