Remembering Elaine Merk Binder: The Last Surviving Munchkin from "The Wizard of Oz
Elaine Merk Binder, a former actress known for her role as a Munchkin in the iconic film "The Wizard of Oz," has passed away at the age of 94. Binder was selected to be part of the Munchkin ensemble in the movie after auditioning in 1938. She was one of the eight children chosen to dance and sing as part of the group.
Binder's experience auditioning for the role was nerve-wracking but ultimately successful. She was relieved when she was chosen by the dance director and selected to both dance and sing with the group. Binder can be seen in the film during the song "Come Out, Come Out" and later in a pavilion scene wearing a dark green dress and hat. She was just eight years old when she filmed her scenes on the MGM lot.
After her role in "The Wizard of Oz," Binder appeared in the film "Nothing Sacred" before deciding to pursue her education. She declined a contract offer from Paramount and went on to study music and education at Occidental College, graduating in 1951. She later earned a master's degree in music and education from Cal State Los Angeles and went on to study computer science and theology. Binder worked as a computer consultant for USC and First Interstate Bank during her career.
Binder is survived by her son, George Christy, her daughter, Annette Phillips, and her six grandchildren. Her legacy as one of the last surviving Munchkin actors from "The Wizard of Oz" will be remembered by fans of the classic film.