Marilyn Monroe TV drama moving ahead with its development
The series has the blessing of the Monroe estate and will be penned by The Good Karma Hospital scribe Dan Sefton
A new TV drama that will explore the last months of Marilyn Monroe's, based on Keith Badman's biographical book The Final Years of Marilyn Monroe, is moving ahead with its development.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, the series is being produced by 101 Studios and Seven Seas films, and although it does not currently have a network attached it has been given the go ahead by the estate of the Hollywood icon.
It will reportedly chronicle the difficult final months leading up to the star's tragic death, during which she was embroiled in a troubling situation involving the Mafia, the Kennedy administration and the Hollywood elite.
The series will be written by The Good Karma Hospital and The Mallorca Files scribe Dan Sefton, who said of the project, "Many people think they know the truth about Marilyn Monroe’s final months, but it’s a complicated and tragic story; one which we want to depict with compassion and sensitivity.
"It's fantastic to be partnering with 101 Studios and ABG on the next stage of development, and we can’t wait to bring Marilyn to life."
David Glasser, the CEO of 101 Studios, added, "Beloved movie legend Marilyn Monroe has had many memoirs created about her life, but none quite like this.
"Keith Badman has uncovered gems of never before released details, centered around the last few months of her sensationalised life and the accusations made. The series pays homage to the bright star whose life was extinguished too early."
Meanwhile Katie Jones of Authentic Brands Group, the owner of the Monroe Estate said, "Marilyn Monroe is an enigmatic icon whose multifaceted life continues to inspire and intrigue us.
"She was a trailblazer who forged her own path, during a time when women’s voices were often ignored and silenced.
"It is the perfect time to tell her iconic story as the challenges she faced are still prevalent in women’s lives today."
No casting for the series has yet been announced, but it seems likely that the role of Monroe will be a much sought-after part.
Authors
Patrick Cremona is the Senior Film Writer at Radio Times, and looks after all the latest film releases both in cinemas and on streaming. He has been with the website since October 2019, and in that time has interviewed a host of big name stars and reviewed a diverse range of movies.