Charles Casillo Knihy

This groundbreaking biography delves into the hidden complexities of Marilyn Monroe, revealing the woman behind her captivating beauty and tumultuous love life. Drawing on extensive research and new interviews, it uncovers the truth about Monroe, portraying her as a multifaceted individual—bewitching, maddening, brilliant, and flawed. The narrative situates her life within the context of her times, highlighting the challenges she faced before feminism and the lack of effective treatment for bipolar disorder, a struggle she endured. Beginning with her abusive childhood, the biography illustrates how her fractured psyche fueled her ambition, transforming each celebrated romance and tragedy into steps toward her enduring legacy. It thoroughly examines the last two years of her life, including her relationships with John F. Kennedy and Robert Kennedy, and the enigma surrounding her final day. Among the revelations are Elizabeth Taylor's secret attempts to assist Monroe during a dark period, the rediscovery of a semi-nude love scene with Clark Gable, and a poignant encounter with Warren Beatty shortly before her death, where she shared insights into her despair. The account meticulously details the events leading to her demise, highlighting how miscommunications and misjudgments played a role in her tragic end.

This story of the decades-long relationship between Elizabeth Taylor and Montgomery Clift chronicles her devotion to the troubled star through a near fatal car crash and the descent into alcoholism and addiction that effectively ended his Hollywood career

Violet-eyed siren Elizabeth Taylor and classically handsome Montgomery Clift formed the most stunning screen couple of their era. Their friendship spanned over two decades, during which they starred in defining films like Cat on a Hot Tin Roof and Cleopatra. Yet, the depth of their relationship—one a dazzling star, the other a talented but troubled figure—has remained largely unexplored until now. When Elizabeth was cast opposite Montgomery in A Place in the Sun, he was already a celebrated idol known for his sensitivity. At just seventeen, Elizabeth was recognized more for her beauty than her acting skills, often treated as a glamorous prop. Monty, however, took her seriously, inspiring her to embrace her talent. He affectionately called her “Bessie Mae,” reflecting her earthy side. The press speculated about a wedding, believing their bond was deeper than friendship, but Monty’s complex sexuality—attraction to men alongside his relationships with women—complicated matters. After Monty’s devastating car crash, Elizabeth demonstrated her unwavering devotion by crawling into the wreckage to save him. His accident left him in constant pain, leading to struggles with addiction. Elizabeth used her influence to keep him working, while he remained a constant presence through her tumultuous life. Their bond endured until his death in 1966, just before they were set to work together again. Monty’s impact on Elizabeth continued, ev