Priscilla Montgomery Clark is one of the last surviving cast members from 1939’s Wizard of Oz, which famously starred Judy Garland as Dorothy. She was only 9 when she was cast to play a female munchkin, having been the right size among girls from the Bud Murray Dance Studio in Los Angeles.
Although she had a small part in the classic, she stood out to director Victor Fleming due to her endearing smile, and he placed her in shots where she would be easily noticed. She also recalled being on set for the earlier part of school days before leaving for classes.
The last surviving ‘Wizard of Oz’ star shares her experience
Clark told PEOPLE during her recent exclusive interview that she never wanted to be an actress but somehow landed roles in movies that have stood the test of time. She appeared in It’s A Wonderful Life alongside Jimmy Stewart and Our Gang and starred opposite Cary Grant in The Bachelor and The Bobby-Soxer—all without an agent.
Fairly enough, she happened to look into the camera briefly in the scene where Glinda directs Dorothy to follow the Yellow Brick Road from Munchkin Land. She admitted to never realizing her mistake until someone pointed it out later.
Priscilla Montgomery Clark can remember a few things from the set
At 95, Clark can vividly recall some highlights from the Wizard of Oz set, such as Glinda’s pink bejeweled dress and crown. Dorothy’s shoes were also unforgettable, and the set with the tiny houses looked glorious to 9-year-old Clark.
Clark also witnessed the unfortunate accident that left Margaret Hamilton, who played the Wicked Witch of the West, badly burned. After assuring her and the other kids that they would be safe from the fire they were about to see, a malfunction led to a burst of flames that smoldered Hamilton’s face and hands.