Rose McGowan, Joshua John Miller and Mark Fortin in conversation

Rose McGowan spent years exploring photographs of Marilyn taken by the late photographer Bruno Bernard - known as ‘Bernard of Hollywood’ - many of which are included in the Gallery’s exhibition, Marilyn Monroe: A Portrait. A kinship with Monroe blossomed for Rose and influenced her in becoming an artist in her own right.

Focusing on the countless iconic images that Monroe and Bernard crafted together, this conversation celebrates the joy, sorrow, comedic brilliance and fragility of Monroe’s life, and the kindred spirit Monroe and Bernard found in one another. In conversation with Bernard’s grandson, director Joshua John Miller and writer Mark Fortin, this event draws on the upcoming publication The Marilyn Monroe Century: From Norma Jeane to Icon, written by Joshua, with contributions from Rose and Mark. This special event will celebrate both the moment the lifelong friendship between Bernard and Monroe sparked to life, and what Monroe’s legacy means to Rose.

Following the talk, there will be a book signing of The Marilyn Monroe Century: From Norma Jeane to Icon, that will take place in the main Gallery shop.

This event forms part of a season of events, programmed in response to the Marilyn Monroe: A Portrait exhibition.

This event replaces the performance You’ve known me longer than anybody: Marilyn and Bruno Bernard in our programme. Tickets already booked for this event remain valid.

5 June 2026, 19.00-20.00

Ondaatje Wing Theatre

£15 (£12 Members / concessions)