The last residence of Hollywood icon Marilyn Monroe (1926-1962) has been saved for the time being. Local authorities were able to prevent the demolition of the property. A demolition permit that had already been issued was stopped for the time being, and the Los Angeles City Council initiated proceedings to designate the house as a historical and cultural monument.
Villa with dramatic past
As reported by the Los Angeles Times, Monroe bought the one-story, 270-square-foot mansion in the early 1960s for $75,000 after the end of her third marriage to writer Arthur Miller (1915-2015). The property, located at 12305 Fifth Helena Drive, was the only residence the actress ever owned on her own. In August 1962, she was found dead there in one of the bedrooms at the age of 36. The cause of death was determined to be acute barbiturate poisoning.
The Spanish colonial-style residence was sold in 2017 for about $7 million and subsequently managed by a hedge fund manager. In early 2023, it came into the hands of new owners who eventually requested demolition, which was initially approved.
Last second rescue
Only at the last second did members of the city council manage to prevent the demolition. Council member Traci Park (47) had this to say about the matter in a press conference: "My team and I immediately took action. But unfortunately, the Ministry of Construction and Safety issued a demolition permit before my team and I could fully intervene and resolve this issue."
To this she added, "I am here with you today as a steward of the neighborhood that is home to Marilyn Monroe's beloved last residence. I am also here today to defend the rich history and heritage of our city."
The demolition permit already issued was revoked for the time being following Park's intervention, and the suitability of the property as a historic landmark in the city will be examined in the further proceedings. Until the process is complete, the current owner is prohibited from making significant structural changes to the property.
