MGM’s Dilemma in Casting Dorothy: Judy Garland vs. Shirley Temple

The casting of the iconic character Dorothy in MGM's landmark The Wizard of Oz was a pivotal moment in the studio's history. Two of Hollywood's most recognizable child stars, Judy Garland and Shirley Temple, were considered for the role, leading to a fascinating bidding war over vocal talent and star power in the early 1930s.

The Wiggle and the Voice: A Competition

Producer Mervyn LeRoy and associate producer/lyricist Arthur Freed were in full agreement that Judy Garland should play the part from the very beginning. Their decision was not one of activism but rather one based heavily on sound. As per reports, the two filmmakers were impressed with Garland's unusually mature and strong vocal talent, which was a critical factor in securing the role. However, the studio's main distributor, Schenck of Loews Inc., was adamant about employing Shirley Temple, believing her to be a more reliable box-office draw.

Shirley Temple: The Hit of the Decade

By this point in the 1930s, Shirley Temple was a household name. Known for her "shoes" and her unparalleled ability to captivate audiences with her innocent charm and ability to "do the wiggle", Temple was a guarantee for success with young and adult audiences alike. In 1934, at the young age of 5, Song of the South became Temple's first feature film, quickly followed by the massive hit Stand Up and Cheer. Her star status was firmly established, and the studio's business interests naturally inclined towards her.

Judy Garland: The Surprising Choice

Judith Louisa Garland's rise to fame was a bit different. As a child actress, she was primarily in films for the Laemmle studio, and her enterprising and, as some have said, pushy father, Frankie Garland, helped arrange her loan to MGM. However, despite her growing popularity, Garland was not the first option. Despite the initial inclination towards Temple, MGM was unable to negotiate a deal with Loews Inc. for the loan of Temple, the reasons for which are somewhat obscured in history.

When Shirley Temple became an unattainable option, MGM turned to their own stable: Judy Garland. While Garland was not the first choice, her distinctive and powerful voice set her apart, leading to a compromise where she could fulfill the dream of many and also bring a unique appeal to the character of Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz.

The Significance of the Cast

The choice between Judy Garland and Shirley Temple had far-reaching consequences for both young actresses and the film industry at large. The difference in vocal talent between the two presented a critical factor in storytelling and character development. Garland's Bellidge voice proved ideal for Dorothy's journey, a harsh and challenging one that required a strong and commanding voice to articulate the emotion of the character. Through her powerful and versatile voice, Garland was able to bring Dorothy to life — a character that resonates with audiences to this day.

MGM and Success: Legacy of the Studio

MGM's choice to go with Judy Garland rather than Shirley Temple was a pragmatic decision that ended up being a stroke of brilliance. In the end, the studio won the lottery with Garland, whose performance in The Wizard of Oz not only solidified her place in entertainment history but also enriched the L. Frank Baum character with an enduring appeal that transcends social and cultural barriers. Shirley Temple, although not chosen for this particular project, continued to light up the screen with her indomitable spirit, leaving an unforgettable mark on the world of entertainment.

Conclusion: Reflections and Legacy

From the conflicting approaches of rival studios to the successful negotiations and final decision, the choice to cast Judy Garland in The Wizard of Oz marked a significant event in the history of film. It highlighted the importance of vocal talent in the storytelling process and demonstrated how strategic decisions made in the early stages can shape the eventual legacy of a film and the careers of the actors involved.

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MGM Dorothy Judy Garland Shirley Temple motion pictures