Some actresses audition for a role.
Despina Mirou simply becomes the character.
The internationally recognized actress and comedian has spent years captivating audiences with her portrayal of Marilyn Monroe, and now that dedication has led to yet another major opportunity. Just as the world prepares to celebrate the 100th birthday of Hollywood icon Marilyn Monroe, Despina has been cast as the legendary star in the new television drama series N.Y. State of Mind.
The role came about in a way that has become surprisingly familiar for the actress.
Following a live performance as Marilyn Monroe at New York’s Producers Club, director Donny Kash watched Despina command the stage and immediately knew he had found his Marilyn. Impressed by her appearance, timing, charisma, and ability to embody the legendary actress, Kash cast her in N.Y. State of Mind, a new crime drama produced by W.N.F. Productions.
For Despina, it was another example of art imitating life.
This marks the third time she has been discovered live on stage and cast as Marilyn Monroe without a traditional audition.
Her first major Marilyn role came when British director Paul Wiffen saw her performance and selected her for the film Birth of a Goddess. Years later, filmmaker Eric Rivas watched her perform in New York and cast her as Marilyn in Enter the Requiem. During filming in Times Square, Despina’s appearance as Monroe attracted crowds of curious spectators who stopped to take photos and watch the production unfold.
Few performers have become as closely associated with Marilyn Monroe as Despina. For more than eight years, she has portrayed the screen legend in some of the most famous comedy and entertainment venues in the world, including the Comedy Store and Laugh Factory in Los Angeles, as well as numerous stages throughout New York and London.
Her performances have earned her a devoted following and widespread media attention. Early in her American career, entertainment publications began referring to her as “The Brunette Marilyn Monroe,” a nickname that continues to follow her today.
In N.Y. State of Mind, Despina appears alongside Shane Lawer and a talented ensemble cast in a fast-paced series filled with crime, suspense, action, and drama. Playing Marilyn Monroe in an entirely new setting, Despina brought both creativity and spontaneity to the role, even incorporating last-minute dialogue and scene adjustments during filming.
Created by Donny Kash and Carla Byrd, N.Y. State of Mind aims to capture the energy and intensity of New York City through stories involving crime, danger, power struggles, and redemption. The series promises plenty of twists and dramatic moments designed to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
Those who have followed Despina’s career say her connection to Marilyn Monroe goes beyond physical resemblance. Like Monroe, she possesses a magnetic stage presence, natural charm, and ability to connect emotionally with audiences. Whether performing stand-up comedy, appearing in films, or portraying Hollywood’s most enduring icon, she consistently leaves a lasting impression.
Celebrity photographer Rob Klein has also captured a series of striking images of Despina as Marilyn Monroe, creating photographs that blend classic Hollywood glamour with a modern sensibility. The images have become favorites among fans and further cemented her reputation as one of today’s most recognizable Marilyn Monroe performers.
As Marilyn Monroe’s 100th birthday approaches, Despina Mirou finds herself once again carrying the torch for one of entertainment’s greatest legends. From live stages to film sets and now television screens, her remarkable journey proves that sometimes the right performer doesn’t need an audition.
Sometimes all it takes is one unforgettable performance.