Framing Judy Garland’s feminist life requires knowledge of her 26 episode TV series, The Judy Garland Show. Garland isn’t naturally associated with feminism. But when examined with the help of Garland scholar Angela Ingersoll, Garland’s feminist life was real and entirely invisible. 

In the second episode of a 5-part series in Advanced TV Herstory, Emmy-nominated actor, singer and Garland scholar Angela Ingersoll and I look closely at the TV show (1963-64). We explore the male-dominated narratives that shaped Garland’s legacy, from books to documentaries. There are few examples of women biographers and archivists, who could view misogyny and power through the female lens. Now, with feminist context, Garland’s remarkable career and her struggles with sexism and ageism in Hollywood make sense. And the social impact of her musical performances will be studied for years to come. 

Discover how the sexism and power imbalances in TV production still resonate today, as Angela and I offer fresh perspectives on Garland’s resilience and her cultural significance.