Behind The Scenes Secrets: The Wizard Of Oz

Little Girl Lost

Biographers have referred to Judy Garland as a “lost little girl.” She was completely made over and made-up to be a different person than the Frances Ethel Gumm she once was. But, she’d also lost her father.

Frank Gumm, her father, died in 1935, leaving her alone with her mother. She often said, “My father’s death was the most terrible thing that happened to me in my life.” With many of her future relationships, she was seeking a replacement father figure. “I was always lonesome.” She said, “The only time I felt accepted or wanted was when I was on stage performing. I guess the stage was my only friend; the only place where I could feel comfortable. It was the only place where I felt equal and safe.”