Written by: Lisa Chang

Jerry Maren: The Last Surviving Munchkin of The Wizard of Oz

Jerry Maren is best known for his iconic role as a Munchkin member of the Lollipop Guild in the 1939 classic film The Wizard of Oz. He holds a special place in history as the last surviving adult Munchkin, and the last cast member with a specifically identifiable speaking or singing role.

Early Life

Jerry Maren was born Gerard Marenghi on January 24, 1920, in Lynn, Massachusetts, to Emil Marenghi, a shoe factory worker. He was the youngest of eleven or twelve children, and his four brothers were all over six feet tall by 1939.

Discovering His Passion

At the age of 12, Maren started taking dancing lessons with his sister, which led to him touring around New England with his dance instructor as part of an act called Three Steps and a Hop. This experience caught the attention of MetroGoldwynMayer scouts, who were looking for little people who could sing and dance.

A Leap to Fame

Just after graduating from high school, Maren received a telegram asking him to come to California to work on a film. He was offered nearly $100 per week plus expenses, a significant amount for a young man at the time. This opportunity led to his iconic role in The Wizard of Oz, where he played the greengarbed member of the Lollipop Guild, handing a lollipop to Dorothy Gale (played by Judy Garland).

Career Highlights

• Maren was 18 or 19 years old when he shot his scenes for The Wizard of Oz in 1938 and 1939, standing at just 3 ft 6 in (107 cm) tall.
• Through hormone treatments, Maren was able to reach a height of 4 ft 6 in (137 cm) later in life.
• During the same year as The Wizard of Oz, Maren began to cultivate his performance talents by creating a persona as a 13-year-old during school vacations.

Legacy and Impact

Jerry Maren's contribution to The Wizard of Oz has left a lasting impact on popular culture. He became a beloved figure, attending numerous fan conventions and events, and was celebrated as the last surviving adult Munchkin following the death of Ruth Duccini in 2014.

Personal Life and Later Years

Maren lived a long and fulfilling life, passing away on May 24, 2018, at the age of 98. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of audiences, and his iconic role in The Wizard of Oz remains an integral part of cinematic history.