Agencies

Marilyn Monroe’s ascent to stardom was not just a testament to her talent and allure; it was also shaped by the agencies that represented her throughout her career. From her days as a budding model to her reign as a silver screen icon, a succession of agencies guided her path.

MODELLING

Blue Book Modeling Agency

Under the aegis of Emmeline Snively, the Blue Book Modeling Agency was the crucible where Marilyn Monroe’s modelling career was forged, setting her on a trajectory towards stardom. Emmeline attended Marilyn’s funeral in 1962.

ACTING

National Concert Artists Corporation, West Coast Office

Situated at 9059 Sunset Boulevard, it was this agency that orchestrated Marilyn’s cinematic debut in 1946. A collaboration initiated by Emmeline Snively’s introduction to her friend Helen Ainsworth, with Harry Lipton assisting.

Elsie Cukor-Lipton Agency

Located at 3157 Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood, Marilyn Monroe joined this agency on January 10, 1947. Harry Lipton, who worked there, facilitated her entry, which was formally communicated to 20th Century Fox.

William Morris Agency

A storied establishment at 202 North Canon Drive, Beverly Hills, the William Morris Agency embraced Marilyn in 1949, with Vice-President Johnny Hyde becoming personally and professionally smitten with her. Though she was officially represented by them for four years, after Hyde died in 1950, she explored other opportunities.

  • Key Contracts:
  • Contract inaugurated on December 7, 1948
  • Subsequent agreement dated March 2, 1949

Famous Artists Agency

This agency clinched a two-year contract for Marilyn after Charles Feldman abetted her in securing her second contract with Fox in 1951. At Marilyn’s behest, Feldman was assisted by Hugh French and Jack Gordean. Her departure from Hollywood in 1955 to start Marilyn Monroe Productions with Milton Greene also marked her departure from this agency.

Key Contracts:

  • RCA Contract dated September 1, 1953
  • MCA (Music Corporation of America)
  • MCA picked up the baton from the Famous Artists Agency to renegotiate Monroe’s contract with Fox. In an endeavour to ensure independence for Marilyn Monroe Productions, she and Milton Greene sought the expertise of Lew Wasserman, MCA’s head honcho. MCA’s representation ceased in her life’s twilight when she entrusted her affairs to lawyer Milton Rudin.

Notable Associates:

  • Jay Kanter: of the MCA’s New York office and husband to Judy Balaban, attended Monroe’s wedding to Arthur Miller and accompanied her to various significant events.
  • George Chasin: another MCA representative, played a part in Monroe’s career trajectory.

Each agency that Marilynworked with contributed to her journey in the limelight. They negotiated contracts, shaped her image, and navigated the tumultuous waters of Hollywood fame alongside her. This list is not just a compilation of names and addresses; it is the blueprint of a legacy, tracing the professional footsteps of an enduring legend.