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Judy Garland, originally named Frances Gumm,
b. Grand Rapids, Minn., June 10, 1922, d. June 22, 1969, was
one of America's most notable singers and entertainers. At
age four, she was singing and touring the vaudeville circuit
with her two older sisters in the Gumm Sisters Kiddie Act.
In 1935, she joined MGM studios and soon gained popularity
in the Andy Hardy films series. But it was her rendition of
the song Over the Rainbow in the movie The Wizard of Oz (1939),
for which she won an Academy Award, that made her world famous.
Notable later films include Strike Up the Band (1940), Meet
Me in St. Louis (1944), Easter Parade (1948), A Star Is Born
(1954), and Judgement in Nuremberg (1961).
Although her relationship with Hollywood's studios was marred
by illnesses and breakdowns, Garland's second career as a
concert singer demonstrated a magnetism and courage that endeared
her to an international audience. She had already become a
cult figure when she died, and thousands of fans attended
her funeral in New York City. Her daughter, singer/actress
Liza MINNELLI, has inherited her mother's energy and much
of her style.
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