David Bridges
‘The Wizard of Oz’ Munchkin
Elaine Merk Binder Dead at 94
Published September 21, 2025 5:35 PM PDT
Elaine Merk Binder, who famously played one of the munchkins in “The Wizard of Oz,” is dead.
Elaine died Sunday … according to her daughter, Annette Phillips. The cause of death is unclear.
Most of the actors who played munchkins in the 1939 movie are dead … Elaine had been one of the last few who were still alive.
Elaine tried out for “The Wizard of Oz” way back in 1938 … and she was one of 8 munchkins who dance and sing in the movie.
Elaine’s daughter says he appears in the film during the performance of “Come Out, Come Out” … she’s staged in the second little house up the steps. Just before they go into “Off to See the Wizard,” Elaine can be seen as one of the eight dancers in a pavilion at the rear, wearing a dark green dress and hat.
Elaine turned 8 years old during filming on the MGM lot.
Elaine once recalled … “I tried out for the ‘Wizard of Oz’ Munchkins. For me it was scary. It was my first big call for girls from a major studio.”
She was 94.
RIP
Key Points
- Death Announcement: Elaine Merk Binder, known for her role as a munchkin in “The Wizard of Oz,” has passed away.
- Age: Elaine was 94 years old at the time of her death.
- Historical Context: She was among the last surviving munchkin actors from the iconic 1939 film.
- Audition Background: Elaine auditioned for “The Wizard of Oz” in 1938 and was selected as one of the eight munchkins featured in the film.
