Exploring Marilyn Monroe’s Love Affairs: How Many Men Did the Iconic Star Sleep With?

Marilyn Monroe, the renowned Hollywood starlet of the 1950s, captivated the hearts of millions not only with her undeniable beauty and talent but also with her enigmatic love life. Throughout her life, Monroe’s relationships with various high-profile men often overshadowed her astounding achievements in the entertainment industry. The question of how many men the iconic star slept with has become a topic of great speculation and intrigue, fueling endless discussions and rumors even decades after her untimely demise. In this article, we embark on a journey to explore the love affairs of Marilyn Monroe, seeking to uncover the truth behind her romantic entanglements and the impact they had on her personal and public life.

Marilyn Monroe’s allure continues to mesmerize audiences around the world, arousing curiosity about the men who may have experienced the intimacy of her company. Known for her sultry on-screen presence in films like “Some Like It Hot” and “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes,” Monroe’s off-screen romantic escapades often overshadowed her undeniable talent as an actress. But how many men did she truly have relations with? As we delve into the depths of her love affairs, it becomes evident that Monroe’s romantic conquests played a substantial role in shaping her tumultuous journey through fame, leaving an indelible mark on the woman behind the legendary icon.

Table of Contents

Early Romantic Interests

A. Monroe’s first serious love interest: James Dougherty

Marilyn Monroe’s love life was a topic of great intrigue and speculation throughout her career. Her early romantic interests played a significant role in shaping her later relationships and the course of her personal life. One of her earliest serious love interests was James Dougherty.

Monroe first met Dougherty when she was 16 years old and still known as Norma Jeane Baker. They married in 1942 when she was just 16 years old, and he was 21. Their relationship was an attempt by Monroe to escape her tumultuous upbringing and find stability in a conventional marriage. However, their union was short-lived, as Monroe’s blossoming career soon led her down a different path.

B. The impact of their relationship on her later love affairs

Monroe’s marriage to Dougherty had a lasting impact on her subsequent love affairs. Although her fame and success ultimately led to the dissolution of their relationship, it provided her with a sense of security and stability that she would search for in her future partners.

After her divorce from Dougherty in 1946, Monroe embarked on a career in modeling and acting, which thrust her into the world of Hollywood and its many opportunities for romantic entanglements. Her personal life became increasingly intertwined with her professional life, as she developed relationships with co-stars and prominent figures in the entertainment industry.

While Monroe had numerous affairs and relationships throughout her life, her marriage to Dougherty set the foundation for her desire to find love and acceptance. This early experience shaped her understanding of relationships and fueled her quest for lasting affection.

Overall, Monroe’s early romantic interests, particularly her marriage to James Dougherty, played a crucial role in shaping her future love affairs. It provided her with a sense of stability and security, even as her fame and success grew. These early experiences laid the groundwork for Monroe’s ongoing search for love and acceptance, which would define her personal life and contribute to her enduring legacy as a Hollywood icon.

IAffairs with Co-Stars

A. Monroe’s relationships with Joe DiMaggio and Arthur Miller

Marilyn Monroe’s love life was often entangled with her career in Hollywood, leading to numerous affairs with co-stars. Two of her most notable relationships were with Joe DiMaggio and Arthur Miller.

Monroe’s romance with Joe DiMaggio, a professional baseball player, was highly publicized and began while she was filming the movie “Love Nest” in 1950. The couple’s relationship escalated quickly, with Monroe eventually marrying DiMaggio in January 1954. Their wedding was highly publicized, capturing the attention of fans and the media alike.

However, Monroe’s celebrity status put a strain on their relationship. DiMaggio, who was used to being in the limelight himself, struggled to handle the constant attention that Monroe received. This, combined with Monroe’s demanding work schedule and her desire for independence, led to conflicts and the eventual dissolution of their marriage after just nine months.

After her divorce from DiMaggio, Monroe found solace in the arms of playwright Arthur Miller. They met in 1950 but did not become romantically involved until much later. Miller was attracted to Monroe’s vulnerability and admired her intelligence and talent. The couple’s intellectual connection was evident, and they married in June 1956.

Monroe’s marriage to Miller had a significant impact on her personal and professional life. She became more involved in intellectual pursuits and immersed herself in literature and politics. Miller’s influence on her led to an expansion of her acting abilities and a desire to be taken more seriously as an actress.

