How Marilyn Monroe promoted Ella Fitsgerald at the Mocambo in the 1950s

In the 1950s, Ella Fitzgerald was not allowed to play Hollywood's most popular nightclub, Mocambo, because of her race.

Marilyn Monroe, who was a big fan, called the owner & told him that if he booked Ella, Marilyn would be there every night - which guaranteed huge press… pic.twitter.com/DIbGMwCRae

— AFRICAN & BLACK HISTORY (@AfricanArchives) September 18, 2026