Mary William Ethelbert Appleton Burke, or “Billie” for short, began acting professionally in the early 20th century, but modern audiences primarily know her as Glinda the Good Witch of the North in the much-beloved film, The Wizard of Oz. At the outset of her career, Billie appeared mostly on the Broadway stage. … Read more
As far back as I can remember, I have loved Oz. The colors, the songs, Toto. I probably wore through several VHS tapes and put our DVD through its paces as a kid. I still remember the Tide commercial that was at the beginning of our VHS where kids were making costumes … Read more
Regardless of how many films the cast members of The Wizard of Oz were in, they’re most often best remembered from their roles in this glorious film. And John Joseph “Jack” Haley who played both the Tin Man and the Kansas farmworker, Hickory, is no exception. Long before being cast as the … Read more
Did you know that The Alexander Doll Company (which has been around since 1923) has created collectible dolls of nearly EVERY SINGLE CHARACTER in the original movie The Wizard of Oz? Yep, that’s a lot of dolls over the years, including Winkie Guards, Flying Monkeys, Munchkins, and, of course, Dorothy, The Wizard, … Read more
The Wizard of Oz’ Ruby Red Slippers worn by Judy Garland in 1939 have been donated to the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures. It was recently announced that a group of “angel donors”, led by Leonardo DiCaprio and including legendary director Steven Spielberg, have purchased an iconic pair of ruby slippers from … Read more
Most would agree that the world’s most famous witch is the Wicked Witch of the West played by Margaret Hamilton in the movie. But Hamilton didn’t launch her acting career as the Wicked Witch of the West. Seven years before she was offered the role that would forever define her powerful public … Read more
You absolutely love The Wizard of Oz. When you see products with characters or symbols from the movie on them your heart goes pitter, patter. Well, be still your foolish heart, because here are some gift ideas that are perfect for all you big fans of The Wizard of Oz. Let’s begin … Read more
The Wizard of Oz was and still is a wonder to behold. Great story, effects, costumes, sets, and actors. Everyone adores the singular sensation, Judy Garland, in her lead role as Dorothy. But how many filmgoers remember that a number of the actors in The Wizard of Oz played more than one … Read more
It was just a matter of time when these two icons of icons would meet face-to-face. Why not, Mr. Potato Head has been around since the toy was invented and developed by George Lerner in 1949. Mr. Potato Head’s fame grew larger when it became the first toy ever to be advertised … Read more
There were a number of scary characters and moments in The Wizard of Oz. But none more frightening, especially for young audiences, than the flying monkeys. They drop from the sky to swoop down and snatch their terrified prey. For what evil purpose? To deliver Dorothy to the scariest character in the … Read more
The Wizard of Oz is chock-full of good, no make that, great characters. First and foremost, there is Dorothy, the Cowardly Lion, the Tin Man, and the Scarecrow. Then, there is the Great and Powerful Oz and the Munchkins. And who can forget Auntie Em, Uncle Henry, and the farmhands, Hunk, Zeke, … Read more
Judy Garland had an illustrious career that spanned virtually her entire life. She may have been known the world over for her incredible talents and achievements on stage, screen, and television, but she will be forever remembered for her role as Dorothy in one of the most memorable movies of all time … Read more