Marilyn Monroe (right) and Kim Kardashian (left). Getty Images is credited.
After asserting that many people were unaware of Marilyn Monroe’s identity until she donned the movie star’s gown to the 2022 Met Gala, Kim Kardashian has once again found herself at the heart of controversy.
Online users have reacted negatively to the reality star’s remarks, accusing her of being both egotistical and untrue.
In an interview about her now-famous Met Gala moment, Kardashian implied that she brought the legendary actress to a new generation by wearing her famed garment.
She made reference to Monroe’s cultural significance prior to the event when she stated, “I think a lot of people didn’t even know who she was.”
“That was the most startling thing to me, so I was really glad to have that chance at all and that Ripley’s allowed me to share this moment so that it would endure.”
She continued by saying that she understands the significance of the outfit. According to The Express US, she stated, “I respect her and I understand how much this dress means to American history.”
The garment is the glittering, tight-fitting gown that Marilyn Monroe memorably wore when she sang “Happy Birthday” to then-President John F. Kennedy in 1962.
Critics find Kardashian’s statement all the more unexpected because it is still one of the most iconic pieces of fashion history.
Many others criticized Kardashian’s comment, claiming that Monroe was already among the most well-known women in history before the reality star ever wore her garment. The allegation was ridiculed by people on social media, with others highlighting Monroe’s lasting influence in pop culture, fashion, and movies.
“Marilyn Monroe is, was, and will remain a world-renowned figure.” One commenter tweeted, “Kim Kardashian’s dress didn’t change that.” Others criticized Kardashian’s remarks as being contemptuous of the star’s heritage and emphasized Monroe’s influence on Hollywood, feminism, and celebrity culture.

Kim Kardashian wearing the 1962 Marilyn Monroe dress. Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty is credited.
Historians also offered their opinions, pointing out that Monroe’s impact goes well beyond her sense of style and crosses decades.
According to one scholar, “Monroe’s films, personal struggles, and contributions to Hollywood have been studied for years.” “Long before Kim Kardashian was born, she was well-known.”
Kardashian’s choice to don Monroe’s iconic gown made the 2022 Met Gala contentious in and of itself. Originally created by Jean Louis, the garment was intended especially for Monroe and had only ever been worn by her. Critics contended that the garment shouldn’t have been altered or worn again because it was a delicate piece of fashion history.
Reports that the dress had been ruined following the occasion, with missing crystals and wear indicators, added fuel to the controversy. Although the dress’s owner, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum, denied any irreversible damage, the scandal increased calls for Kardashian’s involvement.

Kim Kardashian wearing Marilyn Monroe’s dress sixty years later. Getty is credited.
Monroe’s historical position is unassailable, even though Kardashian feels confident in her power. The Hollywood star is still a timeless representation of skill, beauty, and cultural influence.
It’s obvious that Marilyn Monroe’s legacy didn’t require an introduction, even though Kardashian’s Met Gala moment undoubtedly made headlines.