Daily Time Capsule

On This Day: January 15, 1987 - Ray Bolger Passed Away

Hey!

Welcome to We love the Eighties Community!

Thanks for visiting our 80s paradise. At We Love the Eighties we celebrate everything that made the 1980s unforgettable, from classic music and blockbuster movies to retro TV shows, vintage video games, pop culture icons, and bold fashion trends. Take a trip down memory lane with our Retro Rewind flashbacks, join in on nostalgic forum discussions, and share your favorite memories from the greatest decade ever. Guests can browse a few threads, but full access requires registration. Ready to relive the magic of the 80s? Sign up today and become part of our passionate eighties community.
Register Log in
Pete

Pete

Mr. Eighties
Joined
Apr 29, 2023
Messages
11,206
Reaction score
470
Credits
75
ray.jpg
​
On this day, January 15, 1987, legendary actor and dancer Ray Bolger passed away at the age of 83 due to bladder cancer. Best known for his unforgettable portrayal of the Scarecrow in the 1939 classic The Wizard of Oz, Bolger’s charm, humor, and graceful dancing left an indelible mark on Hollywood history.

Beyond The Wizard of Oz, Bolger enjoyed a successful career on stage and screen, appearing in Broadway productions and films that showcased his incredible talent as a performer. His work as a vaudevillian and dancer brought a unique physicality to his acting, earning him a special place in the hearts of audiences.

Fun Fact: Bolger’s iconic "If I Only Had a Brain" dance sequence in The Wizard of Oz was partially improvised, highlighting his exceptional creativity and skill as a performer.

Trivia Question: In The Wizard of Oz, what gift does the Wizard give to the Scarecrow to symbolize his newfound intelligence?
 
Back
Top