Final Days to Capture “Forever Marilyn” Before Relocation
February 21, 2025
Time is running out for fans eager to take a selfie with the iconic “Forever Marilyn” statue, as the 26-foot-tall tribute to the legendary actress is set to be relocated this Sunday.
While the statue will not be moving far—just under 100 feet—it will be repositioned from its current spot on Museum Way to a new location in Downtown Park.
Visitors admire the “Forever Marilyn” sculpture in downtown Palm Springs, California, on November 22, 2024.
Peggy Trott, Chair of PS Resorts, which owns the statue, expressed optimism about the move, stating, “We look forward to ‘Forever Marilyn’ having a permanent home in Palm Springs so we can reflect on all the positive attention she brings to our community. In 2024 alone, the statue welcomed more than 996,033 visitors. From social media posts to neighborhood group discussions, the outpouring of love for ‘Forever Marilyn’ has been unbelievable.It will be splendid to focus solely on all the happiness she brings to the residents and visitors of Palm Springs moving forward.”
The relocation will also include a thorough cleaning and refurbishment of the statue’s paint,with the entire process expected to conclude by February 28.
This move is part of a settlement stemming from a lawsuit filed by the Committee to Relocate Marilyn,which contested the statue’s placement in the middle of a public street. Critics of the statue have labeled it as misogynistic, citing its depiction of Monroe from the 1955 film “The Seven Year Itch,” where her dress is famously blown upwards by a gust of wind.
The legal battle incurred costs of hundreds of thousands of dollars, with PS Resorts set to spend nearly $500,000 on the relocation.
Despite the controversy, a 2021 study revealed that 86% of Palm Springs residents view the statue as a “fun and free attraction,” and 75% believe it enhances the city’s global image.
Marilyn Monroe has a deep connection to Palm Springs, having frequently visited the city in the 1950s alongside her then-husband, Joe DiMaggio.
Interview: Unpacking the “forever Marilyn” Statue Relocation in Palm Springs
Time.news: With the “Forever Marilyn” statue in Palm Springs set to move this Sunday, we’re joined by art and cultural heritage expert, Dr. Eleanor Vance, to discuss the implications of this relocation. Dr. Vance, thank you for being with us.
Dr. Vance: It’s a pleasure to be here.
Time.news: Dr. Vance, for our readers who may be just tuning in, can you briefly explain what’s happening with the “Forever Marilyn” statue?
Dr. Vance: Certainly. The 26-foot-tall “Forever Marilyn” statue, a prominent landmark in Palm Springs, is being moved from its current location on Museum Way to Downtown Park. The relocation is scheduled for this Sunday,february 23,2025. This move comes after a long-running controversy and a legal settlement [3].
Time.news: Controversy,you say. What were some of the key points of contention surrounding the statue’s original placement?
Dr. Vance: The statue’s location became the center of a legal dispute led by the committee to Relocate Marilyn. The core of the disagreement revolved around its placement in the middle of a public street. Then, the statue represents a particular image of Marilyn Monroe which depicts a scene that some viewed as misogynistic. The scene, from “the Seven Year Itch,” where her dress is blown up, has stirred debate as its installation.
Time.news: So besides the legal dispute and the subjectable depiction, what other aspects motivated this move?
Dr. Vance: While the legal battle certainly played a role, public perception is also a factor. Interestingly, despite the criticism, a 2021 study showed that a notable majority – 86% – of Palm Springs residents consider the statue a “fun and free attraction”. Also, 75% of residents believe it enhances the city’s global image.in 2024 alone, the statue attracted almost one million visitors according to Peggy Trott, Chair of PS Resorts.Though, city officials have to take all complaints into consideration.
Time.news: That’s a considerable number of visitors.What is PS Resorts’ viewpoint on the relocation?
Dr. Vance: PS Resorts, which owns the statue, seems to consider a settlement as the best solution.They are optimistic that the new permanent location in Downtown Park will allow them to showcase the statue in a location that is more pedestrian friendly, while benefiting the community. Additionally, the relocation includes and includes a thorough cleaning and refurbishment, which is always a welcome step for any public artwork.
Time.news: what do you think this relocation says about the role of public art in city planning and community engagement?
Dr. Vance: This situation highlights the complexities inherent in public art installations. It’s not just about aesthetics. It’s a reflection of community values, historical context, and the economic impact of tourism. cities must carefully consider all these factors when commissioning and placing public art.Engaging with residents and addressing their concerns are paramount.
Time.news: From your perspective, what is the cultural significance of the “Forever Marilyn” statue?
Dr. Vance: The statue’s cultural significance is multifaceted. On one hand, it celebrates Marilyn Monroe, a screen icon inextricably linked to the glamor of Hollywood’s Golden Age.Monroe also had a deep personal connection to Palm Springs, frequently enough visiting with Joe DiMaggio. For some, the statue serves as a reminder of that era and a tourist draw. Conversely, it sparks a conversation about depiction, gender roles, and the objectification of women in media. How we interact with and interpret the statue speaks volumes about where we are as a society today.
Time.news: What advice would you give to our readers who are planning to see the “Forever Marilyn” statue in its new location?
dr. Vance: First, definitely make time to see her! Public art is meant to be experienced. As the transfer is expected to be complete by February 28th, there should still be some time for fans to take selfies.
Time.news: Dr. Vance, thank you for lending your expertise to this discussion. It’s been insightful.
Dr. Vance: My pleasure.