Judy Garland was a highly celebrated American actress and singer who achieved global recognition for her work in film, music, and live performances. Her versatility was praised by critics, earning her awards such as a Golden Globe, a Special Tony Award, and an Academy Juvenile Award. Notably, she was the first woman to receive the Grammy Award for Album of the Year for her 1961 live album "Judy at Carnegie Hall."
June 10, 1922: Birth of Judy Garland
Judy Garland was born Frances Ethel Gumm on June 10, 1922, in Grand Rapids, Minnesota.
June 1926: Gumm Family Relocates to Lancaster, California
The Gumm family moved to Lancaster, California, in June 1926. Frank Gumm bought and operated a theater, and Ethel Gumm began managing their daughters' careers.
1928: Gumm Sisters Enroll in Dance School
The Gumm Sisters enrolled in Ethel Meglin's dance school in 1928 and joined the Meglin Kiddies dance troupe.
1929: Film Debut with the Meglin Kiddies
The Gumm Sisters made their film debut in "The Big Revue" with the Meglin Kiddies in 1929.
1934: Performing as "The Gumm Sisters" in Chicago
By 1934, the Gumm Sisters were touring the vaudeville circuit. While performing at the Oriental Theater in Chicago with George Jessel, Jessel encouraged the group to change their name.
1934: Frances Gumm Becomes Judy Garland
Inspired by a popular Hoagy Carmichael song, Frances Gumm changed her name to "Judy" shortly after the Gumm Sisters became the Garland Sisters in 1934.
1934: Possible Origin of the Name "Garland"
The year 1934 saw the release of the film "Twentieth Century", which featured a character named Lily Garland. This name is thought to be one of the possible origins for the stage name "Garland", adopted by the Gumm Sisters.
August 1935: The Garland Sisters Disband
The Garland Sisters disbanded in August 1935, when Mary Jane "Suzanne" Garland married Lee Kahn.
September 1935: Judy Garland Signs with MGM
After an impromptu audition at Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios, Judy Garland signed a contract with MGM in September 1935.
November 16, 1935: Frank Gumm's Deteriorating Health
Judy Garland's father, Frank Gumm, was hospitalized with meningitis on November 16, 1935.
1935: Death of Francis "Frank" Avent Gumm
Francis "Frank" Avent Gumm, Judy Garland's father, passed away in 1935.
1935: Final On-Screen Appearance as the Gumm Sisters
The Gumm Sisters made their final on-screen appearance in an MGM Technicolor short entitled "La Fiesta de Santa Barbara" in 1935.
1936: Early Career and "Every Sunday"
In 1936, a young Judy Garland's professional rendition of "Zing! Went the Strings of My Heart" for the Shell Chateau Hour marked the start of this song becoming a staple in her concerts. The same year, she was cast alongside Deanna Durbin in the musical short "Every Sunday", a film highlighting their contrasting vocal styles and serving as a screen test for the two rising stars.
1937: Garland and Rooney's First Pairing
Judy Garland and Mickey Rooney shared the screen for the first time in 1937's "Thoroughbreds Don't Cry", marking the beginning of their successful on-screen partnership.
1937: Garland Captivates with "You Made Me Love You"
Judy Garland caught the eye of studio executives in 1937 with her heartfelt rendition of "You Made Me Love You (I Didn't Want to Do It)" at Clark Gable's birthday party. This performance was so well received that she reprised it in the 1937 all-star film "Broadway Melody of 1938", singing to Gable's photograph.
1937: Beginning of Judy Garland's "Innocent Years"
The Huffington Post writer Joan E. Dowlin identified the period between 1937 and 1945 as Judy Garland's "innocent years," characterized by a vibrant and exuberant vocal style. Her voice had a distinct, rich, and sweet quality that captivated audiences.
1937: Original A Star is Born Release
This year marks the release of the original "A Star is Born," which would later be remade starring Judy Garland in 1954.
