Marilyn Monroe’s presence on set for Some Like It Hot at the Hotel Del Coronado stirred up both excitement and concern.
Even with Arthur Miller around, it was Jack Lemmon and Tony Curtis who tried to keep the spirits high amidst challenges.
The underlying reason for Monroe’s struggles seemed to be her pregnancy, marking the second time that year she was expecting.
Just six months prior, she had faced a heartbreaking ectopic pregnancy and subsequent miscarriage.
On September 6, 1958, Marilyn Monroe and the large production crew of Some Like It Hot descended upon the Hotel del Coronado for filming after spending four weeks in Hollywood.
The film, a creation of Billy Wilder, follows two musicians disguising themselves as women to escape bootleggers.
Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon take on these roles, with Curtis falling for Monroe’s character, Sugar Kane Kowalczyk.
Set in 1929 Chicago, the movie was primarily shot at the Samuel Goldwyn Studios in Hollywood and a resort hotel in Miami, with the Hotel Del serving as the backdrop.
Monroe, described as “still beautiful and shy” by the San Diego Union’s drama editor Edwin Martin, was accompanied by her husband Arthur Miller and her mentor Paula Strasberg, highlighting her dedication to her craft.
The Labor Day weekend in San Diego sizzled with heat, reaching 90 degrees in Balboa Park.
The city’s Fiesta del Pacifico added to the vibrant atmosphere with parades, carnivals, and street dances.
The community celebrated its heritage proudly, symbolized by events like California Story, showcasing the state’s rich ethnic past.
Shark sightings became a recurring theme during that time, adding a touch of excitement to the coastal scene.
As Monroe frolicked in the ocean, rumors of shark sightings circulated among onlookers, creating a mix of thrill and jest.
Monroe’s personal struggles off-camera painted a different picture from her on-screen persona.
Dealing with pregnancy complications, Monroe found solace in the fresh ocean air during breaks, envisioning a brighter future for her unborn child.
Les Webb, the Del’s doorman, shared insights into Monroe’s demeanor behind the scenes, depicting her as a pleasant person off-camera.
Despite challenges, Monroe’s professional commitment shone through, earning accolades alongside Lemmon for their performances in Some Like It Hot.
As filming progressed, Monroe’s allure captivated audiences, culminating in a pivotal seduction scene with Curtis.
The intricate dynamics between the characters added layers of humor and tension, showcasing Monroe’s versatility as an actress.
Wilder’s strategic casting of Monroe in Some Like It Hot paid off, elevating her status as a screen goddess.
The yacht scene exemplified the clever interplay between Monroe and Curtis, solidifying the film’s status as a classic.
In retrospect, Monroe’s involvement in Some Like It Hot marked a significant chapter in her career.
Amid personal challenges, she delivered a memorable performance that cemented her legacy as a Hollywood icon.
