‘Wizard of Oz’ Actress Dies at 94

Elaine Merk Binder, one of the last surviving cast members who played a Munchkin in the legendary 1939 film The Wizard of Oz, has died at 94.

Her daughter, Annette Phillips, confirmed the news, though no cause of death was given.

Elaine was just eight years old when she stepped onto the iconic MGM set, joining seven other children as part of the Munchkin ensemble. She appeared in beloved musical numbers including Come Out, Come Out and Off to See the Wizard, dancing inside a pavilion during Dorothy’s first moments in Oz.

In a past interview, Elaine recalled her 1938 audition: “For me it was scary. It was my first big call for girls from a major studio. I was relieved when Bud told the dance director, ‘She’s OK.’ 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.”

Though she was offered a contract with Paramount as a teenager, Elaine chose a different path, pursuing higher education instead. She went on to earn degrees in music and education, later studying computer science and theology. She built a long career as a computer consultant at USC and First Interstate Bank.

Fans paid tribute to her on social media, with one writing, “A piece of Hollywood history fades away. Elaine Merk Binder reminded us how timeless The Wizard of Oz truly is. Rest in peace.” Another added, “The famous Wizard of Oz will continue forever. RIP Elaine Merk.”

Elaine’s death marks another loss for the small group of surviving Wizard of Oz performers. In 2023, fellow Munchkin actress Betty Ann Bruno passed away at 91.

The Wizard of Oz — adapted from L. Frank Baum’s 1900 novel — remains one of the most beloved films of all time, remembered not only for its groundbreaking Technicolor and timeless songs but also for the unforgettable ensemble of Munchkinland.