'I am dying to walk bare-headed in the rain . . . I think England sounds adorable'
Marilyn Monroe

In July 1956, Marilyn Monroe arrived in London, on honeymoon with her husband Arthur Miller, to make The Prince and the Showgirl with Sir Laurence Olivier. It was meant to be a happy time . . .

Marilyn would work during the day at Pinewood Studios, in Iver Heath, while Arthur would write. Then, in the evening, the couple would be able to relax together in their private English country cottage.

But the cottage was a mansion, in Englefield Green, Surrey, and Marilyn, used to living in tiny hotel rooms and apartments, felt herself being watched. She was, by several of owner Lord Drogheda's servants, who were selling stories to the papers.

And when filming began, all did not go as hoped. Over time, Marilyn grew to hate Olivier; the feeling was mutual.

Marilyn found herself a curiosity for the frequently hostile British press. She took solace in bike rides in Windsor Great Park, in small acts of kindness from members of the public, and in a growing fascination with Queen Elizabeth, whom she longed to meet.

Michelle Morgan has interviewed many of those who worked with Marilyn or met her during her time in England, and describes her trip in vividly evocative detail, exploring the making of the first Marilyn Monroe Productions film alongside the star's troubled private life and her quest to meet the Queen. Marilyn spent only four months in England, but that short time reveals a great deal.


'England? It seemed to be raining the whole time . . . Or maybe it was me'
Marilyn Monroe

Praise for Marilyn Monroe: Private and Undisclosed: 'A touching portrayal of the star in her more private moments' Empire