TL;DR
- Jack Cole was a groundbreaking gay choreographer for Marilyn Monroe.
- His new biography reveals both his brilliance and struggles.
- Cole’s work challenged societal norms in dance and culture.
- He influenced many famous dancers but remained overlooked.
- The book highlights his complex personal life and legacy.
When you think of Marilyn Monroe, what comes to mind? The sultry smile, the iconic blonde bob, or perhaps the unforgettable performance of “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend”? But behind those dazzling moments is a name that deserves to be as celebrated as the star herself: Jack Cole. This fabulous gay choreographer was the mastermind behind some of Monroe’s most iconic dance numbers, and a new biography is finally giving him the spotlight he so richly deserves.
In Jazzed: Jack Cole and Twentieth-Century American Dance, dance critic Debra Levine takes us on a journey through the life of this brilliant yet complicated figure. Even if you’ve never seen a Marilyn Monroe film, chances are you’ve encountered clips of her legendary performances, and you might not have realized that the genius behind those moves was a queer man who revolutionized dance in Hollywood.
Levine herself was struck by the realization of Cole’s impact after attending a screening of Gentlemen Prefer Blondes in 2008. “There’s the feeling that actors just break into dances on their own, and you rarely stop and think that a choreographer authored the movement,” she reflects. After a serendipitous meeting with filmmaker Kenneth Anger, who urged her to explore Cole’s story, Levine became hooked on the idea of uncovering the layers of this fascinating artist.
Jack Cole wasn’t just a one-hit wonder; he choreographed several of Monroe’s performances, including scenes in There’s No Business Like Show Business and Some Like It Hot. His influence can be seen in the works of dance legends like Bob Fosse and Jerome Robbins, yet his contributions have often been overshadowed by the very stars he helped shine. Levine’s research reveals that Cole faced numerous challenges, including mental health struggles, addiction, and the pervasive homophobia of his time.
“Peeling the onion on a complex personality like Jack Cole’s is a very big challenge for a biographer,” Levine admits. She dives into the darker aspects of his life, detailing how he grappled with his identity in an era that viewed homosexuality as a perversion. Yet, through it all, Cole emerged as a profile in courage for the LGBTQ community, using his art to challenge societal norms and encourage audiences to embrace diversity.
Levine’s biography doesn’t shy away from the complexities of Cole’s character. It paints a portrait of a man who was both generous and deeply flawed, a creator who pushed boundaries while battling his own demons. “I write about Jack Cole’s forlorn childhood of neglect and the shortcomings of both of his parents,” she explains, emphasizing the impact of his upbringing on his life and work.
As we celebrate the contributions of LGBTQ artists throughout history, Jack Cole’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing those who have paved the way for future generations. His legacy is one of resilience, creativity, and the power of dance to transcend societal barriers. So next time you watch a Marilyn Monroe film, remember the man behind the curtain, whose choreography brought magic to the screen and whose life story is now finally getting the recognition it deserves.