Blast From The Past! Judy Garland & Margaret Hamilton's Special Bond

Did the Wicked Witch of the West have a heart of gold? While Margaret Hamilton petrified generations as the cackling villain in "The Wizard of Oz," the truth behind her relationship with Judy Garland reveals a bond that transcended the silver screen, offering a poignant counterpoint to the on-set tensions and personal struggles that plagued the film's production.

The 1939 classic, "The Wizard of Oz," a film etched in the collective memory of generations, wasn't always rainbows and yellow brick roads behind the scenes. While the movie presented a fantasy world of friendship and camaraderie, the reality for its young star, Judy Garland, was often a stark contrast. Reports of the abuse she endured, including a restrictive diet of soup, coffee, cigarettes and pills, are now widely discussed. Amidst this challenging environment, a surprising and heartwarming connection emerged between Garland and her on-screen nemesis, Margaret Hamilton, the Wicked Witch of the West.

The narrative that Margaret Hamilton was one of the few genuinely kind figures to Judy Garland on set has gained traction, amplified by accounts like the Jack Parr story. This perception paints Hamilton as a beacon of support in what was, by many accounts, a turbulent and exploitative environment for the young Garland. Their friendship blossomed, evolving into a mentor-confidante relationship, a dynamic that offered Garland a degree of solace amidst the pressures of stardom.

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The chemistry between them was undeniable, fostered by their numerous shared scenes. It's said that Margaret Hamilton saw in Judy Garland a vulnerable innocence that she felt compelled to protect. While Garland was navigating the complexities of fame and the demands of the studio system, Hamilton provided a steadying presence, someone who had already weathered the storms of the entertainment industry. Multiple interviews hint at a deep connection and mutual respect, hinting at a bond that extended beyond the studio lot.

However, the making of "The Wizard of Oz" was not without its dark chapters. The infamous scene where the Wicked Witch threatens Dorothy, wagging her finger and promising havoc before disappearing in a cloud of smoke and fire, resulted in a near-tragic accident. A pyrotechnic mishap caused severe burns to Hamilton's face and hands, halting production for six weeks. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the physical risks involved in filmmaking and the challenges faced by actors in the early days of Hollywood.

Despite the accident and the inherent scariness of her character, Margaret Hamilton harbored a deep concern for the children who were frightened by her portrayal of the Wicked Witch. While she understood and appreciated the film's enduring appeal, she was sensitive to the impact her character had on young viewers. This concern speaks to her character, revealing a compassionate individual beneath the green paint and menacing cackle.

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In a testament to their enduring friendship, Judy Garland and Margaret Hamilton reunited on "The Merv Griffin Show" not once, but twice. The first appearance occurred on what appears to be an older Judy Garland show, filmed in October 1963, though it wasn't broadcast until March 1964. It's speculated that the delay in airing might have been influenced by the assassination of John F. Kennedy. Then, on January 6th, 1969, they appeared again on "The Merv Griffin Show." During the 1968 appearance, Garland playfully coaxed Hamilton into recreating her iconic cackle, a moment that reportedly sent the audience into a frenzy of delight. Sadly, footage of the 1969 appearance, which would be Judy Garlands last on US television, has been lost to time. These reunions underscore the strength of their bond and offer a glimpse into their off-screen dynamic.

The dynamic on the set of "The Wizard of Oz" was complex. According to Margaret Hamilton, actors like Ray Bolger, Jack Haley, Bert Lahr, and Frank Morgan (who played Professor Marvel/The Wizard of Oz) harbored insecurities, fearing that Judy Garland would overshadow them. Consequently, Hamilton claimed they sometimes played against her rather than with her. This alleged competitive atmosphere further underscores the difficult environment Garland navigated during filming.

Adding another layer of complexity, Judy Garland was aware that she wasn't the first choice for the role of Dorothy. Studio head Louis B. Mayer initially wanted Shirley Temple for the part. This knowledge likely added to the pressure Garland felt to excel and prove herself, further highlighting the challenges she faced as a young performer in Hollywood.

The 1939 film, directed by Victor Fleming and King Vidor, tells the story of Dorothy Gale, a young girl from Kansas who, along with her dog Toto, is swept away by a tornado to the magical land of Oz. There, she embarks on a quest with three new friends the Scarecrow (Ray Bolger), the Tin Woodman (Jack Haley), and the Cowardly Lion (Bert Lahr) to seek the help of the Wizard of Oz (Frank Morgan) in returning home and fulfilling their own desires.

The screenplay, credited to Noel Langley, Florence Ryerson, and Edgar Allan Woolf, with uncredited contributions from others, brought L. Frank Baums "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" to life on the big screen. The film starred Judy Garland as Dorothy Gale, Frank Morgan as Professor Marvel and the Wizard, Ray Bolger as the Scarecrow, Bert Lahr as the Cowardly Lion, Jack Haley as the Tin Woodman, Margaret Hamilton as the Wicked Witch of the West, and Billie Burke as Glinda, the Good Witch of the North. Charley Grapewin also featured in the cast.

In 1970, a year after Judy Garland's tragic death, Margaret Hamilton, Ray Bolger, and Jack Haley reunited for a promotional portrait for NBC's broadcast of "Oz." The film's introduction paid tribute to the late Judy Garland, acknowledging her significant contribution to the film's enduring legacy. Bert Lahr had passed away in 1967, marking the absence of another key member of the iconic cast.

Interestingly, despite Judy Garland playing the lead role of Dorothy Gale, Margaret Hamilton commanded a higher salary from the studio. This disparity in pay highlights the complex dynamics of the studio system and the factors that determined an actor's value, even in a film as beloved as "The Wizard of Oz."

The Judy Garland memorial garden and birthplace serve as lasting tributes to the actress, places where fans can remember and celebrate her life and career. And the annual Wizard of Oz festival remains a popular event, drawing fans from around the world to celebrate the film's magic and legacy.

Margaret Hamilton's son, Hamilton Meserve, provides a personal connection to the actress, offering insights into her life beyond her iconic role. He carries the torch of her legacy, ensuring that her contributions to the entertainment industry are remembered and appreciated.

In conclusion, the relationship between Judy Garland and Margaret Hamilton was a multifaceted one, defying the simple narrative of on-screen adversaries. It was a bond forged amidst the pressures and challenges of Hollywood, a testament to the power of human connection and the enduring legacy of "The Wizard of Oz." The complexities of their interactions, the rumored kindness, and the documented reunions paint a portrait far richer than the black-and-white depiction of good versus evil that defined their characters in the film.