Draft:Charles casillo

Charles Casillo is an American writer, screenwriter, and journalist recognized for his deep dives into the lives of legendary Hollywood personalities and the intricacies of human relationships. A native of New York City, he studied acting at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and HB Studios, where he was mentored by acclaimed actress Sandy Dennis. His background in theater and immersion in New York’s vibrant arts scene have had a lasting impact on both his literary voice and the themes he explores.

Casillo is the author of several acclaimed biographies, including Marilyn Monroe: The Private Life of a Public Icon and Elizabeth and Monty: The Untold Story of Their Intimate Friendship. In these books, he offers a revealing glimpse into the emotional lives and private struggles of his subjects. His biography Outlaw: The Lives and Careers of John Rechy shines a light on the provocative and trailblazing life of the iconic gay author.

Beyond nonfiction, Casillo has also written fiction that mirrors his preoccupation with the allure and pitfalls of fame. His novel The Marilyn Diaries imagines the lost personal writings of Marilyn Monroe, rendered in her own voice, while The Fame Game unravels the story of three aspiring Hollywood actors caught in a seductive, yet ruthless, pursuit of stardom.

His journalism and creative writing have been featured in prominent outlets including The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, New York Magazine, and The Los Angeles Review of Books. He has also participated in several documentaries on Marilyn Monroe, such as Behind the Headlines: Marilyn and Her Men and Scandalous: The Death of Marilyn Monroe.

Today, Casillo splits his time between New York, Los Angeles, and Palm Springs, continuing to explore the themes of celebrity, identity, and the human condition through his writing.