Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio‘s marriage was one of the most iconic and tumultuous love stories of the 20th century. Their whirlwind romance, marked by passion, tension, and undying devotion, captivated the world. Despite their brief marriage, their bond remained strong, creating a legend that continues to fascinate.
Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio: The Ultimate All-American Romance
On January 14, 1954, Hollywood star Marilyn Monroe married baseball legend Joe DiMaggio at San Francisco City Hall. The marriage of these two icons was seen as the ultimate all-American romance, capturing the hearts and imaginations of fans across the nation.
The tall, handsome hero of America’s national pastime and the beautiful, glamorous Hollywood star seemed like a match made in heaven. However, the brief and volatile marriage barely got past the honeymoon before cracks began to show in its brilliant veneer.
A Low-Profile Courtship
Their romance began in 1952 when DiMaggio, intrigued by a photograph of Monroe in a baseball uniform, arranged a dinner date with her. Despite their efforts to keep a low profile, the press was immediately captivated by the pairing of sports and cinema royalty. Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio spent their evenings at home or in a back corner of DiMaggio’s restaurant, trying to avoid the media frenzy.
A Tumultuous Honeymoon
The honeymoon phase quickly turned tumultuous. While on their honeymoon in Japan, Monroe was asked to travel to Korea to perform for American soldiers. She complied, leaving her unhappy new husband behind. This incident foreshadowed the growing tension in their relationship, particularly around DiMaggio’s discomfort with Monroe’s sexy image.
Tensions Rise Over Marilyn’s Sexy Image
One of the most memorable blow-ups occurred in September 1954 on the set of “The Seven Year Itch.” As Monroe filmed the now-famous scene where she stands over a subway grate with her skirt blowing up, a crowd of onlookers and press gathered. DiMaggio, who was on set, became irate, unable to handle the public’s adoration of his wife’s provocative image.
Divorce and Accusations of Mental Cruelty
The marriage lasted only 274 days. Monroe filed for divorce in October 1954, accusing DiMaggio of “mental cruelty.” The public was shocked, but the signs of strain had been evident from the start. Monroe moved on to marry playwright Arthur Miller in 1956, but that marriage also ended in divorce, leaving her emotionally fragile.
Joe DiMaggio’s Continued Devotion After Divorce
Despite their divorce, DiMaggio remained a constant presence in Monroe’s life. When Marilyn Monroe was admitted to a psychiatric clinic in February 1961, it was DiMaggio who secured her release and took her to the Yankees’ Florida spring training camp for rest and relaxation. Rumors of their remarriage swirled, but they maintained their “good friends” status.
Joe’s Support During Marilyn’s Psychiatric Crisis
Monroe’s emotional state continued to deteriorate. Her marriage to Arthur Miller ended in January 1961, and she was admitted to a psychiatric clinic shortly after. DiMaggio’s support during this time was crucial, and he remained a steadfast friend.
DiMaggio’s support was evident during Monroe’s psychiatric crisis. He was there for her when she needed him most, proving that their bond transcended the tumultuous years of their marriage.
When Marilyn Monroe died of a drug overdose on August 5, 1962, it was DiMaggio who arranged her funeral. He sent roses to her grave several times a week for the next two decades, a testament to his enduring love and devotion. DiMaggio outlived Monroe by almost four decades, yet his ex-wife remained a core part of his life and legacy.
