Max Factor names Marilyn Monroe its new face

Legendary Hollywood actress Marilyn Monroe has taken on a new posthumous role as Max Factor's new global glamour ambassador.

It was 80 years ago that Mr. Max Factor made Hollywood history with his make-up studio which transformed the looks of some of the industry's biggest stars including a young Norma Jeane, who owed her iconic blonde locks and red-lipped look to the brand. 

“Marilyn made the sultry red lip, creamy skin and dramatically lined eyes the most famous beauty look of the 1940’s and it’s a look that continues to dominate the beauty and fashion industry. It is the ultimate look that defines glamour – nothing else compares," explained Max Factor Global Creative Design Director, Pat McGrath. 

The news was announced alongside the brand's latest project: #GlamJan, inspired by the Norma to Marilyn story, which is designed to help women transform their beauty looks this month with a touch of glamour. The social media campaign is led by McGrath along with model Candice Swanepoel, and will ask women to post their transformations with a #GlamJan hashtag and before-and-after pictures.

As for that famous face born back in 1926? She will star as both Norma Jeane and Marilyn Monroe in new TV, print and online campaigns, as well as PR and social media posts, all rolling out internationally from January 6.  

In 2013, Chanel also used archival material featuring Marilyn Monroe in a campaign for its No.5 fragrance, long associated with the actress after she revealed to Life magazine it was what she wore to bed.