It's hard to believe, but the world has truly said goodbye to one of its most beloved little legends. Jerry Maren, the last surviving munchkin from the iconic 1939 film The Wizard of Oz, passed away at the age of 98. His legacy lives on as a symbol of courage, charm, and the magic of Hollywood’s golden era.
According to TMZ, Jerry’s passing occurred more than a week ago. His funeral service, which took place over the weekend, was held at Forest Lawn in Hollywood, California—a place that has seen its fair share of Hollywood farewells. While the exact cause of his death remains undisclosed, sources close to Jerry revealed that he had been battling dementia for quite some time. Despite his struggles, his spirit remained as vibrant as ever, much like the character he portrayed on screen so many decades ago.
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A Career That Sparkled Beyond Oz
Jerry’s IMDb profile paints a picture of a man whose life was filled with small but memorable roles in films. He appeared in classics like The Lord of the Rings (1978), That’s the Spirit (1945), and At the Circus (1939). But let’s face it, his most iconic role will always be as the brave munchkin who handed Dorothy (played by Judy Garland) a lollipop. It took real guts to stand out in that crowd, and Jerry did it with style and charm.
His profile tells a heartwarming story of a young man who dreamed big despite his small stature. "He took dancing lessons when he was young and aspired to be an actor," it reads. In November 1938, standing just three feet four inches tall, Jerry joined a group of little people bound for Hollywood. They traveled by bus from New York to California, where he was chosen to become a munchkin in The Wizard of Oz. That decision would change his life forever.
A Legacy That Lives On
Since Jerry's passing, fans of The Wizard of Oz have taken to social media to honor his memory. People of all ages have shared their admiration and gratitude for the joy he brought to their childhoods. “Safe travels over the rainbow, Jerry,” one user wrote, capturing the sentiment felt by so many. Another commented, “The Lollipop Guild has been reunited at last.”
Even though it’s been nearly 80 years since The Wizard of Oz first premiered, Jerry’s role in the film continues to leave an indelible mark. Who among us didn’t dream of being part of the Lollipop Guild, handing out sweet treats to Dorothy and her friends? His performance was more than just acting—it was magic.
