Kim Kardashian has once again found herself at the center of controversy, this time for comments about the legendary Marilyn Monroe. In a recent interview reflecting on her much-discussed 2022 Met Gala appearance, Kardashian made a remark that quickly ignited backlash online. She claimed that many people were unaware of Monroe’s legacy before she wore the Hollywood icon’s famous dress to the event.
“I think a lot of people didn’t even know who she was,” Kardashian said, referencing Monroe’s cultural relevance prior to the Met Gala. “That was the most shocking thing to me, and that’s why I was so happy to at least have that opportunity and that Ripley’s gave me the opportunity to share this moment so that it could live on.”
Immediate Public Outrage
Her remarks did not sit well with the public, particularly Monroe’s devoted fans, historians, and pop culture enthusiasts. Almost immediately, critics took to social media to challenge Kardashian’s claim, calling it both inaccurate and self-centered. Many pointed out that Monroe has been an enduring symbol of Hollywood glamour, femininity, and cultural significance for decades, with her image, films, and quotes deeply embedded in American pop culture.
Several commentators argued that suggesting Monroe was unknown before the Met Gala was an insult to her legacy. Monroe, who starred in iconic films like Some Like It Hot, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, and The Seven Year Itch, remains one of the most recognizable figures in entertainment history. Her influence has transcended generations, inspiring artists, musicians, fashion designers, and actresses long before Kardashian donned her gown.
On Twitter, reactions poured in from those who found Kardashian’s statement historically tone-deaf. “Imagine thinking Marilyn Monroe wasn’t a global icon until Kim Kardashian wore her dress. The delusion is real,” one user wrote. Others pointed out that Monroe’s life and career have been extensively documented in books, films, and academic studies, making it highly unlikely that an entire generation was unaware of her.
The Monroe Legacy Needs No Validation
A major point of contention was the idea that Monroe’s relevance needed Kardashian’s endorsement to remain significant. “Marilyn Monroe is a cultural institution. People have been writing about her, studying her, and idolizing her for decades. She didn’t need Kim Kardashian to validate her existence,” another social media user commented.
Some critics also saw Kardashian’s statement as part of a larger pattern in which celebrities attempt to rewrite history to place themselves at its center. The Kardashian family has often framed their own influence on pop culture in ways that imply they introduced trends or ideas that existed long before them.
Additionally, Kardashian’s decision to wear Monroe’s dress to the Met Gala had already sparked controversy before the event. Fashion historians and preservationists criticized her for potentially damaging the delicate, irreplaceable gown. The dress, which Monroe wore to serenade President John F. Kennedy on his birthday in 1962, is considered a historical artifact. Many argued that it should never have been removed from its protective display, let alone altered to fit Kardashian.
Reports emerged following the Met Gala that the dress had suffered damage, including missing crystals and fabric stress. Though Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, the museum that owns the dress, denied any significant harm, many experts remained unconvinced. The controversy reignited discussions about the ethics of wearing historically significant fashion pieces and the responsibilities of institutions that own such artifacts.
The Reality of Monroe’s Enduring Influence
Given this context, Kardashian’s recent comments have only added fuel to the fire. By suggesting that her Met Gala moment was responsible for reviving Monroe’s legacy, she appeared to diminish the lasting impact that the late actress has had on entertainment, fashion, and popular culture.
It’s worth noting that Monroe’s image has never faded from public consciousness. Countless books, films, and documentaries continue to explore her life, struggles, and influence. Every year, Monroe-themed merchandise, fashion collaborations, and tributes flood the market, proving her continued relevance. Her famous quotes circulate widely, and her face remains one of the most recognizable in the world.
Furthermore, Monroe’s influence extends beyond glamour. Her life story—marked by resilience, ambition, and personal struggles—continues to captivate audiences. She was an advocate for breaking free from Hollywood’s restrictive studio system and fought for more control over her career, setting a precedent for future actresses. Her intelligence, wit, and vulnerability made her an enduring figure in discussions about fame, mental health, and the pressures of the entertainment industry.
The Bigger Issue: Celebrity Influence on History
Despite the backlash, Kardashian’s comment highlights how different generations interact with historical figures. While Monroe remains a household name for older audiences, younger generations may not engage with her legacy in the same way. However, to suggest that she was virtually unknown before the Met Gala is an exaggeration that undermines Monroe’s lasting impact.
This moment also underscores the growing influence of social media and celebrity culture in shaping public perceptions of history. With influencers and public figures often acting as primary sources of information for their followers, concerns about historical accuracy being distorted by self-promotion continue to grow. While Kardashian’s influence on fashion and social media is undeniable, it’s essential to distinguish between personal experience and historical fact.
The discussion surrounding Kardashian’s remarks also raises broader questions about cultural legacy and celebrity responsibility. When public figures with massive platforms speak about history, their words carry weight. Misinformation—intentional or not—can shape how younger audiences understand the past. In this case, Monroe’s story is far too significant to be reduced to a footnote in Kardashian’s career.
Ultimately, the controversy serves as a reminder that history does not belong to any one individual, no matter how famous they may be. Monroe’s legacy was built over decades through her work, her impact on Hollywood, and her enduring image in the cultural imagination. It does not require validation from any modern celebrity to remain relevant.
As the backlash continues, it remains to be seen whether Kardashian will clarify or retract her statement. Regardless, one thing is clear—Marilyn Monroe’s influence will continue to endure, with or without a Met Gala dress.