B. Analysis of how her celebrity status affected these relationships

Monroe’s celebrity status undoubtedly played a significant role in her relationships with DiMaggio and Miller. The intense media scrutiny and the pressures of fame placed a strain on her marriages. Both DiMaggio and Miller struggled with being in the shadow of Monroe’s iconic status and the constant attention from the media and the public.

Monroe’s fame often led to a sense of isolation and loneliness in her relationships. Despite her glamorous image, she craved love and acceptance. The demands of her career and the constant scrutiny took a toll on her mental and emotional well-being, adding challenges to her relationships.

In addition, Monroe’s fame attracted attention from other potential suitors, making it difficult for her to maintain a stable and faithful relationship. Rumors of extramarital affairs and constant speculation about her love life made it challenging for Monroe to navigate her personal relationships in the public eye.

Ultimately, Monroe’s love affairs with her co-stars were a complex mix of passion, desire, and the challenges brought by fame. These relationships shaped her personal and professional life, influencing her choices and adding layers to her iconic status as one of the most renowned stars in Hollywood history.

IAlleged Affairs with Hollywood Icons

Rumored relationship with Frank Sinatra

Throughout Marilyn Monroe’s life, she was surrounded by rumors and speculation about her love life. One of the most talked-about alleged affairs was her relationship with Hollywood icon Frank Sinatra. Reports circulated that Monroe and Sinatra had a passionate affair, but the truth behind these rumors remains elusive.

Both Monroe and Sinatra were at the height of their careers during the 1950s, which led to their paths crossing on numerous occasions. They first met in 1950 and quickly struck up a friendship. Sinatra was captivated by Monroe’s beauty and charm, and their bond deepened over time. Some witnesses claim to have seen them together in intimate moments, further fueling the rumors of a romantic relationship.

However, both Monroe and Sinatra vehemently denied any romantic involvement, maintaining that they were merely good friends. Some speculate that their alleged affair was carefully concealed due to the potential scandal it could have caused. Both stars were already facing public scrutiny, and a high-profile romance might have damaged their careers.

Speculations about an affair with Marlon Brando

Another Hollywood icon linked to Marilyn Monroe was Marlon Brando. Reports suggest that Monroe and Brando had a brief but passionate affair while working together on the set of “The Misfits” in 1961. The alleged relationship added another layer of intrigue to Monroe’s already complicated love life.

Monroe and Brando were known for their intense acting abilities, and their on-screen chemistry was palpable. It is said that their off-screen connection mirrored the intensity they displayed on camera. Witnesses claimed to have seen them engaging in intimate moments, further fueling the rumors.

However, as with the alleged affair with Frank Sinatra, neTher Monroe nor Brando ever confirmed their romantic involvement. The details surrounding their relationship remain largely speculative, leaving fans and historians to wonder about the truth.

Despite the lack of concrete evidence, the rumored relationships with Frank Sinatra and Marlon Brando highlight the fascination with Monroe’s love life. Her connections to Hollywood icons only added to the allure and mystery of her romantic escapades.

In conclusion, Marilyn Monroe’s alleged affairs with Frank Sinatra and Marlon Brando continue to capture the imagination of fans and researchers alike. Though the details remain unconfirmed, the rumors of her involvement with these Hollywood icons contribute to the enduring fascination with Monroe’s love life and legacy.

Exploring Marilyn Monroe’s Love Affairs: How Many Men Did the Iconic Star Sleep With?

Her Marriage to Joe DiMaggio

A. The whirlwind romance and their highly publicized wedding

Marilyn Monroe’s marriage to baseball superstar Joe DiMaggio was one of the most talked-about love affairs of her life. Following her divorce from James Dougherty, Monroe forged a whirlwind romance with DiMaggio in 1954. Their relationship captivated the public’s attention, with their every move scrutinized by the media and fans alike. The couple’s honeymoon phase was intense and passionate, as they were often seen attending glamorous events and public appearances together. Their highly publicized wedding on January 14, 1954, further solidified their status as a power couple in the eyes of the public.