October 13, 1938: Filming Begins for "The Wizard of Oz"
On October 13, 1938, Judy Garland stepped onto the set to begin filming "The Wizard of Oz," embarking on a journey to create one of the most beloved films of all time.
1938: Garland's Breakthrough in "Broadway Melody of 1938"
Judy Garland's performance of "You Made Me Love You" in the 1938 film "Broadway Melody of 1938" served as her breakthrough moment, captivating audiences and solidifying her presence in Hollywood.
1938: Joining the "Hardy Family" Films
In 1938, Judy Garland joined the cast of the popular "Hardy Family" film series with "Love Finds Andy Hardy", sharing the screen with Mickey Rooney.
1938: Garland Cast as Dorothy in "The Wizard of Oz"
At sixteen years old, Judy Garland landed the iconic role of Dorothy Gale in the 1938 filming of "The Wizard of Oz", a movie adaptation of L. Frank Baum's 1900 children's book.
March 16, 1939: Wrapping Up "The Wizard of Oz"
After months of filming, "The Wizard of Oz" wrapped up production on March 16, 1939, marking the end of an era and the beginning of a cinematic legacy.
1939: The Premiere of "The Wizard of Oz"
1939 saw the premiere of "The Wizard of Oz," starring Judy Garland as Dorothy Gale, a role that would forever be associated with her legacy.
1939: Appearance in The Wizard of Oz
In 1939, Judy Garland appeared in the film "The Wizard of Oz".
1939: Garland Wins Academy Juvenile Award
In 1939, Judy Garland received a special Academy Juvenile Award, recognizing her outstanding performances in films that year, including "The Wizard of Oz" and "Babes in Arms".
1939: The Birth of a Dynamic Duo: "Babes in Arms"
Judy Garland and Mickey Rooney took center stage as lead actors in the 1939 musical "Babes in Arms", solidifying their status as a beloved on-screen duo and leading to a series of successful collaborations.
1940: Garland Takes on Adult Roles
Judy Garland transitioned into more mature roles in 1940, starring in films like "Andy Hardy Meets Debutante," "Strike Up the Band," and "Little Nellie Kelly," the latter showcasing her versatility with a dual mother-daughter role.
1940: Continuing the "Hardy Family" Legacy
Judy Garland and Mickey Rooney continued their on-screen partnership in 1940 with "Andy Hardy Meets Debutante", further cementing their popularity with audiences.
1940: Romance and Heartbreak with Artie Shaw
In 1940, Judy Garland experienced a whirlwind romance with bandleader Artie Shaw, a relationship that brought her both joy and heartbreak when he eloped with Lana Turner.
July 27, 1941: Garland's Marriage to David Rose
On July 27, 1941, Judy Garland married musician David Rose in what the media dubbed "a true rarity".
1941: First Abortion
In 1941, under pressure from her mother and studio executives, Judy Garland underwent an abortion while pregnant with David Rose's child.
1941: Garland and Rooney's Final "Hardy Family" Film
Judy Garland and Mickey Rooney's final appearance together in the "Hardy Family" series, "Life Begins for Andy Hardy", was released in 1941, marking the end of an era for the iconic duo.
1942: Sharing the Screen with Gene Kelly
Judy Garland starred alongside Gene Kelly in his debut film appearance in 1942's "For Me and My Gal," marking another milestone in her career.
1943: A Glamour Transformation in "Presenting Lily Mars"
Judy Garland underwent a glamour makeover for her role in the 1943 film "Presenting Lily Mars," showcasing a more mature and sophisticated look.
1943: Second Abortion
Judy Garland underwent a second abortion in 1943, during a time when she was involved with Tyrone Power.
April 1944: Reception for Brigadier General Benjamin O. Davis Sr.
In April 1944, Judy Garland escorted Brigadier General Benjamin O. Davis Sr., the first Black general in the U.S. military, to a reception in his honor at the home of Ira Gershwin.
1944: Appearance in Meet Me in St. Louis
Judy Garland starred in "Meet Me in St. Louis" in 1944.
