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Ray Bolger (January 10, 1904 - January 15, 1987), full name Raymond Wallace Bulcao, was an actor who played the Scarecrow and Hunk the Farmhand in MGM's film The Wizard of Oz (1939).

Biography[]

Born in Dorchester, Massachusetts, Bolger displayed a natural inclination for performing. He began his entertainment career as a vaudeville dancer and honed his skills in various dance forms, including tap dancing, which would become one of his signature talents. His unique style, characterized by his elastic limbs and whimsical movements, set him apart as a performer with a distinct and captivating stage presence.

In the 1920s, Bolger made his Broadway debut in the musical comedy "On Your Toes," and he soon became a Broadway star, impressing audiences and critics with his exceptional dance abilities and comedic timing. His breakthrough came with the musical "By Jupiter" in 1942, where he showcased his talent for comedy and dance, earning rave reviews and establishing himself as a versatile entertainer.

However, it was his role as the Scarecrow in MGM's 1939 film adaptation of "The Wizard of Oz" that catapulted him to international fame. Bolger's physical agility and endearing portrayal of the lovable, hay-stuffed character endeared him to audiences of all ages. To create the unique movements for the Scarecrow, he designed his own special pair of shoes that allowed him to bend and twist his feet in remarkable ways, enhancing the character's charm and humor.

Despite his success as the Scarecrow, Bolger's career faced a few challenges in the following years. He found it difficult to escape the shadow of the beloved character, but he continued to work in various films and on stage, always showcasing his exceptional dancing skills and comedic talent.

In the 1940s and 1950s, Bolger returned to Broadway with a series of successful musicals, including "Where's Charley?" and "On Your Toes," earning him Tony Award nominations for his outstanding performances. He also made notable appearances on television, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile and accomplished entertainer.

Outside of his career, Ray Bolger was known for his warm and friendly personality, making him a cherished figure in the entertainment industry. He was also an advocate for the preservation of old films and was actively involved in promoting and supporting various charitable causes.

In 1985, Bolger received a special Tony Award for his contributions to the theatre and his lasting impact on the world of entertainment. He was also awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame to honor his achievements in the film industry.

Ray Bolger continued to perform and make occasional appearances until his health declined in the 1980s. Bolger would pass away on January 15, 1987, at the age of 83. Despite his passing, his performances in "The Wizard of Oz" and his contributions to the stage and screen continue to be celebrated and cherished by audiences worldwide. His legacy as a masterful dancer, comedian, and entertainer remains an enduring part of Hollywood and Broadway history.

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Trivia[]

  • He reprised the character for The Story of The Scarecrow of Oz album for Disney and other recordings for Caedmon Audio.
  • Judy Garland affectionately called him "My Scarecrow". 
  • He was the last surviving member of film's main cast (with exception to Buddy Ebsen, whose visual performance was deleted from the final cut) in comparison to a few Munchkins who lived through the early 21st century.
  • He was originally cast as the Tin Man, but felt himself better suited to the Scarecrow role. He campaigned vigorously with producer Mervyn LeRoy and studio head Louis B. Mayer for a switch in roles, and soon won the part he coveted.
    • (Buddy Ebsen, was originally intended as the Scarecrow but he didn't mind and took the Tin Man role instead with an unfortunate outcome.)

Over the course of his career, Bolger shared other credits with other Oz actors where he played:

Gallery[]


References[]

  • John Fricke, Jay Scarfone, William Stillman. The Wizard of Oz: The Official 50th Anniversary Pictorial History. Warner Books, 1989.
  • Holly Van Leuven. Ray Bolger: More Than a Scarecrow. Oxford University Press, 2019.

External Links[]

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