B. The challenges they faced as a couple and eventual divorce

Despite the initial excitement surrounding their union, Monroe and DiMaggio faced numerous challenges in their marriage. The media attention and constant intrusion into their personal lives took a toll on their relationship. DiMaggio struggled to accept Monroe’s status as a sex symbol and the constant attention she garnered. Additionally, DiMaggio’s controlling nature clashed with Monroe’s desire for independence and freedom. These conflicts ultimately led to the demise of their marriage.

Monroe and DiMaggio divorced after just nine months of marriage in October 1954. Their split was marred by rumors of infidelity and disagreements over Monroe’s career choices. Many speculate that DiMaggio’s jealousy and possessiveness contributed to the downfall of their relationship. Despite their short-lived marriage, Monroe and DiMaggio remained connected in the public eye, as their love story became a symbol of unattainable happiness and tragic romance.

Reflecting on their marriage, Monroe later admitted that DiMaggio was the love of her life. In the years following their divorce, DiMaggio remained a significant figure in Monroe’s life, offering support and friendship during her turbulent times. Until her tragic death in 1962, Monroe and DiMaggio maintained a complicated connection, sparking the enduring fascination with their relationship.

In conclusion, Marilyn Monroe’s marriage to Joe DiMaggio was a pivotal chapter in her love life. Their whirlwind romance and highly publicized wedding captivated audiences, while their struggles as a couple highlighted the challenges of fame and personal fulfillment. The enduring interest in Monroe and DiMaggio’s relationship testifies to their cultural significance and the lasting impact of their love affair.

Her Intense Relationship with Arthur Miller

A. The intellectual connection between Monroe and Miller

Marilyn Monroe’s relationship with playwright Arthur Miller was characterized by a unique intellectual connection that set it apart from her previous romances. Unlike Monroe’s earlier love interests, Miller was someone she could engage in deep conversations with and explore her intellectual curiosity. Miller, known for his intellectual pursuits and acclaimed plays, saw Monroe’s potential beyond her sex symbol image. He recognized her intelligence, creativity, and talent, and encouraged her to pursue serious acting roles.

Their intellectual connection was evident in the letters they exchanged during their courtship and marriage. Monroe found solace in discussing literature, philosophy, and politics with Miller, which gave her a sense of fulfillment she had not experienced before. Miller’s influence on Monroe extended beyond her personal life and helped shape her professional aspirations. He introduced her to influential intellectuals and writers, further enhancing her intellectual growth and expanding her horizons.

B. The impact of their marriage on Monroe’s personal and professional life

Monroe’s marriage to Arthur Miller had a profound impact on both her personal and professional life. The relationship was highly publicized, with the media often portraying Monroe as a trophy wife. This scrutiny intensified the pressure on their marriage and added strain to their already complex dynamic. Despite their intellectual connection, their relationship was far from perfect. Monroe’s insecurities and Miller’s workaholic nature created tension within the marriage.

Professionally, Monroe’s marriage to Miller signaled a turning point in her career. She became determined to shed her sex symbol image and be taken seriously as an actress. This led to her involvement in the creation of her production company, Marilyn Monroe Productions, and her desire to have more control over the roles she played. While their marriage ultimately ended in divorce, Monroe’s partnership with Miller gave her the confidence and ambition to pursue her artistic aspirations.

Overall, Monroe’s relationship with Arthur Miller represented a significant chapter in her life. It allowed her to explore her intellectual potential, engage in meaningful conversations, and actively shape her career. Their marriage provided Monroe with a transformative experience that influenced her personal growth and professional trajectory. Despite the challenges they faced as a couple, Monroe and Miller’s relationship left an indelible mark on Monroe’s life and helped pave the way for her to be remembered not just as a renowned sex symbol, but also as a talented actress with artistic ambitions.

Affairs with Political Figures

Rumors surrounding Monroe’s involvement with John F. Kennedy

Marilyn Monroe’s love life was always a subject of intense speculation and fascination for the public. One of the most enduring rumors surrounding her romantic escapades is her alleged involvement with the charismatic and influential John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States.

Throughout her career, Monroe had been friends with several prominent figures in the political arena, including the Kennedys. However, it is the alleged affair with John F. Kennedy that has captured the imagination of many and fueled endless speculation.

While there is no concrete evidence to support the rumors, various sources, including Monroe’s close confidantes and insiders, have claimed that the affair did take place. Monroe was said to have had a close personal relationship with Kennedy, and their alleged romance is believed to have occurred during his presidency in the early 1960s.

