A new book titled 'C'mon, Get Happy: The Making of Summer Stock' reveals the insecurities and challenges faced by Judy Garland during the filming of the 1950 musical 'Summer Stock.'
Judy Garland's career began at a young age with the 1935 film 'Babes in Arms.' At the age of 13, she was signed to a long-term contract by MGM, earning a significant salary during the Great Depression. However, Garland's early success came with scrutiny from studio executives, who heavily criticized her weight and demanded extreme diets.
As a child, Garland was subjected to long working hours and was given "pep pills" to maintain her performance. As an adult, she struggled with drug addiction and alcoholism, which contributed to a nervous breakdown, electroconvulsive therapy, and suicide attempts.
In 1952, Garland married Sid Luft, but their marriage ended in divorce less than four years later. During this tumultuous period, Garland's attorney hired private investigator Fred Otash to serve as her bodyguard and protector from Luft.
Initially hesitant, Otash took on the role and became invaluable to Garland. He discovered her addictions and took decisive action, confiscating her alcohol and flushing her pills down the toilet, despite her initial resistance.
Garland's withdrawal was challenging, and she often demanded that Otash stay up with her throughout the night. These sleepless nights provided a safe space for Garland to share the trials and tribulations of her life, fostering a bond between them.
Otash's interventions helped Garland achieve sobriety for a 30-day period, which had a positive impact on her marriage to Luft. However, Garland's struggles continued, and her marriage ended in divorce in 1965.
Garland's life took a further downward spiral after her fourth marriage ended in 1969. She faced financial struggles due to embezzlement, became addicted to barbiturates and amphetamines, and became homeless.
In 1969, Garland married her fifth husband, Mickey Deans, and embarked on a concert series in London. However, her addiction took its toll, and she died of a barbiturate overdose at the age of 47.
In his memories, Otash expressed a sense of sadness for Garland's tragic end but acknowledged the brief period when she seemed to find some respite from her demons.
The book 'C'mon, Get Happy: The Making of Summer Stock' sheds light on the insecurities and personal struggles that Judy Garland faced throughout her career and life. Through her interactions with Fred Otash, we gain a glimpse into the challenges of being a vulnerable star in the unforgiving world of Hollywood.
