Marilyn Monroe's Old Los Angeles Home Saved by City Council from Demolition

Recent decisions in Los Angeles and Palm Springs mark significant victories for Marilyn Monroe enthusiasts, ensuring her former residence's preservation and the potential retention of the iconic "Forever Marilyn" statue in California.

In Los Angeles, Monroe's brief yet impactful stay in a Brentwood home has been honored with a historic cultural monument designation, safeguarding it from potential demolition, according to AP News.

Meanwhile, a planning commission ruling in Palm Springs has bolstered efforts to keep the towering "Forever Marilyn" statue, depicting Monroe in her famous billowing dress pose, in place amid local debate.

Historic Designation for Monroe's Brentwood Home

The Los Angeles City Council unanimously voted to designate the former Marilyn Monroe home as a local historical landmark following a heated debate over its preservation.

Situated in the exclusive Brentwood neighborhood, the Spanish Colonial-style house was slated for demolition by its current owners, who sought to expand their adjoining estate.

Councilmember Traci Park spearheaded the initiative, emphasizing Monroe's unparalleled status in Hollywood history and the house's significance as the only property owned by the iconic actress, New York Times reports.

The decision adds Marilyn Monroe home to Los Angeles' roster of over 1,300 historically significant sites, underscoring its cultural value amidst a city where few landmarks celebrate women's heritage.

The move comes after legal challenges from the property owners, Brinah Milstein and Roy Bank, who argued that extensive renovations had erased any physical remnants of Monroe's occupancy and that the house had become a neighborhood nuisance due to tourist traffic.

Despite ongoing litigation, the council's decision marks a pivotal step in preserving Monroe's legacy in the city she briefly called home.

Supporters of preserving Monroe's Brentwood home, including landmark preservationists and residents, rallied against the demolition plans.

They cited Monroe's profound influence on pop culture and the cinematic landscape of the 1950s, stressing the house's historical and architectural significance.

Critics, however, contended that the property's alterations diminished its historical integrity over the decades, questioning the validity of granting it landmark status.

Legal proceedings continue as Milstein and Bank challenge the council's decision, alleging procedural misconduct and insufficient consideration of their concerns.

'Forever Marilyn' Statue's Fate in Palm Springs

In Palm Springs, the fate of the "Forever Marilyn" statue remains contentious as the local planning commission recently made a pivotal decision regarding its future.

The 26-foot sculpture, depicting Monroe's iconic scene from "The Seven Year Itch," has been a subject of debate among residents and stakeholders, Vulture noted.

Originally installed in Palm Springs and later relocated multiple times, the statue now faces scrutiny over its permanent placement.

While a hotel industry group advocates for its retention, citing its appeal to tourists and cultural significance, some locals oppose its prominent display in the city's landscape.

The planning commission's recent decision, which supports keeping the statue in Palm Springs, signals ongoing deliberations expected to involve the city council in subsequent stages.

The outcome will influence the statue's continued role as a community cultural landmark and tourist attraction.

Both decisions reflect broader efforts to commemorate Marilyn Monroe's enduring impact on American culture and the entertainment industry.

In Los Angeles, the preservation of Marilyn Monroe Brentwood home symbolizes a commitment to honoring Hollywood icons, despite challenges posed by urban development and property rights.

Similarly, in Palm Springs, discussions surrounding the "Forever Marilyn" statue underscore the intersection of public art, tourism, and community identity.

As stakeholders navigate these debates, Monroe's legacy continues to inspire discussions on historic preservation and cultural heritage across California.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Ross Key

WATCH: Marilyn Monroe's Brentwood home saved, declared cultural landmark - From FOX 11 Los Angeles