The rumors surrounding Monroe and Kennedy only grew stronger following her infamous performance of “Happy Birthday, Mr. President” at Madison Square Garden in May 1962, where she seductively sang to Kennedy in front of a large audience. This iconic moment heightened public curiosity and fueled theories about their relationship.

Speculations about an affair with Robert F. Kennedy

In addition to the rumors involving John F. Kennedy, there are also speculations about an affair between Monroe and his younger brother, Robert F. Kennedy. Robert, who served as Attorney General during his brother’s presidency, was known to have had a close friendship with Monroe.

According to various accounts, Monroe and Kennedy had a personal and emotional connection that extended beyond mere friendship. Some claim that their alleged affair began after Monroe’s relationship with John F. Kennedy ended. However, like the rumors involving John F. Kennedy, there is no substantial evidence to support the claims of an affair between Monroe and Robert F. Kennedy.

It is important to note the sensitivity and controversial nature of these rumors, as they involve influential political figures during a crucial period in American history. The alleged involvement of Monroe with the Kennedy brothers has been a subject of speculation, conspiracy theories, and numerous books and articles.

While the truth about Monroe’s alleged affairs with John F. Kennedy and Robert F. Kennedy may never be fully uncovered, their existence has undoubtedly added to the mystique and allure surrounding the iconic star. Monroe’s association with political figures of such prominence demonstrates the impact of her beauty, talent, and charisma on those who sought her companionship.

In the next section, we will explore other alleged love affairs in Monroe’s life, considering the challenges of verifying these claims and distinguishing fact from fiction.

Unconfirmed Relationships

Mention of other alleged love affairs with lesser-known figures

In addition to Marilyn Monroe’s well-documented and high-profile relationships, there have been numerous claims and rumors about her involvement with lesser-known figures. These alleged love affairs have often sparked curiosity and intrigue among Monroe’s fans and biographers alike.

One of the rumored relationships is with Joe DiMaggio’s close friend and renowned playwright, Tennessee Williams. According to some accounts, Monroe and Williams had a brief fling during her marriage to DiMaggio. However, the evidence for this alleged affair is largely circumstantial, and it is difficult to confirm its veracity.

Another alleged lover is Yves Montand, a French actor with whom Monroe co-starred in the film “Let’s Make Love” in 1960. Reports suggest that Monroe and Montand had a passionate affair both on and off the set. However, due to the secretive nature of their relationship, there is limited concrete information to support these claims.

The difficulty of verifying these claims and distinguishing fact from fiction

Verifying the claims of these alleged relationships is challenging due to the passage of time, lack of concrete evidence, and the tendency for rumors to circulate in the world of celebrity gossip. Monroe’s own fame and allure have often contributed to the proliferation of such stories.

Additionally, the culture of secrecy and fear of scandal that permeated Hollywood during Monroe’s era further complicates the ability to separate fact from fiction. Hollywood studios exerted significant control over the public images of their stars, often covering up or denying any information that could damage their reputation.

While some individuals who claimed to be involved with Monroe have come forward with their stories, these accounts are often met with skepticism. The complexity of Monroe’s personal life and her longing for privacy only add to the difficulty of uncovering the truth about these lesser-known relationships.

Despite these challenges, the existence of these unconfirmed relationships continues to be a subject of fascination and speculation among Monroe’s admirers. They fuel the ongoing interest in Monroe’s love life and contribute to the enigmatic aura that surrounds her legacy.

In conclusion, while Monroe’s well-known relationships with famous figures have been extensively documented, there are also numerous claims about her alleged affairs with lesser-known individuals. Verifying the truth behind these claims is a difficult task due to the lack of concrete evidence and the secretive nature of Hollywood during that era. Nevertheless, these unconfirmed relationships contribute to the enduring intrigue surrounding Monroe’s love life and solidify her status as an icon.

Contributions of Monroe’s Love Life to her Image

A. The role of Monroe’s relationships in shaping her public persona

Marilyn Monroe’s love life played a significant role in shaping her public persona as both a symbol of sensuality and vulnerability. Her relationships with various men, both famous and lesser-known, fueled the public’s obsession with her personal life and added an air of mystery to her image.

