Jerry Maren was an American actor who is best known for his role as a Munchkin in The Wizard of Oz, along with appearances in various television shows and films. He was a beloved figure in the entertainment industry and became a symbol of nostalgia for many fans.
Personal and Family Life
Born on January 24, 1920, in Roxbury, Massachusetts, Jerry Maren, whose real name was Gerard Emil Marenghi, grew up in a family of Italian emigrants. He dreamed of becoming an actor from a young age and took dancing lessons to pursue his passion. In 1975, he married Elizabeth Barrington, and they remained together until her death in 2011.
Career Highlights
Jerry Maren’s career began when he joined a group of little people heading to California in search of work. He was chosen as the Munchkin who presented Dorothy with a lollipop in The Wizard of Oz (1939). Throughout the years, he also appeared in several commercials, including for McDonald’s, and took on various roles in film and television, often portraying characters that showcased his unique stature.
Death and Legacy
Jerry Maren passed away on May 24, 2018, in San Diego, California, due to congestive heart failure. He was the last surviving Munchkin actor from The Wizard of Oz, having outlived all major cast members. Maren’s legacy continues through the impact he made in the world of entertainment and the joy he brought to audiences around the globe.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Superman and the Mole-Men | 1951-11-23 | Mole-Man (uncredited) |
| Little Cigars | 1973-06-22 | Cadillac |
| The Terror of Tiny Town | 1938-12-01 | Townsperson |
| Planet of the Apes | 1968-02-07 | Child Ape (uncredited) |
| The Wizard of Oz | 1939-08-15 | Lollipop Guild Member (uncredited) |
| Seinfeld | 1989-07-05 | Dad |
| I Married a Munchkin | 1994-01-01 | Himself |
| We’re Off to See the Munchkins | 1993-01-01 | Himself |