Kim Kardashian has once again ignited controversy, this time over her claim that many people were unaware of Marilyn Monroe until she wore the Hollywood legend’s dress to the 2022 Met Gala.
The reality star’s statement has drawn widespread criticism, with many calling it both inaccurate and self-centered.
In a recent interview reflecting on her highly publicized Met Gala moment, Kardashian suggested that her choice to wear Monroe’s iconic gown helped introduce the actress to a new generation.
“I think a lot of people didn’t even know who she was,” she said, referencing Monroe’s cultural significance before the event. “That was the most shocking thing to me, and that’s why I was so happy to have that opportunity. Ripley’s gave me the chance to share this moment so that it could live on.”
Kardashian also acknowledged the historical importance of the dress, stating, “I respect her and I understand how much this dress means to American history,” according to The Express US.
The gown in question is the shimmering, form-fitting dress Monroe famously wore in 1962 while singing “Happy Birthday” to President John F. Kennedy. It remains one of the most recognizable fashion pieces in history, making Kardashian’s comments even more surprising to critics.
Her remark was met with an immediate backlash, with many arguing that Monroe was already one of the most famous women of all time—long before Kardashian donned her dress. Social media users mocked the claim, emphasizing Monroe’s lasting influence on film, pop culture, and fashion.
“Marilyn Monroe was, is, and always will be a global icon. Kim Kardashian wearing her dress didn’t change that,” one person tweeted. Others pointed out Monroe’s impact on Hollywood, feminism, and celebrity culture, calling Kardashian’s statement dismissive of her legacy.
 |
| Kim Kardashian sporting the dress worn by Marilyn Monroe in 1962. Credit: Dimitrios Kambouris / Getty. |
Historians also weighed in, highlighting Monroe’s decades-long influence beyond her fashion choices.
“Monroe’s films, personal struggles, and contributions to Hollywood have been studied for years,” one expert noted. “She was a household name long before Kim Kardashian was even born.”
Kardashian’s decision to wear Monroe’s dress was already a subject of debate. The gown, custom-made by designer Jean Louis, was originally worn only by Monroe. Critics argued that it was a fragile piece of fashion history that should not have been altered or worn again.
Adding to the controversy, reports later surfaced alleging that the dress had been damaged after the event, with missing crystals and signs of wear. Though Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum, which owns the dress, denied any permanent damage, the claims only fueled criticism of Kardashian’s involvement.
 |
| Marilyn Monroe pictured in the dress worn by Kim Kardashian 60 years later. Credit: Getty. |
Despite Kardashian’s assertion that she helped bring Monroe’s legacy to light, the actress remains a timeless icon. Her impact on Hollywood, beauty standards, and cultural history remains undeniable.
While Kardashian’s Met Gala moment generated headlines, Monroe’s place in history never needed an introduction.
Post a Comment