In the iconic yellow brick road scene from the 1939 classic film “The Wizard of Oz,” Judy Garland joyfully skips alongside her faithful companion Toto and a multitude of friendly munchkins.
However, the behind-the-scenes reality, as revealed in a recently unearthed memoir penned by Garland's former spouse, paints a darker picture.
Sid Luft, in his posthumous book “Judy and I: My Life With Judy Garland,” disclosed how Garland endured torment on set at the hands of the munchkin actors.
Luft recounted instances where the men, who were significantly older than Garland, subjected her to unwelcome advances by groping her beneath her costume.
Their diminutive stature seemingly emboldened them to engage in such inappropriate behavior.
During the filming of the movie, Garland was just 17 years old, a pivotal moment in her career that would solidify her status as an enduring Hollywood icon.
Her marriage to Luft in 1952 resulted in two children before their eventual divorce in 1965, preceding Garland's tragic passing four years later.
Luft himself passed away in 2005, leaving behind this revelation in his memoir.
Notorious for their unruly behavior, the munchkin actors have a history of misconduct on the set of “The Wizard of Oz.”
Garland once remarked in 1967 about their drunken escapades, recalling how they would indulge in excessive drinking, leading law enforcement to intervene using unconventional methods.
In a further account, Garland disclosed an uncomfortable encounter when one of the actors attempted to pursue her romantically, only to be met with disapproval from her vigilant mother acting as a chaperone.
The actor's response to the situation highlighted a disrespectful and demeaning attitude towards women.
Adding credibility to these anecdotes, Bert Lahr, known for his role as the Cowardly Lion, echoed similar sentiments regarding the questionable conduct of some munchkin performers.
Lahr painted a grim picture, suggesting that some individuals resorted to unsavory activities for sustenance, including panhandling, pimping, and engaging in illicit activities.
Producer Mervyn LeRoy shed light on the chaotic atmosphere that prevailed off-camera, revealing instances of debauchery and revelry among the cast and crew, necessitating police presence to maintain order.
He emphasized the necessity for a certain level of intoxication to fuel the creative process during the making of a fantastical production like “The