Monroe’s tumultuous love affairs painted her as a fragile and delicate woman, constantly searching for love and acceptance. This portrayal only intensified her status as a sex symbol, as it created a narrative of a woman who appeared confident and alluring on the surface but was deeply insecure and longing for affection beneath.

The media’s relentless coverage of Monroe’s relationships magnified the public’s imagination. Each new love interest or rumored affair became a headline, keeping her in the public eye and fueling the intrigue surrounding her personal life. Her relationships with high-profile figures like Joe DiMaggio and Arthur Miller only amplified this fascination, as the public closely followed every twist and turn.

B. How her love affairs added layers to her iconic status

Monroe’s love affairs added layers to her iconic status by humanizing her and making her relatable to her fans. Despite her undeniable beauty and glamour, the public could perceive her as a woman with the same desires, emotions, and flaws as any other person. This relatability endeared her to her admirers and made her more than just a distant Hollywood star.

Her marriage to Joe DiMaggio, a sports hero, created an image of the all-American couple, blending the glamour of Hollywood with the dreams and ideals of the average American citizen. This relationship allowed Monroe to transcend her status as a sex symbol and be seen as someone capable of a traditional, committed partnership.

Similarly, her deep connection with Arthur Miller, a renowned playwright, showcased her intellectual side and added depth to her public image. This relationship reinforced the perception of Monroe as a talented and multifaceted woman beyond her sex appeal.

Furthermore, Monroe’s alleged affairs with political figures like John F. Kennedy and Robert F. Kennedy fueled speculation and rumors, elevating her mystique even further. These associations added an element of danger and scandal to her image, positioning her as a woman intertwined with the powerful and influential.

In conclusion, Monroe’s love life significantly contributed to her image as a symbol of sensuality and vulnerability. Her relationships shaped public perception, fueling fascination and adoration. By portraying her as a complex and relatable woman, these love affairs added layers to her iconic status, making her more than just a beautiful face on the silver screen. The enduring fascination with her romantic life and legacy continues to captivate audiences, cementing her status as a timeless and enigmatic figure in popular culture.

Exploring Marilyn Monroe’s Love Affairs: How Many Men Did the Iconic Star Sleep With?

X. Analysis of Monroe’s Lovers

Throughout her tumultuous life, Marilyn Monroe had numerous romantic relationships that have captivated the public’s imagination. Examining her lovers provides insights into her personal life and psychological well-being.

Monroe’s partners exhibited common traits and characteristics that Monroe was drawn to. Many of her lovers were powerful or influential figures in the entertainment industry or political sphere. They were often older than Monroe and exuded confidence and charisma. Monroe seemed to be attracted to men who could provide her with a sense of stability and protection, qualities that were lacking in her early life.

However, her relationships also had a profound impact on Monroe’s psychological well-being. Despite her fame and success, she struggled with low self-esteem and a deep desire for love and acceptance. Her quest for affection led her to seek validation through her romantic relationships, which often ended in heartbreak and disappointment. The intense media scrutiny surrounding her love life added to her emotional turmoil.

Monroe’s relationships with powerful men also affected her sense of self-worth. Being associated with famous and influential figures boosted her own status and image in the eyes of the public. However, it also placed her in a position where her personal life became public fodder, further undermining her sense of self and contributing to her feelings of insecurity.

While Monroe’s relationships were often brief and met with turmoil, they added layers to her iconic status. She became more than just a sex symbol; she became an enigmatic figure who embodied both vulnerability and strength. Her love affairs contributed to her image as an alluring and complex woman who struggled to find true happiness and fulfillment.

The analysis of Monroe’s lovers also sheds light on her obsession with finding lasting love in her life. Despite attracting numerous suitors, Monroe seemed to be perpetually lonely and haunted by a fear of abandonment. This longing for affection might be attributed to her difficult childhood, which was marked by a lack of stability and consistent caregiving.

In conclusion, exploring Marilyn Monroe’s love affairs provides a deeper understanding of her complex personality and the impact of her relationships on her life. Her partners shared common traits and influenced her psychological well-being. Monroe’s quest for love and acceptance, coupled with the pressures of fame, shaped her public persona and contributed to her enduring fascination as an iconic star.

Exploring Marilyn Monroe’s Love Affairs: How Many Men Did the Iconic Star Sleep With?