1944: Triumph and Timeless Classics in "Meet Me in St. Louis"
The year 1944 saw the release of "Meet Me in St. Louis," one of Judy Garland's most celebrated films. This movie gave Garland the platform to introduce three timeless standards: "The Trolley Song," "The Boy Next Door," and "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas." The film also marked a turning point as she embraced a more attractive leading lady persona.
1944: Divorce from David Rose
After a trial separation in January 1943, Judy Garland and David Rose finalized their divorce in 1944, marking the end of their marriage.
June 15, 1945: Garland Marries Vincente Minnelli
On June 15, 1945, Judy Garland married director Vincente Minnelli, following a period of both collaboration and initial disagreements during the filming of "Meet Me in St. Louis".
1945: End of Judy Garland's "Innocent Years"
By 1945, the period that writer Joan E. Dowlin classified as Judy Garland's "innocent years" drew to a close. This era showcased Garland's dynamic vocal range and her ability to adapt to different musical styles, from tender ballads to humorous duets.
1945: The Clock Film Release
In 1945, Judy Garland starred in "The Clock," her first straight dramatic film, alongside Robert Walker. While the film was critically acclaimed and profitable, audiences were accustomed to seeing her sing.
1945: A Brief Affair with Orson Welles
Judy Garland and Orson Welles, then married to Rita Hayworth, had a short-lived affair in early 1945, though they managed to maintain a cordial relationship afterward.
March 12, 1946: Birth of Liza Minnelli
Judy Garland and Vincente Minnelli welcomed their daughter, Liza Minnelli, into the world on March 12, 1946.
1946: Notable Film Appearances
Garland appeared in notable films in 1946, including "The Harvey Girls," where she introduced the Oscar-winning song "On the Atchison, Topeka and the Santa Fe," and "Till the Clouds Roll By."
1946: Appearance in The Harvey Girls
Judy Garland appeared in the film "The Harvey Girls" in 1946.
July 1947: Nervous Breakdown and Suicide Attempt
While filming "The Pirate" in 1947, Garland suffered a nervous breakdown and was admitted to a sanatorium. In July 1947, she made her first suicide attempt.
September 1947: Joining the Committee for the First Amendment
Judy Garland joined the Committee for the First Amendment in September 1947. The committee, formed by Hollywood celebrities, aimed to support the Hollywood Ten during the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) hearings and protect the civil liberties of those accused.
October 26, 1947: "Hollywood Fights Back" Broadcast
On October 26, 1947, Judy Garland participated in "Hollywood Fights Back," an all-star radio broadcast organized to challenge the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) hearings. During the broadcast, she urged listeners to voice their opposition to HUAC's actions.
May 1948: Release of "The Pirate" and "Easter Parade"
May 1948 saw the release of "The Pirate," which marked Garland's first film that didn't turn a profit since "The Wizard of Oz." However, she then co-starred with Fred Astaire in "Easter Parade" (1948), which became a box-office hit.
July 18, 1948: Suspension from "The Barkleys of Broadway"
Garland's struggles with prescription and illicit drugs, combined with health issues, led to her suspension from the film "The Barkleys of Broadway" on July 18, 1948. Ginger Rogers replaced her in the film.
1948: Guest Appearance in "Words and Music" and Return to MGM
In 1948, Garland made a guest appearance in "Words and Music" alongside Mickey Rooney. Following a period of recovery, she returned to MGM in the fall of 1948 to star in "In the Good Old Summertime" (1949).
1948: Appearance in Easter Parade
In 1948, Judy Garland starred in the film "Easter Parade".
May 10, 1949: Dismissal from "Annie Get Your Gun" and Hospitalization
Garland faced challenges during the filming of "Annie Get Your Gun" in 1949, including clashes with director Busby Berkeley and ongoing health struggles. On May 10, 1949, she was dismissed from the production and subsequently hospitalized for treatment.
