Raymond Wallace Bolger, a renowned Irish-American performer, was born in Dorchester, Massachusetts, to Anne C. (Wallace) and James Edward Bolger. He began his illustrious career in vaudeville, initially as half of the vaudeville duo "Sanford and Bolger". Bolger's talents soon led him to numerous Broadway shows, solidifying his reputation as a versatile song-and-dance man and actor.
Signed to a contract with MGM, Bolger's first film appearance was as himself in The Great Ziegfeld (1936). He then starred alongside Eleanor Powell in the romantic comedy Rosalie (1937),and later showcased his dancing and singing skills in Sweethearts (1938),performing the iconic "wooden shoes" number with Jeanette MacDonald.
This remarkable performance caught the attention of MGM producers, leading to Bolger's most iconic role as the Scarecrow in The Wizard of Oz (1939). Although the film was a massive success, Bolger's contract with MGM eventually came to an end. He went on to join RKO Radio Pictures, starring in the romantic comedy Four Jacks and a Jill (1942).
Bolger then returned to Broadway, where he found his greatest satisfaction. In 1953, he ventured into television, starring in his own sitcom, Where's Raymond? (later renamed The Ray Bolger Show). Following the end of his series, Bolger appeared in small film roles and made guest appearances on popular television shows, such as The Love Boat (1977),Little House on the Prairie (1974),Fantasy Island (1977),Battlestar Galactica (1978),and Diff'rent Strokes (1978).
In 1985, Bolger co-hosted the documentary film That's Dancing! (1985) alongside Liza Minnelli. Tragically, Bolger passed away on January 15, 1987, just five days after his 83rd birthday, due to complications from bladder cancer.
