the life and death of Anna Nicole Smith

Either the poster child for instant, unearned fame, or a uniquely American tragedy, Anna Nicole Smith inhabited many personas before her death on February 8, 2007: the Texas stripper turned trophy wife, the white trash goddess, and a walking punchline used for tabloid gags.

But only in hindsight are we able to grasp the inherent sadness of her journey, one driven by sexual exploitation, public humilation, and personal tragedy.

Words by Adam White

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Source: (AP/Mark J. Terrill) (Playboy/AP) (AP/Carlos Antonio Rios)

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