As the world celebrates the 100th birthday of Hollywood legend Marilyn Monroe, actress, comedian, and performer Despina Mirou is honoring the icon in the most fitting way possible—by portraying Monroe once again, this time in the new television drama series N.Y. State of Mind.
For nearly a decade, Despina has captivated audiences across the United States and abroad with her acclaimed portrayal of Marilyn Monroe. Her performances have become a staple at legendary venues including the Comedy Store, Laugh Factory, and numerous stages throughout New York and London. Her tribute to Monroe was also featured as part of her celebrated Hollywood Iconic Stars 2022 performance series.
Now, Despina’s connection to the iconic star has reached a new milestone.
Following a live performance as Marilyn Monroe at New York City’s Producers Club, rising television director Donny Kash was so impressed by her portrayal that he immediately cast her in his new television drama series, N.Y. State of Mind. The role marked yet another occasion where Despina’s live stage performance directly led to an acting opportunity without a traditional audition process.
In the series, Despina appears alongside Shane Lawer and a talented ensemble cast, portraying Marilyn Monroe in a dramatic storyline filled with crime, suspense, and action. According to production sources, Despina’s performance was so natural that she effortlessly adapted to last-minute dialogue and character adjustments provided by director Donny Kash during filming.
This is not the first time Despina’s Marilyn Monroe portrayal has opened unexpected doors.
Several years ago, acclaimed British director Paul Wiffen discovered her live performance and cast her as Marilyn Monroe in the drama film Birth of a Goddess. More recently, director Eric Rivas selected her to portray Monroe in the feature film Enter the Requiem after witnessing her performance in New York. During one memorable scene filmed in Times Square, onlookers reportedly stopped to watch as Despina appeared in character as Marilyn Monroe.
When Despina first arrived in the United States to pursue her acting career, several entertainment publications referred to her as “The Brunette Marilyn Monroe” due to her striking resemblance to the legendary star’s charisma, glamour, and magnetic screen presence. Since then, her popularity has continued to grow internationally.
Produced by W.N.F. Productions, N.Y. State of Mind was created by Donny Kash and Carla Byrd to capture the energy, challenges, and excitement of modern New York City. The crime drama combines suspense, action, powerful characters, and compelling storylines designed to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
Fans of Despina often point to her unique ability to blend humor, beauty, confidence, and vulnerability—qualities that made Marilyn Monroe one of the most beloved entertainers in history. Whether performing stand-up comedy, acting in films, or stepping into Monroe’s iconic shoes, Despina continues to build a career that bridges classic Hollywood glamour with contemporary entertainment.
Adding to the excitement, renowned celebrity photographer Rob Klein has captured a stunning collection of images featuring Despina as Marilyn Monroe, further solidifying her reputation as one of today’s most recognizable and celebrated Monroe interpreters.
As Marilyn Monroe’s influence continues to inspire new generations, Despina Mirou’s latest television role serves as a reminder that true icons never fade—and that some performers are destined to carry their legacy forward.