RecommendedMonroe’s Desires for Love and Acceptance

Throughout her life, Marilyn Monroe had an unwavering desire to find lasting love and acceptance. Despite her iconic status and numerous love affairs, Monroe’s quest for affection remained unfulfilled. This section delves into the obsession she had with finding love, and explores possible reasons behind her relentless pursuit.

A. The obsession with finding lasting love in her life

Marilyn Monroe’s search for true love was evident in the numerous relationships she embarked upon. From her early romantic interests to her marriages and alleged affairs, Monroe consistently sought love and acceptance. Her desire for love often overshadowed other aspects of her life, and she left no stone unturned in her pursuit.

B. Discussion of possible reasons behind her quest for affection

Many theories have been put forward to explain Monroe’s intense desires for love and acceptance. Some suggest that her troubled upbringing and early experiences shaped her need for affection. Growing up in foster homes and enduring a tumultuous childhood may have contributed to her longing for stability and love.

Additionally, Monroe’s struggles with mental health and self-esteem issues are thought to have played a significant role in her pursuit of affection. These insecurities may have driven her to seek validation through romantic relationships, hoping to find the love and acceptance she craved.

Monroe’s career as a sex symbol also impacted her search for love. The public’s perception of her as an object of desire may have led her to believe that love could only be found through her physical appearance. This contributed to her constant concern about her image and the pressure she felt to maintain her allure.

Overall, Marilyn Monroe’s desires for love and acceptance were at the core of her romantic endeavors. Her troubled past, personal insecurities, and the external pressures she faced as a sex symbol all played a part in her relentless pursuit of affection. While her relationships brought her fame and notoriety, they ultimately left her unfulfilled, perpetuating her search for lasting love.

In conclusion, Monroe’s quest for love and acceptance was a recurring theme throughout her life. Despite her numerous relationships and iconic status, she never found the lasting affection she longed for. The impact of her romantic endeavors on her personal and professional life remains a significant aspect of her enduring legacy, captivating the fascination of fans and scholars alike.

Exploring Marilyn Monroe’s Love Affairs: How Many Men Did the Iconic Star Sleep With?

Conclusion

Marilyn Monroe, one of the most iconic stars in Hollywood history, continues to captivate audiences even after her tragic death. Her magnetic allure and enigmatic personality have made her a subject of endless speculation, especially when it comes to her love life and the number of men she had relationships with. Throughout this article, we have delved into the various aspects of Monroe’s romantic entanglements, analyzed her relationships with different individuals, and explored the impact they had on her personal and professional life.

The enduring fascination with Monroe’s love affairs is a testament to their significance in shaping her image and legacy. Monroe’s relationships played a crucial role in molding her public persona, adding layers of depth and complexity to her iconic status. Her romantic liaisons showcased not only her physical beauty but also her emotional vulnerability, giving fans a glimpse into the real woman behind the glamorous facade.

Throughout her life, Marilyn Monroe craved love and acceptance, and this desire for lasting affection became an obsession. Her quest for love was profound and relentless, possibly stemming from her difficult upbringing and a longing to fill the void left by a largely absent father. Monroe’s relationships were not merely fleeting flings but rather a search for a genuine connection that would provide the stability and happiness she yearned for.

Monroe’s love affairs were not without their challenges, often subjected to immense scrutiny due to her celebrity status. Her marriage to baseball legend Joe DiMaggio was a whirlwind romance that captivated the media, but their union faced significant hurdles, ultimately resulting in divorce. Similarly, her intense relationship with playwright Arthur Miller, who she married after divorcing DiMaggio, had its fair share of struggles, highlighting the difficulties of trying to balance love with an unconventional lifestyle.

While some of Monroe’s relationships have been confirmed, others remain unverified, leaving room for speculation and rumors. Alleged affairs with Hollywood icons like Frank Sinatra and Marlon Brando have fueled intense curiosity among fans and historians alike. However, separating fact from fiction becomes increasingly challenging as time passes, and the true extent of Monroe’s romantic escapades may forever remain a mystery.

In conclusion, Marilyn Monroe’s love affairs continue to captivate audiences, shedding light on the complexities of her life and the impact they had on her as an individual. They not only contributed to her image as a sex symbol but also shaped her personal journey, adding layers of depth and vulnerability. Monroe’s quest for love and acceptance ultimately became an integral part of her legacy, ensuring that her romantic life remains an enduring topic of fascination.

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