Manning, South Carolina
Imitating Marilyn Monroe in the talent competition, Marian went on to win the Miss America title. As a high school valedictorian and straight-A student in college, Marian also won four academic scholarships and received her degree in Language Arts at U.C.L.A.
As an actress, Marian has appeared in numerous television shows and
countless commercials. As a public relations director or spokesperson,
Marian has represented such notable companies as Revlon, Evan-Piccone, Philco, General Foods, and V.H. Monette and Co.(Manager's
Representative to the Armed Forces). Ironically, the latter association
would team her up to work with Joe DiMaggio who was in attendance when Marian won her title. The famous ballplayer was once married to Marilyn Monroe!
Marian has done extensive work with state and congressional agencies, in addition to special charities. She is also a founding member of the Amie Karen Cancer Center.
Marian is married to actor Gary Conway, and is the very proud mother of
two U.C. graduates, Kathleen and Gareth. Gareth produces National
Geographic Today on the National Geographic Channel. Kathleen manages the vineyard and winery Carmondy McKnight
(www.carmodymcknight.com).
The story of the award-winning vineyard and winery has now entered into
legendary status. Marian's love and knowledge of fine wines as well as
years of involvement in developing their outstanding vineyard and
winery, has even increased her well-known reputation as a gourmet cook.
Marian has still managed to be active in television and theatre, as well
as being a guest speaker at special functions. With her husband, she has co-produced several motion pictures, including their most recent: A
Woman's Story. She is also well known as a favorite judge at Miss
America State Competitions in addition to the National Competition in
Atlantic City.
In the last scene of Vineyards and Vintages, a television series pilot
in which Marian appeared as well as produced, she can be seen jogging
through her glorious vineyard. This is not "method acting" as Marian is
an avid runner who has competed in marathons and has won her age
category in all the many races she as entered.
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