Actress Renee Taylor Reflects on Friendship With Marilyn Monroe

With a towering statue of Marilyn Monroe standing in downtown Palm Springs, the Hollywood icon continues to leave a lasting impression on the community.

Following a recent celebration marking what would have been Monroe’s 100th birthday, NBC Palm Springs spoke with someone who knew the screen legend personally.

Renee Taylor says she attended acting classes alongside Monroe in New York City during the 1940s, remembering the actress as vulnerable, determined and deeply committed to her craft.

Taylor says Monroe’s willingness to show vulnerability in front of fellow aspiring actors left a lasting impression on her and helped shape her own career in entertainment.

An Emmy Award-winning actress, screenwriter, playwright, producer and director, Taylor is perhaps best known for playing Sylvia Fine on the hit TV show "The Nanny."

Taylor says Monroe faced many hardships throughout her life, including a difficult childhood and struggles to be fully recognized for her acting abilities. She pointed to Monroe’s performances in The Misfits and Bus Stop as examples of her talent and emotional depth.

Even decades later, Taylor says Monroe’s resilience and authenticity continue to inspire her both personally and professionally.