Marilyn Returns to the Hotel Bel Air

Marilyn first stayed at the Hotel Bel Air in 1948, and again as a rising star in 1952, renting a suite with pool and terrace garden. She returned a decade later for her Vogue shoot with Bert Stern over a five-day period in June 1962, working first in suite 261, and then bungalow 296. Although known as ‘The Last Sitting,’ Marilyn would complete two other, less formal shoots with Allan Grant (for LIFE) and George Barris (Cosmopolitan) before her death in August. However, her final studio session was indeed with Stern.

Returning to the scene of this brilliant, yet controversial project, Bert Stern – The Last Sitting will be displayed in the Hotel Bel Air lobby from September 1st – October 31st.

UPDATE: Photos from the exhibition…