A true Hollywood legend, Judy Garland began performing at a young age and quickly became one of the most beloved stars of her era. She started acting and singing as a child alongside her sisters and was signed by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) as a teenager. Under the studio system, Judy worked tirelessly, appearing in several films each year, including The Wizard of Oz, which she filmed at 17 and which remains one of the most iconic movies of all time.
Her 15-year contract with MGM produced dozens of classics, but Judy’s talent extended far beyond the screen. She went on to launch a hugely successful concert career, breaking attendance records with her live performances and earning acclaim for her powerful voice and emotional depth. She also hosted her own Emmy-nominated television series, The Judy Garland Show, which aired from 1963 to 1964.
Judy passed away on June 22, 1969, in London, but her influence on music, film, and pop culture continues to resonate. In 2018, it was announced that her life would be adapted into a biopic, with Renée Zellweger portraying her in the 2019 film Judy. Renée’s performance earned widespread praise and won her the Academy Award for Best Actress.
Judy remains one of entertainment’s greatest talents. You can see all of the best career-spanning photos from Judy Garland by scrolling through the gallery.
