Did Jackie Kennedy Confront Marilyn Monroe about Her Relationship?
According to a newly released biography, “Jackie: Public Private Secret” by J. Randy Taraborrelli, former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy reportedly confronted her psychiatrist after discovering that the shrink had also treated Hollywood icon Marilyn Monroe – with whom her husband allegedly had an affair. However, there is no evidence that Jackie Kennedy ever confronted Marilyn Monroe directly about her relationship with John F. Kennedy.
The Context of the Story
The biography “Jackie: Public Private Secret” paints a vivid picture of the complex dynamics between Jacqueline Kennedy, her husband John F. Kennedy, and Hollywood star Marilyn Monroe. The book suggests that the seeds of tension were sown when Jacqueline Kennedy discovered that her psychiatrist, Dr. Leo Beck, had also treated Marilyn Monroe, who was rumored to have had an affair with her husband.
Jackie Kennedy and Her Psychiatrist
While the bio suggests that Jackie Kennedy was aware of the connection between Monroe and her psychiatrist, there is no concrete evidence that the former First Lady ever confronted Marilyn Monroe directly about the affair. The book implies that Jacqueline Kennedy was more focused on securing her own mental health and the stability of her marriage. It is unclear whether she ever brought up the subject of the affair with Marilyn directly, or if she simply expressed her concerns to her psychiatrist.
John F. Kennedy and Marilyn Monroe
The affair between John F. Kennedy and Marilyn Monroe was a subject of intense speculation and debate during his presidency. The book reveals that John and Marilyn often made clandestine phone calls from a bedroom during their therapy sessions with Dr. Beck. These calls were erratic and emotionally charged, suggesting a deep and complicated relationship beyond the surface level.
Marilyn Monroe's Acknowledgment
The biography claims that Marilyn Monroe herself acknowledged her relationship with John F. Kennedy. However, the exact nature and extent of her admission remain unclear. The book suggests that private moments and discussions between Monroe and her psychiatrist provided a window into the true extent of her bond with the president.
The Impact on Jackie Kennedy
Given the sensitive nature of the accusations and the rumors surrounding her husband and Marilyn Monroe, it is understandable why Jackie Kennedy would be deeply concerned and possibly confront her psychiatrist. However, without evidence of direct confrontation with Monroe, some historians and biographers are skeptical of the claims made in the book.
Conclusion
While the story of Jacqueline Kennedy confronting Marilyn Monroe about her relationship with her husband is compelling, the evidence remains inconclusive. The book “Jackie: Public Private Secret” provides intriguing insights into the dynamics between these powerful figures of the 1960s, but it is important to approach such claims with a critical eye and consider the selective nature of the historical sources available.
References
For in-depth analysis and further reading on the topic, consider the following sources:
Jackie: Public Private Secret by J. Randy Taraborrelli Historical articles in The Atlantic Academic papers in JSTOR