#42: A Fan-Turned-Star

Margaret Hamilton’s role as the Wicked Witch of the West was more than just an acting job; it was a dream come true for the actress. Hamilton was a genuine fan of L. Frank Baum’s original book, and when asked which character the producers wanted her to portray in the film, her agent’s response was a resounding, “The witch — who else?”

Hamilton was not offended by this categorization; instead, she eagerly embraced the opportunity to bring the iconic character to life on the silver screen. Her deep appreciation for the source material, coupled with her exceptional portrayal of the witch, contributed to the enduring legacy of her character and the film itself, making her one of the most memorable villains in cinematic history.