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Archives On The Air 183: True Spirit And Soul: Marilyn Monroe—Jean Howard Papers

Photographer Jean Howard captured Hollywood glamor of the 1940s and 50s. Marriage to super-agent Charles Feldman provided her with access to celebrities like Marilyn Monroe.


In 1954 Marilyn was invited to Jean's studio. She arrived in a form-fitting dress and began the usual seductive poses expected of her.

But Jean had other ideas. After adding a modest black jacket to Marilyn's outfit, Jean recalled that the resulting photographs revealed the true spirit and soul of that beautiful, gifted girl.

Later at a party Marilyn said something that surprised the photographer: "Jean took the best pictures of me I've ever had."

You can see Jean Howard's photographs at UW's American Heritage Center.