Behind The Scenes Secrets: The Wizard Of Oz

What About Judy Garland?

Yes,The Wizard of Ozwas a tremendous critical success, but Garland was a big part of why it was a hit. She was recognized for herrole,when she Garland received an Academy Award (a Juvenile Award) in 1939. The recognition included bothThe Wizard of OzandBabes in Arms, which were both released in the same year. It would have been difficult to see her as anything other than a well-regarded, even “bankable” star from that point forward, but she continued to struggle with depression, nervousbreakdownand drugs for the rest of her life.

For her appearance on the Bing Crosby Show, she was hysterical (and had just survived her second suicide attempt), as she stood in the wings. And, he said, “We got a friend here, she’s had a little trouble recently. You probably heard about it – Everything is fine now, she needs our love. She needs our support. She’s here – let’s give it to her, OK? Here’s Judy.”