Jimmy James is most famously known for resurrecting Marilyn Monroe. Between the mid-80's and late 90's, Jimmy was the world's premiere Marilyn impersonator. A native of Laredo, Texas, he discovered his resemblance to the blonde bombshell by chance and used his skills as a makeup artist to bring her to life. The result was an illusion so uncanny that it brought him both fame and controversy. From performing as Marilyn to sold out audiences to being sued by the actress' estate for appearing as her in a L.A. Eyeworks campaign, Jimmy got a taste of what it was like to actually be her!
By the late 90's, Jimmy had retired not only his Marilyn illusion, but also those of Bette Davis and Judy Garland. He refocused his career and pursued his love of live singing and vocal impressions, which he had been nurturing in tandem with being Marilyn. Using secrets known only to him, Jimmy channels an army of celebrities during his shows. Among them are Eartha Kitt, Cher, Bette Davis, Judy Garland, Elvis, and many others!
Interviewing Jimmy was an absolute gas! He regaled us with his stories of his celebrity friends, juicy gossip, and how drag essentially put him on the map. You can catch him next on the 2nd annual Wigstock Cruise, hosted by Lady Bunny, on August 21 and at the Stonewall Inn on August 22, where he will be performing his one-man show, "HEARING IS BELIEVING."
