In an exclusive literary event, acclaimed French actress Catherine Deneuve has joined forces with esteemed collector Sébastien Cauchon to produce "Marilyn Chérie," a captivating new book that delves into the luminous world of Marilyn Monroe. This meticulously curated 224-page volume, slated for release in May, serves as a poignant homage to the immortal Hollywood starlet, aligning with the celebration of her centennial birth year. The publication promises an intimate journey through Monroe's multifaceted life, showcasing an array of rarely seen photographs from Cauchon's vast private archives, offering admirers a fresh and profound insight into her iconic presence.

French Legend Deneuve Illuminates Monroe's Legacy in "Marilyn Chérie"

Paris, France - February 26, 2026 - Celebrated French film star Catherine Deneuve has, in collaboration with prominent collector Sébastien Cauchon, meticulously crafted "Marilyn Chérie," a book poised to shed new light on the life and times of the legendary Marilyn Monroe. This highly anticipated literary work, comprising 224 pages, is scheduled for publication in May, marking a significant tribute on the occasion of Monroe's 100th birth anniversary.

Deneuve, a cinematic icon in her own right, has long harbored a profound admiration for Monroe. The book presents a unique compilation of Monroe's photographs, including behind-the-scenes moments, costume fittings, iconic portraits captured by renowned photographers, candid press snapshots, and intimate amateur shots. Many of these captivating images, sourced from Cauchon's private collection and other exclusive archives, have remained unseen by the public until now, offering an unprecedented glimpse into Monroe's world.

Deneuve's personal connection to Monroe's legacy is evident throughout "Marilyn Chérie." She expresses a deep appreciation for Monroe's authentic beauty, her unreserved nature, and her almost childlike innocence, noting that these qualities never verged on indecency. Deneuve recounts watching all of Monroe's films, considering her the most cherished actress she never personally encountered. Her admiration extended to actively participating in the 1987 documentary "Marilyn, dite Norma Jean" and starring alongside Monroe's former co-stars, Jack Lemmon in 1968's "The April Fools" and Yves Montand in 1975's "Le Sauvage."

The global publishing rights for "Marilyn Chérie" are held by Flammarion, while Deneuve and Cauchon maintain the adaptation rights. Cauchon, currently an awards strategist, previously authored "Marilyn 1962" in 2016, a book that was later optioned for a miniseries. His extensive collection of Marilyn Monroe photographs has also been featured in a notable exhibition curated by Cannes Film Festival chief Thierry Frémaux during the 2022 Lumière Festival.

This collaborative effort between Catherine Deneuve and Sébastien Cauchon promises to be a treasure for cinema enthusiasts and admirers of Marilyn Monroe alike. It’s more than just a biography; it's a heartfelt appreciation from one cinematic giant to another, presented through a lens of curated intimacy and unparalleled photographic insight. The book serves as a powerful reminder of Monroe's enduring influence and timeless allure, ensuring her legacy continues to captivate new generations.