DS, signed “Marilyn Monroe, Norma Jeane Dougherty,” one page, 8.5 x 11, February 6, 1947. Twentieth Century-Fox Film Corporation agreement by which Monroe confirms an amendment to her contract, "That all notices from the producer to the artist…may be given in writing, by addressing the same to the artist in care of Elsie Cukor-Lipton Agency, 9157 Sunset Boulevard." Neatly signed at the conclusion by Monroe, using both her legal and newly minted stage names, and countersigned by 20th Century-Fox manager Lew Schreiber. In fine condition, with a thin strip of staining along the left edge. Encapsulated in a PSA/DNA authentication holder.
This early document was executed just six months after the actress had signed a one-year, $125-a-month contract with Twentieth Century-Fox, and reveals the transformation of Norma Jeane Dougherty into Marilyn Monroe. Shortly after signing with the studio, the starlet met with executive Ben Lyon, who loathed the young actress’s name and suggested ‘Marilyn’—after 1920s performer Marilyn Miller—as a new moniker. For her part, Norma Jeane suggested her mother’s family name, Monroe. Lyon liked the alliteration of Marilyn Monroe, and an immortal legend was born. This scarce document reflects the metamorphosis of a young actress into an icon. Finding ‘Norma Jeane’ and ‘Marilyn’ signing together on a single document is remarkably scarce.
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