Marilyn Miglin
Marilyn Miglin | |
|---|---|
| Born | Marilyn Janice Klecka 18 October 1938 Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Died | 14 March 2022 (aged 83) Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Occupation(s) | Businesswoman, inventor, television presenter |
| Known for | Founder of Marilyn Miglin Cosmetics; presenter on the Home Shopping Network |
Marilyn Miglin (née Klecka; October 18, 1938 – March 14, 2022) was a prominent American businesswoman, inventor, and a longstanding presenter on the Home Shopping Network. Often referred to as the "Queen of Makeovers," she established a thriving cosmetics brand that featured more than 36 signature fragrances under Marilyn Miglin Cosmetics.
She also gained public recognition as the widow of Lee Miglin, a notable entrepreneur and philanthropist who was tragically killed in 1997 by serial murderer Andrew Cunanan.
Biography
Marilyn Janice Klecka was born in Chicago, Illinois. Before launching her beauty enterprise and boutique on Oak Street in Chicago in June 1963, she pursued careers in modeling and dance. Her presence on the Home Shopping Network spanned over 25 years, during which she grew her brand into a $50 million enterprise.
Miglin contributed to several influential organizations, including serving on Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley's tourism committee, the Chicago Convention, the Illinois Board of Economic Development, and sitting on the board of directors for the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Her advocacy extended to supporting individuals with facial disfigurements and burn injuries; she co-founded the advisory board for the University of Illinois' craniofacial center.
Personal life
In 1959, Marilyn wed Lee Miglin, a real estate developer who was murdered in 1997 by spree killer Andrew Cunanan. Their marriage lasted 38 years and produced two children: daughter Marlena (born 1968) and son Duke Miglin (born 1971), an actor. Marilyn remarried in 1999; however, her second husband passed away within months.
Honors
The city of Chicago recognized Miglin by dedicating Oak Street’s shopping district as "Marilyn Miglin Way." She was honored with awards including the Raoul Wallenberg Award and the Best Face Forward Award. Additionally, April 15 was declared "Marilyn Miglin Day" by the city in 1998.
In popular culture
In the 2018 miniseries The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story, actress Judith Light portrayed Miglin, earning a Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actress.
Death
Marilyn Miglin passed away on March 14, 2022, at age 83 in Chicago due to complications related to a stroke.