Challenges Faced by Judy Garland: Obstacles and Turning Points

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Judy Garland's life and career.

Judy Garland was a celebrated American actress and singer, famous for her powerful voice and emotional performances. She achieved international stardom as Dorothy Gale in The Wizard of Oz (1939), solidifying her place as a Hollywood icon. Garland's talents spanned acting, singing, and vaudeville, showcasing her versatility and endearing her to audiences worldwide. She remains a significant figure in entertainment history.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Legacy & Impact

November 16, 1935: Father's Hospitalization

On November 16, 1935, while preparing for a radio performance, 13-year-old Judy Garland learned that her father had been hospitalized with meningitis and his condition had worsened.

July 1947: First Suicide Attempt

In July 1947, during the filming of 'The Pirate', Judy Garland made her first suicide attempt by cutting her wrist with a broken glass and was placed in a private sanatorium.

July 18, 1948: Suspension from MGM

On July 18, 1948, Judy Garland was suspended by MGM after missing several shooting days due to a combination of prescription drugs, alcohol, and migraine headaches. She was replaced by Ginger Rogers in 'The Barkleys of Broadway'.

May 10, 1949: Firing from 'Annie Get Your Gun'

On May 10, 1949, Judy Garland was fired from 'Annie Get Your Gun' due to her behavior, lack of effort, and health issues. She was replaced by Betty Hutton.

June 17, 1950: Suspension from 'Royal Wedding'

On June 17, 1950, Judy Garland's contract was suspended after failing to report to the set of 'Royal Wedding' on multiple occasions. She was replaced by Jane Powell.

November 1959: Hospitalization for Acute Hepatitis

In November 1959, Judy Garland was hospitalized after being diagnosed with acute hepatitis, leading to fluid drainage from her body.

January 1960: Release from Hospital

In January 1960, Judy Garland was released from the hospital in weak condition after treatment for acute hepatitis. Doctors gave her a grim prognosis, suggesting she had limited time to live and might never sing again.

1961: Carnegie Hall Performance

In 1961, Julia Molony observed that Judy Garland's voice, while still rich with emotion, showed signs of wear from years of disappointment and hard living during her performance at Carnegie Hall.

1963: Filed for Divorce from Sidney Luft

In 1963, Judy Garland sued Sidney Luft for divorce, citing mental cruelty and alleging physical abuse.

1964: Australian Tour

In 1964, Judy Garland's tour of Australia ended badly; while initial Sydney concerts were successful, a delayed and poorly received performance in Melbourne led to negative press.

1964: Cancellation of The Judy Garland Show

In 1964, despite critical praise and Emmy nominations, "The Judy Garland Show" was canceled after 26 episodes due to competition and other factors.

1966: Parted Ways with Fields and Begelman

By the fall of 1966, Judy Garland had parted ways with agents Freddie Fields and David Begelman due to mismanagement of her finances and embezzlement of her earnings.

1966: Hollywood Palace Guest Appearance Ended

In 1966, problems with Judy Garland's behavior ended her Hollywood Palace guest appearances.

February 1967: Cast in Valley of the Dolls

In February 1967, Judy Garland was cast as Helen Lawson in "Valley of the Dolls" by 20th Century Fox, but faced mistreatment and was ultimately dismissed from the film.

1969: Death by Accidental Overdose

In 1969, Judy Garland died at the age of 47 from an accidental barbiturate overdose, after struggling with substance use disorder.

1969: NYT Obituary on Garland

In 1969, The New York Times obituarist noted that Judy Garland brought her well-publicized emotional breakdowns and career challenges onto the stage, and that her voice had changed with age.