The Wizard of Oz actress Elaine Merk Binder has died.
One of many authentic Munchkins has died
The passing of Elaine – who was one of many final surviving solid members from the 1939 traditional film – on the age of 94 has been confirmed by her daughter, Annette Phillips.
She auditioned for the musical in 1938 and was one of many eight youngsters chosen to bop and sing as a part of the Munchkin ensembles and he or she beforehand recalled how “scary” the method was.
She stated: “I attempted out for the ‘Wizard of Oz’ Munchkins. For me it was scary. It was my first massive name for ladies from a significant studio.
“I used to be relieved when Bud advised the dance director, ‘She’s O.Ok.’ I didn’t should carry out just like the others did. They usually chosen me as one of many eight who would each dance and sing. We realized later that that they had added women to the Little Individuals as a result of that they had the mistaken impression that the Little Individuals weren’t athletic.”
Elaine was simply eight years outdated when she filmed The Wizard of Oz and could be seen in a scene that options the music Come Out, Come Out, Wherever You Are.
Earlier than The Wizard of Oz, she carried out within the Our Gang shorts and he or she additionally appeared within the movie Nothing Sacred with Carole Lombard and Frederic March.
Paramount supplied Elaine a contract as an adolescent, however she declined with a purpose to research at Occidental School. After graduating in 1951, she accomplished her grasp’s diploma at Cal State Los Angeles two years later with {qualifications} in music and schooling.
She then went on to check laptop science and theology, and labored as a pc guide for USA and First Interstate Financial institution.
In addition to Annette, Elaine is survived by son George and 6 grandchildren.
