Judy Garland, one of Hollywood’s most iconic figures, was loved by millions worldwide for her talent, charm, and unforgettable performances. Known best for her role in The Wizard of Oz, Garland’s life behind the scenes was filled with struggles and hardships that cast a shadow over her fame. From a young age, she faced the dark side of Hollywood—exploitation, manipulation, and addiction. As June 22 marks the 55th anniversary of her death, we remember Garland not only as a star but as a symbol of the industry’s pressures and the personal toll they take.

A Star Is Born: Judy Garland’s Early Life and Rise to Fame

Born Frances Ethel Gumm in 1922, Judy Garland grew up in a complicated family environment. Her parents’ troubled marriage and her father’s rumored indiscretions led the family to relocate to California in search of a fresh start. From a young age, Garland was thrust into the entertainment world by her ambitious mother, who was determined to make her daughters stars.

At the age of three, Garland began performing in her family’s small theater. Her mother pushed her relentlessly, often at the expense of Garland’s childhood. Her big break came when she was 13 and signed a contract with MGM, one of the most prominent studios at the time. This would mark the beginning of a career filled with both incredible success and profound personal struggles.

The Toll of Fame: Forced Into a Life of Drug Dependency

Under the strict control of MGM, Judy Garland faced immense pressure to maintain a demanding work schedule. To keep up, she was given amphetamines to stay awake and sedatives to help her sleep. This introduction to drugs at such a young age would lead to a lifelong battle with addiction. By the time Garland was 15, she was dependent on these stimulants and sedatives, setting a dangerous precedent for the years that followed.

During the filming of The Wizard of Oz, the studio closely monitored Garland’s appearance, enforcing strict diets and imposing demeaning comments about her weight. Directors even forbade her from drinking a milkshake during one scene, instructing her only to pretend due to the strict dietary control imposed by MGM. This obsession with her physical appearance fueled Garland’s insecurities, which haunted her throughout her life.

A Career of Highs and Lows: From Hollywood Stardom to Personal Struggles

Garland’s portrayal of Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz cemented her status as a Hollywood star. Her performances in Meet Me in St. Louis and Easter Parade showcased her remarkable talent and charisma, and audiences adored her. Yet, despite her success, Garland’s mental and physical health continued to deteriorate under the pressures of fame and substance dependency.

Her struggles with addiction led to increasing absences on set, forcing MGM to suspend her multiple times before ultimately terminating her contract in 1950 after 15 years of service. By then, the toll on her mental health was evident. The once-innocent girl from The Wizard of Oz was now grappling with severe addiction and psychological trauma, and her career was plagued by instability.

Exploitation in Hollywood: Harassment and Misuse of Power

Throughout her career, Garland faced harassment from powerful men in Hollywood, including MGM founder Louis B. Mayer. Often compared to later scandals involving figures like Harvey Weinstein, Mayer was known for taking advantage of actresses, and Garland was no exception. He reportedly subjected her to unwanted advances and ridiculed her appearance, even calling her “hunchback” in front of the cast and crew.

In her autobiography, Garland’s second husband revealed that male actors would harass her on set, even lifting her skirt inappropriately. This toxic environment left her feeling vulnerable and objectified. Yet, Garland persisted, continuing to pursue her passion for performing, even as the industry’s dark side eroded her mental and emotional well-being.

Personal Relationships and Heartbreak: A Life of Tragic Love

Garland’s romantic relationships were as turbulent as her career. At 18, she fell in love with musician David Rose and became pregnant. However, due to industry pressures, Garland’s mother and MGM forced her to have an abortion to avoid negative publicity. The couple married in 1941 but divorced two years later.

Over the years, Garland went through five marriages, each filled with its own difficulties. Her second husband, director Vincent Minnelli, left her after a tumultuous marriage, and her third husband, Sidney Luft, was known for his abusive behavior. Her final husband, Mickey Deans, saw her as an opportunity to profit from her fame, reportedly pushing her to perform despite her declining health. Garland’s personal life was marked by heartbreak, betrayal, and suffering, and none of her marriages brought her the stability she so desperately needed.

The Final Years: Financial Struggles and Legacy

Despite earning significant sums from her films and concerts, Garland faced financial troubles in her later years. She was often exploited by managers and signed unfavorable contracts that left her with little income. Her daughters, with the help of singer Frank Sinatra, eventually paid off Garland’s debts after her death, highlighting the impact of industry exploitation on her finances.

Even in her later years, Garland remained dedicated to her craft, performing whenever she could to support herself and her children. Her legacy lives on in the talents of her children, particularly Liza Minnelli, who went on to become an Oscar-winning actress. Minnelli has spoken openly about her mother’s struggles, describing Garland’s life as a constant struggle between fame and happiness.

Judy Garland’s Enduring Influence on Hollywood and Pop Culture

Though her life was filled with hardships, Judy Garland’s impact on the entertainment industry is undeniable. Her voice, talent, and emotional depth captivated audiences and continue to inspire performers today. Garland’s story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of fame, but it also stands as a testament to her resilience, strength, and talent.

Her story reminds us of the often-hidden costs of stardom and the ways in which the industry can fail to protect its brightest talents. Garland’s influence extends beyond her films; she opened the door for discussions about mental health, addiction, and the pressures of Hollywood, helping future generations understand the importance of support and compassion in the entertainment world.

Conclusion: Remembering Judy Garland’s Legacy and the Price of Stardom

Judy Garland’s life was a mix of remarkable achievements and profound tragedy. Her journey through fame, addiction, exploitation, and love paints a complex portrait of a woman who gave everything to her craft. Despite facing unimaginable struggles, Garland left behind a legacy that continues to resonate with fans and artists alike. Her life reminds us of the human cost behind the glamour of Hollywood and the importance of empathy for those who live under its spotlight. Today, we honor Judy Garland not just for her performances but for her bravery and resilience in the face of an industry that took more than it gave.