Intelligence vs. Icon

Part of becoming a celebrity is creating a name, brand, and public persona for yourself. One of the biggest problems in Hollywood is that celebrities are not portrayed as their true selves. Celebrities are typically guided to act, look, and react particular ways to enhance their public image and maintain a strong fanbase. For example Marilyn Monroe was depicted as a dumb blonde and sex icon throughout her life. Fans saw her as a symbol of beauty, sexuality, and lack of intellect. However, is this who the true Marilyn Monroe was? An article written by Neil Norman, Not Just a Dumb Blonde describes Marilyn Monroe's intellectual side that was rarely demonstrated in the media.

When you think of Marilyn Monroe, the first things that probably come to mind are her famous provocative black and white photos wearing a white dress blowing up in the air. Although she is typically remembered for looks and sexualized photos, Norman highlights her other impressive characteristics including a willingness to improve her intelligence and search for knowledge. Monroe associated herself with many notable intellects including Soul Bellow and Truman Cope. Additionally, she had a surprisingly high IQ score for what the media made her out to be. 

Although at the time it was more powerful to be sexual and beautiful than intelligent, I believe that times are changing in a positive manner. Various female celebrities including singers, actresses, and comedians show their smarts and still have a strong fanbase. Natalie Portman for example is in various famous movies including Black Swan and Thor, she is well known for her movies but she also has a degree from Harvard and does not compromise her smarts for fame. Women should look to Portman as an inspiration because she does not hide her educational background and remains successful.

What effects would arise if the first thing that came to mind when thinking of Marilyn Monroe was her impressive IQ? There are many positive effects of celebrities showing their intellectual side to the public through interviews and the media. Young fans tend to look up to celebrities as inspirations. Therefore, if they see icons like Marilyn Monroe gaining popularity acting dumb, they will most likely assume that is the way to act to make friends or impress their peers. However, if celebrities take pride in their education or working hard in school, it will have a positive effect on their fans. Additionally, it directly combats the objectification that women suffer from everyday.