8 spectacular roles that made Marilyn Monroe an icon

Marilyn Monroe is the original blonde bombshell, and although she left this world far too soon, the actress will live forever in her films - and now, in her on-screen portrayals, such as by Ana de Armas in the next film " Blond." (Although it should be noted that "Blonde" features a fictionalized version of the legendary Monroe.)

More than 50 years have passed since her untimely death at age 36 on August 4, 1962, but her legacy still looms large (and no, we're not talking about those Monroe posters you hung in your freshman year - dormitory year).

Born Norma Jeane Mortenson, Monroe rose to prominence because she could do it all: she charmed and wooed in her comedic roles, she seduced with musical styles, and when she grew weary of live gigs fluffy, she made Hollywood history by creating her own company, Marilyn Monroe Productions. It was thanks to this company that she was able to take on more serious roles. It's hard to pick our favorite Monroe project (she's appeared in 29 movies in just over a decade!), but we've narrowed the list down to her eight most iconic roles. While there are unfortunately no Monroe movies currently available to stream on Netflix, scroll down to see which of the actor's most memorable turns made POPSUGAR's cut.