#15: The Iconic Role of Dorothy Was Nearly Given to Shirley Temple

In a twist of casting fate, the legendary child actress Shirley Temple came remarkably close to playing the iconic role of Dorothy in the 1939 production of The Wizard of Oz. Temple was a beloved Hollywood sensation known for her immense talent and charm. However, due to a series of factors, including contractual obligations to her studio and the decision that her image was too strongly associated with 20th Century Fox, Temple ultimately did not land the role.

The part of Dorothy eventually went to Judy Garland, who delivered a timeless and unforgettable performance. While Shirley Temple didn’t don the ruby slippers, her nearly iconic portrayal serves as a tantalizing “what if” moment in Hollywood history, leaving fans to imagine how her presence might have added a unique twist to the beloved classic.