1949: Success of "In the Good Old Summertime"
"In the Good Old Summertime," released in 1949, achieved significant box-office success. Notably, Garland's daughter, Liza, made her film debut in this movie.
1949: Casting in "Summer Stock"
Following her recovery, Garland returned to Los Angeles in 1949 and was cast opposite Gene Kelly in "Summer Stock" (1950).
June 17, 1950: Suspension from "Royal Wedding" and Departure from MGM
Garland was originally cast in "Royal Wedding" but was suspended from the production on June 17, 1950, due to her ongoing struggles. This event led to her departure from MGM after 15 years.
September 1950: End of Contract with MGM
Garland's contract with MGM officially ended in September 1950 after a series of personal and professional challenges.
October 11, 1950: Appearance on Bing Crosby's Radio Show
On October 11, 1950, Garland appeared on Bing Crosby's radio show, marking a pivotal moment in her career resurgence.
1950: Completion and Release of "Summer Stock"
Garland's struggles with weight and reliance on medication resurfaced during the filming of "Summer Stock." Despite delays, the film, including her memorable performance of "Get Happy," was completed and released in 1950, achieving commercial success.
1950: Release from MGM Contract and Appearance in Summer Stock
In 1950, after 15 years, Judy Garland was released from her contract with MGM amid personal struggles. The same year, she appeared in the film "Summer Stock".
1950: Appearances on "The Bing Crosby – Chesterfield Show" and European Tour
Throughout the 1950–51 season, Garland made eight appearances on "The Bing Crosby – Chesterfield Show," which helped revitalize her career. She followed this with a successful four-month concert tour in Europe.
October 1951: Triumphant Return to Broadway and Tony Award
In October 1951, Garland's engagement at the Palace Theatre in Manhattan was a resounding success, breaking records and solidifying her comeback. Her contribution to vaudeville earned her a Special Tony Award.
1951: Concert Tour of Britain and Ireland
Garland embarked on a four-month concert tour of Britain and Ireland in 1951, performing to sold-out crowds and incorporating tributes to Al Jolson into her shows.
1951: Divorce from Vincente Minnelli
Judy Garland and Vincente Minnelli's marriage ended in divorce in 1951.
1951: Financial and Tax Challenges Emerge
Garland faced financial difficulties in 1951, including issues with the Internal Revenue Service related to unpaid taxes. These challenges highlighted the financial complexities and pressures she navigated throughout her career.
June 8, 1952: Marriage to Sidney Luft
Garland married Sidney Luft, her tour manager and producer, on June 8, 1952, in Hollister, California.
November 21, 1952: Birth of Daughter Lorna Luft
Garland gave birth to her daughter, Lorna Luft, on November 21, 1952. Lorna Luft would later follow in her mother's footsteps, pursuing a career in acting and singing.
1952: Financial Pressures Continue
The year 1952 marked a continuation of financial strains for Judy Garland, including ongoing issues with tax payments. These challenges likely influenced her decisions and priorities in subsequent years.
1953: Death of Ethel Marion Gumm
Ethel Marion Gumm, Judy Garland's mother, passed away in 1953.
March 17, 1954: A Star is Born Finishes Filming
On March 17, 1954, principal photography for "A Star is Born" wrapped up. The filming process encountered delays due to cost overruns and disagreements with Warner Bros. head Jack L. Warner, reflecting some of the challenges faced during production.
September 29, 1954: Pantages Theatre Premiere of A Star Is Born
On September 29, 1954, the Pantages Theatre in Hollywood premiered "A Star is Born".
1954: Academy Award Nomination for A Star is Born
Judy Garland received an Academy Award nomination for her performance in the musical drama "A Star is Born" in 1954.
1954: A Star is Born Release and Production
In 1954, Judy Garland starred in the Warner Bros. remake of "A Star is Born" alongside James Mason. Produced by her and then-husband Sidney Luft's company, Transcona Enterprises, the film involved significant dedication from Garland.
