Judy Garland (screen capture)Today would have been the 100th birthday of LGBTQ icon and Hollywood legend Judy Garland. I know there will be multitudes “Over the Rainbow” videos posted today, but I have my own favorite performance by La Garland.
As a young gay, I knew Garland was one of the LGBTQ world’s “high holies” in the pantheon of idols. While I wasn’t the biggest fan, I appreciated the talent. Like many young people it was hard to grasp how her gifts and her history blended to become more than the sum of their parts.
Getting older as a gay man, as an artist in the theatre, AND as I learned to raise my voice as an activist, when I came across this clip from Judy’s 1960s TV show, I suddenly got it.
On December 13, 1963, Judy sang “The Battle Hymn of the Republic” in honor of the recent death of President John F. Kennedy.
Garland and Kennedy were friends and she had campaigned on his behalf.
According to Garland’s daughter, Lorna Luft, at the taping of this performance Judy looked into the camera and said, “This is for you, Jack,” but CBS edited it out as too political. Still, everyone knew what the song was about.
Related: 56 Years Ago Today – Babs & Judy Duet ‘Happy Days/Get Happy’
This performance is, by far, my favorite by Garland. I see her vulnerability, her conviction, and her indomitable strength all at the same time.
Like a sorcerer whose once awesome powers might have dimmed, through sheer force of will she again summons powerful artistry to pay honor to her friend.
For a brief, shining moment the magic returned.
The loss of the president and the inspiration of his promise is clear in her eyes. Check out the 3:10 mark as she stands strong and tall in her conviction.
THIS was why she was a star. This is why she remains in our consciousness.
With pride events beginning to happen all over the country, I’m sure we’ll all hold more than one rainbow in our hearts on Judy Garland’s 100th birthday.
Happy birthday Judy Garland. If you get this, please share 👍
And if you’d like to hear “Over the Rainbow” today, check out this newly-released video by Rufus Wainwright honoring Judy and Pride Month.