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What Happened to Marilyn Monroe's First Husband?

Published in Marilyn Monroe's Husband 2 mins read

Marilyn Monroe's first husband, James Dougherty, passed away on August 15, 2005, at the age of 84 in San Rafael, California, due to complications of leukemia.

Who Was James Dougherty?

James Dougherty was an American police officer and writer, widely recognized for his early marriage to the legendary actress Marilyn Monroe. At the time of their wedding in 1942, she was known as Norma Jeane Mortenson and was only 16 years old, while Dougherty was 21. Their marriage lasted for four years, concluding in 1946, before Norma Jeane's transformative rise to global stardom as Marilyn Monroe.

His Later Life and Passing

Following his divorce from Marilyn Monroe, James Dougherty pursued a long and distinguished career, notably serving as a detective for the Los Angeles Police Department. He later relocated to Maine and continued to write, offering his unique perspective on his early life and his relationship with Monroe through his published works.

Dougherty lived a full life, reaching the age of 84. He passed away on August 15, 2005, in San Rafael, California. The official cause of his death was complications of leukemia.

Key Details of James Dougherty's Passing

Detail Information
Name James Dougherty
Date of Death August 15, 2005
Age at Death 84 years old
Location San Rafael, California
Cause Complications of leukemia

Legacy and Remembrance

  • Enduring Connection: Despite their divorce preceding Marilyn Monroe's immense fame, Dougherty remained a notable figure in the narrative of her early life and personal history.
  • Authored Insights: He contributed to the public's understanding of Norma Jeane through his books, which offered a rare glimpse into her personality and experiences before her transformation into a Hollywood icon.
  • Law Enforcement Career: Beyond his brief marriage to the future superstar, he had a significant and respected career in law enforcement.

His life story offers a unique lens through which to view the formative years of one of Hollywood's most enduring legends, solidifying his place in cultural history.