Palm Springs, CA

A new book arriving this spring aims to give readers a deeper look at one of Hollywood’s most enduring icons as the world approaches what would have been Marilyn Monroe’s 100th birthday.

THE MARILYN MONROE CENTURY: From Norma Jeane to Icon—A Story in Photographs, published by Abrams and scheduled for release on May 19, 2026, offers a visual biography tracing the transformation of Norma Jeane Mortenson into Marilyn Monroe. The hardcover release coincides with Monroe’s centennial celebration on June 1, 2026.

Written by renowned Hollywood photographer Dr. Bruno Bernard, widely known as Bernard of Hollywood, alongside authors Joshua John Miller and Mark Fortin, the 368-page volume combines photography, personal writings, and historical context to tell Monroe’s story from a new perspective.

The book features never-before-seen photographs from Bernard’s personal archive, along with diary entries and correspondence documenting his long-standing relationship with Monroe. Bernard photographed Monroe early in her career and is best known for capturing the iconic “Marilyn in White” image that became one of Hollywood’s defining photographs.

According to the publishers, the book explores not only Monroe’s rise to fame but also the personal struggles, vulnerabilities, and ambitions behind one of entertainment’s most recognizable figures. Bernard’s connection with Monroe reportedly reveals a friendship between two outsiders navigating the pressures of Hollywood while documenting Monroe’s growth as both an artist and public figure.

Joshua John Miller, Bernard’s grandson, and co-author Mark Fortin opened Bernard’s archives for the first time to help construct what they describe as a more personal and nuanced portrait of Monroe. The project also includes commentary from contemporary entertainment voices, including Academy Award-winning filmmaker Sean Baker, along with a foreword by actress, filmmaker, and activist Rose McGowan.

Beyond Monroe’s story, the authors say the book seeks to challenge long-standing myths surrounding her life while presenting historical material that offers readers additional context about the woman behind the global celebrity.

Dr. Bruno Bernard was one of the most celebrated photographers of Hollywood’s Golden Age, known for photographing stars including Clark Gable, Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, Gregory Peck, John Wayne, and Marlene Dietrich. In 1984, he became the first still photographer honored by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences with a major exhibition showcasing 150 images from his career.

Co-author Joshua John Miller is an actor, novelist, director, and producer known for cocreating the television series Queen of the South and co-writing The Final Girls. Mark Fortin, his longtime creative collaborator, also worked on both productions and is currently developing multiple film and literary projects.

The Monroe volume will also serve as the first installment in a broader publishing effort built around Bernard’s photography archive. Miller and Fortin are scheduled to release a second title in Spring 2027 titled The Palm Springs Racquet Club, highlighting Bernard’s rarely seen images documenting the legendary desert destination during its golden era.

THE MARILYN MONROE CENTURY: From Norma Jeane to Icon—A Story in Photographs will be available May 19, 2026, for $60 in hardcover format. The release includes full-color photography throughout the 368-page book.