1954: Academy Award Nomination and Critical Acclaim
In 1954, Judy Garland received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for her role in "A Star is Born." Although she was widely expected to win, the award ultimately went to Grace Kelly. However, Garland's performance received high praise and is considered iconic in film history.
March 29, 1955: Birth of Son Joey Luft
On March 29, 1955, Garland gave birth to her son, Joey Luft.
1955: Early Stance on Weekly Television Series
Back in 1955, Judy Garland expressed her reluctance to commit to a weekly television series. However, circumstances and opportunities shifted over time, leading her to reconsider and eventually embrace the format.
1956: Las Vegas Residency and Palace Theatre Return
Garland's career reached new heights in 1956. She secured a highly successful residency in Las Vegas, becoming the highest-paid entertainer at the time. Adding to her achievements, she returned to the Palace Theatre, where she had previously triumphed, to further critical acclaim.
1956: Early Divorce Filing from Sidney Luft
Judy Garland had previously attempted to divorce Sidney Luft as early as 1956; however, they reconciled each time.
November 1959: Hospitalization and Health Challenges
In November 1959, Judy Garland faced a serious health challenge when she was hospitalized and diagnosed with acute hepatitis. This marked the beginning of a difficult period for her, as she navigated the physical and emotional toll of her illness.
January 1960: Release from Hospital and Uncertain Future
After weeks of treatment, Garland was discharged from the hospital in January 1960, though still in a fragile state. Despite the uncertainty surrounding her health and future, she showed resilience and a determination to recover.
1960: Autobiography Project Begins
In 1960, Garland embarked on a new project by signing a contract with Random House to write her autobiography, "The Judy Garland Story." This collaboration with Fred F. Finklehoffe aimed to capture her life story and provide insights into her experiences.
April 23, 1961: Legendary Carnegie Hall Performance
On April 23, 1961, Judy Garland delivered what is widely considered one of the greatest performances in show business history at Carnegie Hall. This iconic event solidified her legendary status and continues to be celebrated for its brilliance and emotional impact.
1961: Resolution with CBS and New Opportunities
Despite previous disputes, Garland and CBS resolved their differences in 1961, paving the way for new projects. Her talent and popularity led to a lucrative offer for a weekly television series, a testament to her enduring appeal.
1961: Judy Garland on Connecting with her Audience
In 1961, Judy Garland spoke about the importance of her audience's connection, describing the feeling of a "great big warm heating pad" when met with a positive reception. She expressed a strong desire to entertain and bring joy to her audiences.
1961: Academy Award Nomination for Judgment at Nuremberg
In 1961, Judy Garland was nominated for an Academy Award for her performance in the courtroom drama "Judgment at Nuremberg".
1961: Judy Garland wins Grammy Award
In 1961, Judy Garland won the Grammy Award for Album of the Year for her live recording, "Judy at Carnegie Hall". She was the first woman to win in this category.
1961: Judy Garland's Last Will and Testament
In early 1961, Judy Garland signed and sealed her last will and testament, which included numerous generous bequests. Unfortunately, due to years of financial mismanagement and her own generosity, her estate was in debt, and many of these bequests couldn't be fulfilled.
1961: Notable Film Roles and Award Recognition
Judy Garland continued to take on significant film roles, including her performance in "Judgment at Nuremberg" in 1961. This role earned her both Oscar and Golden Globe nominations for Best Supporting Actress, showcasing her talent and versatility.
1961: Judy Garland's Voice Shows Signs of Strain
By 1961, while still emotionally rich, Judy Garland's voice, according to Julia Molony of the Irish Independent, began to show the strain of her difficult life experiences during her performance at Carnegie Hall.
February 25, 1962: The Judy Garland Show Premiere
On February 25, 1962, "The Judy Garland Show" premiered, featuring renowned guests such as Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. This successful special led to a groundbreaking deal with CBS for a weekly television series, marking a significant milestone in television history.
1962: Voice Acting and Diverse Projects
Expanding her repertoire, Judy Garland ventured into voice acting in 1962 with the animated film "Gay Purr-ee." This demonstrated her willingness to explore different creative avenues and connect with audiences through animation.
