A talented actor who brought iconic characters to life on screen, particularly the Wizard in "The Wizard of Oz" and a memorable on-screen presence in many classic films.
Frank Morgan, a renowned American character actor, is best known for his iconic portrayal of the title role in the 1939 classic film, The Wizard of Oz. With a career spanning 35 years, Morgan's impressive filmography boasts over 100 films, cementing his status as one of Hollywood's most beloved character actors.
Born Francis Phillip Wuppermann on June 1, 1890, in New York City, Morgan was the youngest of 11 children to Josephine Wright and George Diogracia Wuppermann. His family's wealth, derived from distributing Angostura bitters, allowed him to attend Cornell University, where he was a member of the Phi Kappa Psi fraternity and the Glee Club.
Morgan's film debut in 1916's The Suspect marked the beginning of a long and successful career. He went on to star alongside John Barrymore in the 1917 film Raffles, the Amateur Cracksman, an independent film produced in and about New York City. With the advent of talkies, Morgan's career expanded, and he played romantic leads in films such as When Ladies Meet (1933) and Enchanted April (1935).
By the mid-1930s, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) was so impressed by Morgan that they signed him to a lifetime contract. This led to some of his most memorable roles, including Professor Appleby in Dimples (1936) alongside Shirley Temple.
Morgan's most celebrated performance came in 1939's The Wizard of Oz, where he played a total of six roles, including the iconic Wizard himself. This role catapulted him to stardom, and he went on to appear in numerous films throughout the 1940s.
Some of his notable films from this period include The Shop Around the Corner (1940), The Mortal Storm (1940), and White Cargo (1942). Morgan's versatility as an actor allowed him to take on a wide range of roles, from drama to comedy, solidifying his position as a beloved character actor.
Frank Morgan's contributions to the film industry were recognized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. His iconic performance in The Wizard of Oz has been preserved in the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress, ensuring his legacy as a Hollywood legend.
Morgan's impact on Hollywood's Golden Age is still felt today, inspiring new generations of actors and filmmakers. His dedication to his craft and his ability to bring characters to life have made him a timeless talent, cherished by audiences around the world.
Frank Morgan's remarkable career and enduring legacy continue to captivate audiences, making him a true Hollywood legend.
Born in 1900
Academy Award-winning star of Hollywood's Golden Age, known for iconic on-screen partnership with Katharine Hepburn and memorable roles in classics like "Inherit the Wind" and "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner".
Born in 1907
A legendary actress who won four Academy Awards and starred in iconic films like "The Philadelphia Story" and "On Golden Pond", known for her fierce independence and spirited on-screen presence.
Born in 1901
A legendary actor who epitomized Hollywood's Golden Age, starring in iconic films like "Gone with the Wind" and charming audiences with his rugged, debonair persona.
Born in 1903
A talented actress and singer who starred in popular musical films of the 1930s and 1940s, known for her beautiful soprano voice and iconic on-screen partnerships.
Born in 1901
A baritone singer and actor who starred in movie musicals, particularly in the 1930s and 1940s, known for his rich voice and on-screen partnerships with Jeanette MacDonald.
Born in 1922
Iconic actress and singer who starred in classic movies like "The Wizard of Oz" and belted out unforgettable tunes like "Over the Rainbow".
Born in 1920
A legendary actor, singer, director, and producer who starred in over 300 films, including the iconic Andy Hardy series and Judy Garland musicals, earning him a lifelong reputation as a Hollywood legend.
Born in 1884
Co-founder of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, a pioneering film producer who played a crucial role in shaping Hollywood's Golden Age, producing iconic movies and launching legendary stars.
