The Wizard of Oz: Economic Legacy and Actors' Pay

Despite its initial failure, "The Wizard of Oz" became one of the most profitable films of all time, grossing over $1.1 billion. However, this financial success was not reflected in the actors' salaries.

Judy Garland, who played Dorothy, was paid $500 a week and faced pressure from MGM. Ray Bolger (Scarecrow) and Jack Haley (Tin Man) had similar salaries, while Bert Lahr (Cowardly Lion) was the highest paid. Margaret Hamilton (Wicked Witch of the West) suffered severe burns during filming.

The actors who played the Munchkins were paid only $50 a week, less than the film's dog, Toto, who earned $125 a week.

The story of "The Wizard of Oz" highlights the inequality in actors' pay, in contrast to the film's huge financial success.