A newly published book sheds light on the hidden struggles of iconic actress Judy Garland, revealing that she sought the aid of a private investigator to combat her crippling drug addiction.
Over the Rainbow: 'Wizard of Oz' Star Judy Garland Fought Drug Addiction with Private Investigator's Help
The legendary actress Judy Garland, known for her unforgettable role as Dorothy in "The Wizard of Oz," battled a lifelong addiction to drugs that ultimately led to her untimely demise. A new book, "Judy Garland: A Tragic Icon," unveils the previously unknown role played by a private investigator in her desperate attempt to overcome her dependency.
According to the book's author, John Fricke, Garland enlisted the services of Harry Romani, a private investigator, in 1953. Romani's mission was to track down and retrieve Garland's prescription medications, which she was abusing in alarming quantities.
Garland's addiction had spiraled out of control in the wake of her divorce from Vincente Minnelli, and her erratic behavior had alienated friends and colleagues. Desperate for help, she turned to Romani, who quickly realized the extent of her problem.
Romani's investigation revealed that Garland was obtaining multiple prescriptions for the same drugs from different doctors, a practice known as "doctor shopping." He also discovered that Garland was injecting herself with amphetamines, a highly addictive stimulant.
Determined to protect his client, Romani embarked on a covert mission to track down and retrieve Garland's medications. He would often pose as a doctor or a pharmacist to gain access to her prescriptions. On one occasion, he even intercepted a package of morphine that was being mailed to Garland's Hollywood home.
Romani's efforts proved to be a lifeline for Garland, but he could not ultimately overcome her addiction. Despite his best efforts, she continued to abuse drugs, and her health and career declined precipitously.
In the end, Judy Garland succumbed to the ravages of her drug addiction in 1969 at the age of 47. Her tragic death underscores the devastating consequences of untreated addiction and the desperate measures people will resort to in the pursuit of a cure.
