Kim Kardashian has once again stirred controversy after claiming that many people were unaware of Marilyn Monroe until she wore the legendary actress’s dress to the 2022 Met Gala.
Her remarks have sparked backlash online, with critics labeling her statement as both inaccurate and self-absorbed.
In an interview reflecting on her Met Gala appearance, Kardashian suggested that her decision to wear Monroe’s iconic gown introduced the Hollywood star to a new generation.
“I think a lot of people didn’t even know who she was,” she said, referring to Monroe’s cultural relevance before the event.
She added that this realization surprised her and made her grateful for the opportunity. “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.”
Kardashian also emphasized her awareness of the dress’s historical significance. “I respect her and I understand how much this dress means to American history,” she stated, according to The Express US.
The dress in question is the sparkling, figure-hugging gown Monroe famously wore in 1962 while singing Happy Birthday to President John F. Kennedy. It remains one of the most recognizable pieces in fashion history, making Kardashian’s claim even more surprising to many.
Her remarks were met with widespread criticism, with people arguing that Monroe was already one of the most famous women in history long before Kardashian stepped into her dress. Social media erupted with mockery, with many highlighting Monroe’s lasting impact on film, pop culture, and fashion.
“Marilyn Monroe was, is, and always will be a global icon. Kim Kardashian wearing her dress didn’t change that,” one person tweeted. Others pointed out Monroe’s influence on Hollywood, feminism, and celebrity culture, accusing Kardashian of diminishing her legacy.
Historians also weighed in, emphasizing Monroe’s enduring significance. “Monroe’s films, personal struggles, and contributions to Hollywood have been studied for years,” one expert noted. “She was a household name long before Kim Kardashian was even born.”
Even before Kardashian’s comments, her decision to wear the historic dress at the Met Gala was highly controversial. Designed by Jean Louis, the gown was custom-made for Monroe and had never been worn by anyone else. Many argued that such a fragile piece of fashion history should have been preserved rather than altered and worn again.
The controversy deepened when reports surfaced that the dress had been damaged after the event, with missing crystals and signs of wear. While Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum, which owns the dress, denied any permanent damage, critics remained unconvinced.
Despite Kardashian’s belief in her influence, Monroe’s place in history remains untouchable. The Hollywood star continues to be a symbol of beauty, talent, and cultural impact.
While Kardashian’s Met Gala moment certainly made headlines, Monroe’s legacy never needed an introduction.