August 28, 1963: March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom
On August 28, 1963, Judy Garland joined other celebrities, including Josephine Baker, Sidney Poitier, Lena Horne, Paul Newman, Rita Moreno, and Sammy Davis Jr., in the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. This demonstration aimed to promote the civil and economic rights of African Americans.
September 16, 1963: Press Conference on 16th Street Baptist Church Bombing
On September 16, 1963, following the tragic bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama, Judy Garland, her daughter Liza Minnelli, Carolyn Jones, June Allyson, and Allyson's daughter Pam Powell, held a press conference. They condemned the attack, expressed their grief, and appealed for financial assistance for the families of the victims.
September 29, 1963: The Judy Garland Show Debut and Critical Acclaim
Judy Garland's weekly television series, "The Judy Garland Show," premiered on September 29, 1963. Despite facing tough competition in its time slot, the show received critical praise for its quality and artistry.
1963: George Jessel Appears on The Judy Garland Show
In 1963, George Jessel appeared on "The Judy Garland Show".
1963: Final Film Appearance
In 1963, Judy Garland starred alongside Dirk Bogarde in "I Could Go On Singing," marking her final film appearance. This film serves as a poignant end to her illustrious cinematic career.
1963: Affair with Glenn Ford
In 1963, while working on her television show, Judy Garland was involved in a six-month romantic relationship with actor Glenn Ford.
1963: The Judy Garland Show Premieres
Judy Garland's own television series, "The Judy Garland Show", premiered in 1963.
1963: Divorce Filing from Sidney Luft
In 1963, Judy Garland filed for divorce from her husband, Sidney Luft, citing mental cruelty as the grounds. She accused him of physical abuse and attempts to take their children from her.
November 1964: London Palladium Performance with Liza Minnelli
In November 1964, Judy Garland returned to the London Palladium stage, this time performing alongside her 18-year-old daughter, Liza Minnelli. This concert, one of her last performances at the venue, was broadcast on the British television network ITV.
1964: Troubled Australian Tour
Judy Garland's 1964 Australian tour faced difficulties. While the first two concerts in Sydney were successful, her third performance in Melbourne was met with a negative reception. Arriving late, Garland was booed and heckled by the audience, who perceived her to be intoxicated, leading her to leave the stage prematurely.
1964: The Judy Garland Show Cancellation
Despite critical acclaim, "The Judy Garland Show" was canceled in 1964 after one season. While its run was short-lived, the show's legacy endured, and it garnered multiple Emmy Award nominations.
1964: The Judy Garland Show Concludes
In 1964, "The Judy Garland Show" concluded.
1964: Garland Names "Over the Rainbow" Her Favorite Song
During a tour in 1964, Judy Garland declared "Over the Rainbow" as her all-time favorite song she had recorded, further cementing its connection to her legacy.
May 19, 1965: Divorce from Sidney Luft Finalized
On May 19, 1965, Judy Garland's divorce from Sidney Luft was finalized.
November 14, 1965: Marriage to Mark Herron
Judy Garland married Mark Herron on November 14, 1965, after her divorce from Sidney Luft was finalized. Their marriage was short-lived, ending in separation five months later.
1966: Financial Mismanagement and Tax Troubles
By 1966, Judy Garland faced severe financial difficulties due to alleged mismanagement and embezzlement by her agents, Freddie Fields and David Begelman. The situation left her with significant debt, including back taxes owed to the IRS. As a result, the IRS placed liens on her assets, including her Brentwood home and her recording contract with Capitol Records.
1966: "The Hollywood Palace" Guest Appearances
In 1966, Judy Garland was a guest on "The Hollywood Palace" twice. She co-hosted an episode with Vic Damone and returned for a second episode with guest Van Johnson. Unfortunately, issues with her behavior led to the termination of further guest appearances.
