Sydney Sweeney Confirmed to Be Related to Marilyn Monroe
A new genealogy study reveals a direct familial link between the "Euphoria" star and the Hollywood icon, adding a new layer to Sweeney's frequent homages to Monroe.
A recent genealogy study has confirmed a familial connection between actress Sydney Sweeney and screen legend Marilyn Monroe. The findings, reported by Entertainment Weekly, establish that Sweeney is a descendant of Monroe's biological father, Charles Stanley Gifford.
The study, conducted by MyHeritage, traced the lineage back to a shared ancestor, Ezra Perry, who lived in Massachusetts in the 17th century. Sweeney's father, Steven Sweeney, shares this ancestor with Gifford.
While Sweeney has not previously spoken about a direct connection, comparisons between the two actresses have been frequent. Both have been recognized as defining sex symbols of their respective eras, leveraging their public personas to advance their careers. Both are also natural brunettes who adopted the blonde bombshell image.
Beyond their shared physical presence and career trajectories, similarities extend to their professional recognition and personal lives. Sweeney has received critical acclaim for her roles in "The White Lotus," "Euphoria," "Reality," and "Anyone But You." Monroe, prior to her death in 1962, was also noted for her acting talent, with a notable dramatic turn in "The Misfits."
Both women were raised as Christians and later explored Judaism. Monroe converted in 1956 before marrying playwright Arthur Miller. Reports indicate Sweeney has also shown an openness to Judaism.
Sweeney has paid tribute to Monroe on multiple occasions through her fashion choices. In February, she wore a 1952 Ceil Chapman dress, previously donned by Monroe for a Life magazine cover, to the Santa Barbara International Film Festival. She has also drawn parallels with Monroe's iconic looks from films like "The Seven Year Itch" and "Some Like It Hot" at various red carpet events in recent years.
Marilyn Monroe died on August 4, 1962, at the age of 36. Her death was ruled a probable suicide. Her legacy continues to be celebrated, with exhibits like the "Marilyn Monroe: Hollywood Icon" at the Academy Museum in Los Angeles examining her enduring cultural impact.