The Challenging Journey Behind The Wizard of Oz: From Stifling Heat to Toxic Makeup

🔥The Wizard of Oz set was incredibly hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit, causing exhaustion and health issues for the cast and crew.

💄The makeup used in The Wizard of Oz, such as copper paint and aluminum powder, caused adverse reactions and long-term health effects for some performers.

👹Margaret Hamilton, who played the Wicked Witch, suffered severe burns from a pyrotechnics accident during filming.

🤖Buddy Ebsen, initially cast as the Tin Man, had a severe reaction to the aluminum powder used in his makeup, leading to hospitalization.

🦁Bert Lahr, who portrayed the Cowardly Lion, faced challenges with his bulky and heavy costume, causing discomfort and limiting mobility.

How did Margaret Hamilton get burned on the set of The Wizard of Oz?

—Margaret Hamilton, who played the Wicked Witch, suffered severe burns when a pyrotechnics accident caused her to be engulfed in flames.

What were the challenges faced by the actors in The Wizard of Oz?

—The actors faced extreme heat on set, with temperatures often surpassing 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Some also experienced adverse reactions and injuries due to the makeup and costumes.

Which actor had a severe reaction to their makeup?

—Buddy Ebsen, initially cast as the Tin Man, had a severe reaction to the aluminum powder used in his makeup, leading to hospitalization.

Did any of the actors suffer any long-term health effects from their roles in The Wizard of Oz?

—Margaret Hamilton, who played the Wicked Witch, later developed Alzheimer's, a condition that has been linked to copper poisoning, which she potentially experienced from the makeup used in the film.

Despite the challenges faced during production, how was The Wizard of Oz received?

—Despite the difficulties during filming, The Wizard of Oz became an iconic classic and the most-watched film of all time according to the Library of Congress.

00:00The making of The Wizard of Oz was filled with challenges, from extreme heat on set to toxic makeup causing injuries.

10:39Margaret Hamilton, who played the Wicked Witch, suffered severe burns during a pyrotechnics accident.

10:57Buddy Ebsen and Jack Haley, who portrayed the Tin Man, had adverse reactions to their metallic makeup.

11:30Bert Lahr, the Cowardly Lion, endured a heavy and uncomfortable costume.

12:31Ray Bolger, the Scarecrow, wore a mask that left permanent grooves on his face.