Despite the cruel treatment she received, Judy Garland's performance in "The Wizard of Oz" gained widespread critical acclaim and helped secure the film's legendary status. However, the film has also been cited as the best performance of Garland's career, as well as the beginning of her eventual downfall.
In addition to fueling her addiction to drugs and alcohol, Far Out Magazine reports her time filming "The Wizard of Oz" negatively impacted the teen's already low self-esteem and was a detriment to her mental health. PBS reports Garland was heavily addicted to drugs and alcohol before she reached the age of 30, and her addictions began to negatively impact her acting ability. In 1949, she was cast as the lead in "Annie Get Your Gun." However, she was fired after one month of filming for repeated tardiness and showing up to work visibly intoxicated.
Garland sought treatment at the Peter Bent Brigham Hospital, and was cast in several films, including "Summer Stock" and "Royal Wedding" following her release. However, PBS reports she continued to struggle. Citing excessive absenteeism and tardiness, Garland was ultimately fired by MGM.
Although Garland continued performing for the remainder of her life, she had a number of health concerns related to her drug and alcohol use, and struggled with mental health issues. PBS reports Garland died on June 22, 1969, at the age of 47. Her official cause of death was "Barbiturate poisoning (quinabarbitone) incautious self-overdosage. Accidental."
If you or anyone you know is struggling with addiction issues, help is available. Visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website or contact SAMHSA's National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
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