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John Joseph Haley (August 10, 1897 - June 6, 1979), was the actor who played the part of the Tin Man and Hickory in MGM's 1939 film, The Wizard of Oz.  

Biography[]

Haley's show business career began in the 1920s as a vaudeville performer. He showcased his talents as a song-and-dance man, gaining recognition for his charming personality and comedic flair. His performances in vaudeville acts led to opportunities in Broadway musicals and eventually to Hollywood.

In 1933, Jack Haley made his film debut in "Broadway Highlights," and he continued to appear in various supporting roles in films throughout the 1930s. While he was recognized for his talent, he had yet to find a breakthrough role that would elevate him to stardom.

Everything changed in 1939 when he was cast as the Tin Man, a character in search of a heart, in "The Wizard of Oz." The film, based on L. Frank Baum's classic novel, became an instant hit and has since become one of the most beloved and iconic movies in cinematic history. As the Tin Man, Haley brought a blend of endearing vulnerability and delightful humor to the character, earning the admiration of audiences worldwide.

One of the challenges Haley faced during the filming of "The Wizard of Oz" was the discomfort of his Tin Man costume, which was made of aluminum powder and required a two-hour makeup application process. Despite the physical strain, Haley's performance as the Tin Man remains a timeless contribution to the magic of the film.

Following his success in "The Wizard of Oz," Jack Haley continued to work in Hollywood, appearing in a range of films, including comedies and musicals. He also demonstrated his versatility by taking on dramatic roles, showcasing his acting range beyond his comedic roots.

During World War II, Haley actively supported the war effort by entertaining troops overseas as part of the United Service Organizations (USO). He brought joy and laughter to servicemen during difficult times and earned the admiration of many for his dedication to the cause.

In addition to his film career, Haley also made numerous television appearances, including guest roles on popular shows of the time. Haley had previously played with Oz castmate Judy Garland in Pigskin Parade (1936), and with Bert Lahr in Mr. Broadway (1933). He would appear with Margaret Hamilton in George White's Scandals (1945) and with Clara Blandick in People are Funny (1946).

Off-screen, Jack Haley was known for his amiable personality and his ability to get along with his co-stars and colleagues. He was married twice, first to Florence McFadden and later to Margaret O'Sullivan. In 1974, Haley's son, Jack Haley Jr., married Garland's daughter, Liza Minelli. They divorced five years later. Haley's final television apearance was alongside Ray Bolger at the 1979 Oscars

Tragically, Jack Haley's life was cut short when he passed away on June 6, 1979, at the age of 81, due to a heart attack. In tears, Ray Bolger said in his eulogy  "Jack, it's going to be very lonely on that Yellow Brick Road now."

Role as the Tin Man[]

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Jack Haley putting on the Tin Man makeup

An established song-and-dance man, Haley was loaned to the MGM studio by his contract-holder, 20th Century Fox, on 4 November 1938. Haley replaced Buddy Ebsen, the actor who originally filled the Tin Man role, when Ebsen was incapacitated. Haley was not informed about Ebsen's work-related health problem or its cause.


Yet Haley, in turn, suffered an eye infection from the makeup, and missed several days of shooting to lie in a dark room recovering. His 40-pound costume prevented him from sitting down when he wore it; he had a leaning board that provided some minimal relief from fatigue.

In the Kansas sequence that opens the film, Haley's character Hickory is mentioned as "tinkering" with a "contraption." Then Hickory says that people will "erect a statue to me in this town." In an early draft of the script, Hickory was shown trying to invent an anti-cyclone machine. This business was later cut, though traces of the idea survive in the surrounding material.

Video[]

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"Death on the Nile" winning the Oscar® for Costume Design


Gallery[]

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