February 1967: Casting in "Valley of the Dolls" and Dismissal
In February 1967, Judy Garland was cast as Helen Lawson in the film "Valley of the Dolls." However, her time on set was marked by difficult experiences, including alleged mistreatment by director Mark Robson, and she was ultimately dismissed from the production.
July 1967: Final U.S. Appearances at New York's Palace Theatre
In July 1967, Judy Garland made her last U.S. stage appearances at New York's Palace Theatre, where she performed a 27-show engagement with her children Lorna and Joey Luft. Notably, she wore a sequined pantsuit that was originally part of her character's wardrobe from "Valley of the Dolls." Despite earning a significant sum from the engagement, federal tax agents seized most of her earnings on closing night.
March 1969: Deteriorating Health and Final Marriage
In March 1969, Judy Garland's health was declining, but she continued to perform, including a five-week run at the Talk of the Town nightclub in London. This period also marked a significant personal change, as her divorce from Mark Herron was finalized on February 11th, and she married her fifth and final husband, Mickey Deans, on March 15th in London.
June 22, 1969: Death of Judy Garland
Judy Garland died on June 22, 1969, at age 47 from an accidental barbiturate overdose.
June 26, 1969: Public Mourning and Transfer of Remains
On June 26, 1969, Judy Garland's remains were transported to New York City, where an estimated 20,000 mourners paid their respects at the Frank E. Campbell Funeral Chapel in Manhattan. The chapel remained open throughout the night to accommodate the large crowds.
June 27, 1969: Judy Garland's Funeral
Judy Garland's funeral was held on June 27, 1969, with a eulogy delivered by actor James Mason. The service, closed to the public and press, was led by the same Reverend who officiated her marriage to Mickey Deans just three months prior.
1969: Judy Garland's Enduring Legacy
By the time of her passing in 1969, Judy Garland had made over 35 films, solidifying her place as an entertainment icon. Her legacy continued to inspire and captivate audiences, cementing her status as one of the greatest entertainers of all time.
1969: The New York Times Observes Changes in Garland's Voice
In 1969, The New York Times noted that Judy Garland's voice had changed with age, though she retained her captivating stage presence. Despite this change, Garland's performances continued to draw audiences in, showcasing her enduring talent and connection with fans.
1969: Death of Judy Garland
Judy Garland died in 1969 from an accidental barbiturate overdose at 47 years old.
1978: Auction of Judy Garland's Personal Items
In 1978, an auction of Judy Garland's personal belongings, supported by her ex-husband Sidney Luft and their children Lorna and Joey, was held. The auction featured almost 500 items and aimed to generate funds for her heirs.
1978: Andrea McArdle in "Rainbow"
Andrea McArdle portrayed Judy Garland in the 1978 television movie "Rainbow."
1989: U.S. Postage Stamp as Dorothy
Judy Garland was featured on a U.S. postage stamp in 1989, depicting her iconic role as Dorothy from "The Wizard of Oz."
1992: Garland Remembered as the "Greatest American Entertainer"
In 1992, Architectural Digest's Gerald Clarke called Judy Garland "probably the greatest American entertainer of the twentieth century," a testament to her enduring impact on entertainment.
1992: Tori Amos's "Happy Phantom"
The 1992 song "Happy Phantom" by Tori Amos references Judy Garland, imagining her guiding Buddha.
1996: Tori Amos's "Not the Red Baron"
Tori Amos's 1996 song "Not the Red Baron" includes a reference to Judy Garland as "Judy G."
1997: Posthumous Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award
Judy Garland was honored posthumously with the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1997, recognizing her significant contributions to the music industry.
1997: Posthumous Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award
Judy Garland was posthumously awarded the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1997.
June 1998: Camille Paglia Praises Judy Garland's Grand Persona
In June 1998, Camille Paglia, writing for The New York Times, praised Judy Garland as a larger-than-life personality who dwarfed contemporary pop stars, emphasizing her timeless appeal and enduring legacy.
