Back in Time Today
The yellow brick road led to Hollywood immortality for the cast of The Wizard of Oz. While Dorothy clicked her ruby slippers and returned home, the real actors behind these beloved characters continued their journeys through life’s ups and downs.
Some found continued success, others faced personal struggles, and a few simply faded into the background of show business history.
1. Judy Garland – Dorothy’s Bittersweet Journey
At just sixteen, Judy Garland’s voice soared over the rainbow and straight into our hearts. Her portrayal of Dorothy launched her into superstardom, making “Over the Rainbow” one of cinema’s most treasured songs.
Following her Oz success, Garland dazzled audiences in classics like “Meet Me in St. Louis” and “Easter Parade.” Her 1954 performance in “A Star is Born” earned her an Oscar nomination.
Unfortunately, fame came with a heavy price. Garland battled addiction and financial troubles throughout her career. She passed away in 1969 at age 47, leaving behind a legacy as both a Hollywood icon and beloved figure in LGBTQ+ culture.
2. Ray Bolger – The Scarecrow’s Continued Dance
Ray Bolger’s rubber-limbed movements and comedic genius brought the lovable Scarecrow to life. His fluid dancing and perfect timing made audiences believe he truly lacked a brain while clearly being the smartest of the bunch.
After Oz, Bolger reunited with Garland in “The Harvey Girls” and found television success with his sitcom “Where’s Raymond?” His theatrical background served him well throughout his lengthy career.
Bolger remained active in entertainment for decades, never losing his passion for performance. He lived to age 83, passing away in 1987 with his Scarecrow legacy firmly intact and beloved by generations of fans.
3. Jack Haley – The Tin Man’s Unexpected Role
Jack Haley never expected to become the Tin Man. He stepped into the silver suit after Buddy Ebsen suffered a severe reaction to the aluminum makeup, creating one of Hollywood’s most famous casting changes.
Despite his memorable performance seeking a heart, Haley never again reached the heights of fame he found in Oz. He continued acting in musicals and comedies but remained forever linked to his metallic character.
Interestingly, show business stayed in the family when his son Jack Haley Jr. married Liza Minnelli, Judy Garland’s daughter. Haley lived to age 81, passing away in 1979 with his Tin Man legacy secure in film history.
4. Bert Lahr – The Lion’s Roaring Success
“Put ’em up, put ’em up!” Bert Lahr’s Cowardly Lion perfectly balanced comedy with genuine heart. His vaudeville and Broadway experience shone through every scene, creating a character both hilarious and touching.
After Oz, Lahr returned to his theatrical roots, achieving critical acclaim in Samuel Beckett’s “Waiting for Godot.” His stage work proved his dramatic range extended far beyond the cowardly feline.
Broadway remained his true home throughout his career. When he passed away in 1967 at age 72, the theater world mourned the loss of a versatile performer whose Lion remains one of cinema’s most beloved characters.
5. Margaret Hamilton – The Witch’s Surprising Kindness
“I’ll get you, my pretty!” Margaret Hamilton’s Wicked Witch terrified children worldwide, setting the gold standard for movie villains. Her cackling laugh and green skin became Halloween staples for generations.
Surprisingly, Hamilton was known for her gentle, soft-spoken nature off-screen. She appeared in numerous TV shows and commercials, often advocating for quality children’s programming despite her fearsome film persona.
Hamilton embraced her villainous legacy while using her fame for good causes. She lived to age 82, passing away in 1985, but her wickedly perfect performance continues to haunt and delight audiences in equal measure.
6. Frank Morgan – The Man Behind Multiple Curtains
Frank Morgan didn’t just play the Wizard – he portrayed five different characters throughout the film, including Professor Marvel and the Emerald City doorman. His versatility brought depth to Oz’s mysterious leader.
Morgan continued his distinguished acting career after Oz, appearing in classics like “The Shop Around the Corner” with James Stewart. His warm, grandfatherly presence made him a sought-after character actor.
Sadly, Morgan’s post-Oz career was cut short when he suffered a heart attack in 1949 at age 59. His multiple roles in Oz showcased his remarkable range and remain a testament to his acting prowess.
7. Billie Burke – Glinda’s Elegant Grace
Billie Burke’s ethereal Glinda the Good Witch floated into scenes with elegance and wisdom. Her sparkling gown and gentle demeanor made her the perfect fairy godmother figure for Dorothy’s journey.
Burke was already a major star before Oz, having been married to legendary showman Florenz Ziegfeld. Her theatrical background and natural grace made her ideal for the benevolent witch role.
She continued her successful film and theater career long after Oz, maintaining her status as Hollywood royalty. Burke lived to age 85, passing away in 1970, but her magical Glinda continues to inspire dreams of goodness and light.
8. Terry the Dog – Toto’s Hollywood Career
Terry, a female Cairn Terrier, stole scenes as the brave little Toto. Her professional training and natural charisma made her perfect for Dorothy’s loyal companion, earning her a place in cinema history.
Before and after Oz, Terry appeared in over a dozen films, including “Bright Eyes” with Shirley Temple. Her Hollywood career spanned many successful movies, proving her star power extended beyond the yellow brick road.
Originally buried in Studio City, California, Terry’s grave was destroyed during construction. Today, a memorial at Hollywood Forever Cemetery honors this four-legged star who captured hearts without speaking a single word.
9. The Munchkins – Small Actors, Big Dreams
The Munchkin actors, primarily members of the Singer’s Midgets vaudeville troupe, brought the magical Land of Oz to life. Their colorful costumes and enthusiastic performances welcomed Dorothy to their strange new world.
Many Munchkin actors faded into obscurity after their brief moment in cinema history. However, their contribution to the film’s magic was finally recognized in 2007 with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Jerry Maren, who played a member of the Lollipop Guild, became the last surviving Munchkin actor. He passed away in 2018 at age 98, closing the final chapter on the original Oz cast members.