Judy Garland, born Frances Ethel Gumm in 1922 in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, is one of Hollywood’s most memorable talents, revered for her powerful voice and magnetic on-screen presence. The daughter of former vaudeville professionals, Garland made her stage debut at just over 2 years old; at 13, she signed with the film studio MGM. The studio changed her name to Judy Garland, and made her a megastar. Early films such as Pigskin Parade (1936) introduced her talents to the public, and in 1939, her starring role as Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz made her a bonafide teen star.

But Garland’s rise to fame came at a steep price. Forced into grueling schedules, diet restrictions, and constant pressures from MGM, she was left with lasting scars, including lifelong struggles with mental health and addiction. Toward the end of her contract with MGM, on the set of another Garland classic, Meet Me in St. Louis (1944), the actress met director Vincent Minnelli. They were soon married and welcomed their only child, Liza Minelli. In the 1960s, Garland became a celebrated live performer and an LGBTQ+ icon, solidifying her reputation as one of the greatest entertainers of all time. Garland continued working until her death at age 47 of an accidental overdose. More than 20,000 people paid their respects at her New York City funeral.