Elaine Merk Binder, who played one of the munchkins in “The Wizard of Oz,â has passed away at the age of 94. Notably, she is one of the last surviving actors from the classic film. Now, tributes are pouring in for someone who was a part of one of the most iconic films of all time.
According to Variety, Binderâs daughter, Annette Phillips, confirmed the news on September 21. Her cause of death is not mentioned in the report. Regarding her appearance in the film, she can be seen during the performance of âCome Out, Come Out.â She is one of eight dancers in a pavilion. Binder is at the rear in a green dress. She was eight years old in the film.Â
Binder once said of appearing in âThe Wizard of Oz,â âI tried out for the âWizard of Ozâ Munchkins. For me, it was scary. It was my first big call for girls from a major studio.â
She continued at the time, âI was relieved when Bud told the dance director, âSheâs O.K.â I did not have to perform like the others did. And they selected me as one of the eight who would both dance and sing.â
Binder then said, âWe learned later that they had added girls to the Little People because they had the mistaken impression that the Little People were not athletic.â
People are Paying Tribute to Binder’s Legacy
Binder didn’t have a long career in Hollywood as she went on to pursue other endeavors. However, many are paying tribute to her as she is a part of film history. One person on X wrote, “Elaine Merk Binder, among the last surviving Munchkins from The Wizard of Oz, has passed away at 94, leaving behind a cherished legacy in film history.”
Someone else wrote, “A piece of Hollywood history fades away. Elaine Merk Binder reminded us how timeless âThe Wizard of Ozâ truly is. Rest in peace.”
Another fan of the film said, “Elaine Merk Binder’s passing marks the end of an era for “The Wizard of Oz.” At 8, she danced as a Munchkin, bringing joy to millions. Her life extended far beyond: degrees in music, education, and more, plus a tech career. A reminder that even small roles leave lasting magic. Rest in peace.”
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