1998: Carnegie Hall Tribute Concerts
Carnegie Hall paid tribute to Judy Garland in 1998 with two concerts celebrating her life and career, billing it as a tribute to "the world's greatest entertainer."
1998: Chrissy Amphlett in "The Boy from Oz"
The 1998 musical "The Boy from Oz" featured a character based on Judy Garland, originated by Chrissy Amphlett in the Australian production.
1999: Peter Lennon Recognizes Garland's Acting Versatility
In 1999, The Guardian's Peter Lennon characterized Judy Garland as a "chameleon" for her ability to seamlessly transition between comedic, musical, and dramatic roles. He highlighted films such as "The Wizard of Oz," "The Clock," "A Star is Born," and "I Could Go On Singing" as prime examples of her range.
1999: Recognized as one of the Greatest Female Screen Legends
The American Film Institute ranked Judy Garland as the eighth-greatest female screen legend of classic Hollywood cinema in 1999.
2001: Tammy Blanchard and Judy Davis in "Life with Judy Garland: Me and My Shadows"
In the 2001 television movie "Life with Judy Garland: Me and My Shadows," Tammy Blanchard played a young Judy Garland, and Judy Davis portrayed her in later years.
2003: Isabel Keating in "The Boy from Oz"
Isabel Keating played Judy Garland in the 2003 Broadway production of the musical "The Boy from Oz."
2005: Caroline O'Connor in "End of the Rainbow"
Caroline O'Connor portrayed Judy Garland in the 2005 musical "End of the Rainbow."
2006: Adrienne Barbeau in "The Property Known as Garland"
Adrienne Barbeau took on the role of Judy Garland in the 2006 play "The Property Known as Garland."
2006: U.S. Postage Stamp as Vicki Lester
In 2006, Judy Garland was honored with another U.S. postage stamp, this time portraying her as Vicki Lester from the film "A Star Is Born."
2006: Recognition on "The Definitive Collection"
Ron O'Brien, producer of the tribute album "The Definitive Collection – Judy Garland" in 2006, praised Garland's unique combination of natural phrasing, elegant delivery, mature pathos, and powerful dramatic dynamics, making her renditions definitive interpretations of the songs.
2010: Huffington Post Article on Garland's Enduring Appeal
In 2010, Huffington Post contributor Joan E. Dowlin examined the reasons behind Judy Garland's lasting popularity, attributing it to her charisma, talent, and relatable charm.
2010: "The Judy Monologues"
Initially performed by male actors, "The Judy Monologues" (2010) later transformed into a one-woman show featuring Judy Garland's words.
2012: Analysis of Garland's Legacy as an Icon
In 2012, author John Strassler positioned Judy Garland as more than just a star; he argued that she created an enduring template for entertainers, comparable to icons like Charlie Chaplin and Lucille Ball.
2014: Posthumous Publication of Autobiography Excerpts
Although Garland never finished her autobiography, excerpts were eventually published in 2014 as part of the biography "Judy Garland on Judy Garland: Interviews and Encounters" by Randy L. Schmidt. This posthumous release provided valuable glimpses into her life and work.
2015: Sigrid Thornton in "Peter Allen: Not The Boy Next Door"
Sigrid Thornton took on the role of Judy Garland in the 2015 Australian miniseries "Peter Allen: Not The Boy Next Door."
2015: Frog's "Judy Garland" Single
The band Frog released a single titled "Judy Garland" in 2015.
January 2017: Reinterment at Hollywood Forever Cemetery
In January 2017, fulfilling her children's wishes, Judy Garland's remains were moved from Ferncliff Cemetery to the Hollywood Forever Cemetery in Los Angeles, a distance of 2,800 miles.
2019: Renée Zellweger in "Judy"
Renée Zellweger's portrayal of Judy Garland in the 2019 biopic "Judy" earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress.
June 10, 2022: "Judy - A Garland Fragrance" Launch
On June 10, 2022, marking the centennial of her birth, a perfume called "Judy — A Garland Fragrance," created by Vincenzo Spinnato, was released in her honor.
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