Marilyn Monroe. Career Beginnings and Modeling

While her husband James Dougherty was away, Norma Jeane began working in a radioplane factory and was discovered by a photographer, leading to a fruitful pin-up modeling career.

After an unsuccessful interview at Paramount Pictures, she signed a contract with 20th Century Fox, adopting the stage name 'Marilyn Monroe'.

Marilyn spent her first six months at Fox learning acting, singing, and dancing. Her contract was renewed in February 1947, and she began receiving her first film roles.

Marilyn appeared in a national magazine spread in Family Circle Magazine, dressed like Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz with a little lamb, aiding her in securing a contract with 20th Century Fox.