Ray Bolger's illustrious career in vaudeville marked the beginning of his remarkable journey as a performer. He was part of a dynamic duo called "Sanford and Bolger," and his talents soon earned him solo appearances on Broadway. Bolger's impressive skillset included being a song-and-dance man, as well as a talented actor. In 1936, he was signed to a contract with MGM, making his film debut as himself in The Great Ziegfeld. This was followed by a role opposite the captivating Eleanor Powell in Rosalie, and then he took on a dancing and singing role in Sweethearts, where he showcased his iconic "wooden shoes" number alongside the talented Jeanette MacDonald.
Bolger's performance in Sweethearts caught the attention of MGM producers, leading to his casting as the beloved Scarecrow in The Wizard of Oz, a role that would become synonymous with his name. Although the film was a massive success, Bolger's contract with MGM unfortunately came to an end. He then joined RKO, starring in Four Jacks and a Jill in 1942. After this, Bolger returned to his roots on Broadway, where he found his greatest sense of fulfillment.
In 1953, Bolger ventured into television, starring in his own sitcom, initially titled Where's Raymond?, later renamed The Ray Bolger Show. Following the conclusion of his series, Bolger made numerous guest appearances on TV and had limited roles in films. In 1985, he co-hosted the documentary That's Dancing! alongside the talented Liza Minnelli. Tragically, Ray Bolger passed away in 1987 at the age of 83. He was laid to rest at Holy Cross Cemetery in Culver City, California, in the Mausoleum, Crypt F2, Block 35.
