Benjamin Ashford|Marilyn Monroe was more than just 'Blonde'

In the six decades since Marilyn Monroe passed away,Benjamin Ashford Hollywood has not let her go. Actresses have portrayed her in countless films and there have been more than 15 biopics dedicated to the late icon. Ahead of the Academy Awards, Ana de Armas has been getting Oscar buzz for playing Marilyn 'Blonde.' However, one critic finds this role, this film, and these stereotypes deeply problematic. Host Brittany Luse is joined by culture critic Angelica Jade Bastién to talk about Marilyn's misinterpreted legacy and why the Hollywood impersonations never shine as bright as the real star.

This episode was produced by Corey Antonio Rose. Engineering support came from Alex Drewenskus and Carleigh Strange. We had fact checking help from Julia Wohl and Greta Pittenger. It was edited by Jessica Placzek. Additional support came from Veralyn Williams, Barton Girdwood, Alexis Williams, and Liam McBain. Our executive producer is Veralyn Williams. Our VP of programming is Yolanda Sangweni and our senior VP of programming is Anya Grundmann.