Frank Morgan
Actor
About Frank Morgan
Frank Morgan, born Francis Phillip Wuppermann, was a beloved American character actor whose career spanned over three decades of Hollywood's Golden Age. He began his acting career on Broadway before transitioning to silent films in 1916, quickly establishing himself as a versatile performer capable of both comedy and drama. Morgan's breakthrough came during the early talkie era, where his distinctive voice and warm, avuncular persona made him a favorite among audiences and directors alike. He appeared in more than 100 films, often playing befuddled but good-hearted characters, wealthy eccentrics, or authority figures with a heart of gold. His most iconic role came in 1939 when he portrayed multiple characters in 'The Wizard of Oz,' including the Wizard himself, Professor Marvel, the Gatekeeper, the Carriage Driver, and the Guard. Morgan's career continued successfully through the 1940s, with memorable performances in films like 'The Shop Around the Corner' and 'The Human Comedy.' He passed away in 1949 while filming 'Annie Get Your Gun,' leaving behind a legacy as one of Hollywood's most cherished character actors.
The Craft
On Screen
Morgan was known for his versatile character acting, specializing in playing befuddled, good-hearted characters with a natural warmth and charm. His acting style combined comic timing with genuine pathos, often portraying eccentric but lovable figures. He had a distinctive voice and mannerisms that made his characters instantly recognizable, and he excelled at both physical comedy and subtle dramatic moments. Morgan's ability to play multiple distinct roles in the same film, as demonstrated in 'The Wizard of Oz,' showcased his remarkable range and technical skill.
Milestones
- Broadway stage debut in 1914
- Film debut in 'The Suspect' (1916)
- Academy Award nomination for 'The Affairs of Cellini' (1934)
- Iconic multiple roles in 'The Wizard of Oz' (1939)
- Starred in 'The Shop Around the Corner' (1940)
- Final film 'Annie Get Your Gun' (1950, released posthumously)
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Nominated
- Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for 'The Affairs of Cellini' (1934)
Special Recognition
- Hollywood Walk of Fame star at 1708 Vine Street
- Posthumous induction into the American Film Institute's list of greatest screen legends
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Frank Morgan's portrayal of the Wizard in 'The Wizard of Oz' created one of cinema's most enduring archetypes - the seemingly powerful figure who is ultimately revealed to be ordinary but wise. His performance helped establish the film as a cultural touchstone that continues to resonate with audiences generations later. Morgan's ability to play multiple roles in the same film demonstrated extraordinary versatility that influenced future character actors. His warm, paternal presence on screen helped define the 'benevolent authority figure' trope in classic Hollywood cinema, appearing in dozens of films that shaped American movie-going culture during the Golden Age.
Lasting Legacy
Frank Morgan left an indelible mark on Hollywood as one of the most recognizable and beloved character actors of his era. His body of work, spanning over 100 films, represents some of the finest examples of character acting in American cinema. The Wizard of Oz remains his most famous legacy, with his performance continuing to be celebrated and studied by film scholars. Morgan's influence extends beyond his films; he helped establish the importance of character actors in supporting leading players and proved that versatility and reliability could lead to a long, successful career. His star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and continued screenings of his films ensure that his contributions to cinema are remembered and appreciated by new generations of movie lovers.
Who They Inspired
Morgan's naturalistic approach to character acting influenced generations of performers who followed, particularly in how he brought humanity and depth to seemingly minor roles. His ability to balance comedy with genuine emotion set a standard for character actors in Hollywood. Many actors, including Thomas Mitchell and Charles Coburn, followed similar career paths, becoming reliable character actors who could elevate any film with their presence. Morgan's work in ensemble casts, particularly in films like 'The Shop Around the Corner,' demonstrated how character actors could create memorable performances without being the central focus, influencing how supporting roles were developed in Hollywood productions.
Off Screen
Frank Morgan came from a wealthy family; his father owned the Angostura bitters company. He attended Cornell University but was expelled for organizing a student protest. Morgan married Alma Muller in 1914, and they remained together until his death, having one son. Despite his on-screen persona as a bumbling character, Morgan was well-educated and sophisticated in real life. He was known for his generosity and often helped struggling actors financially. Morgan was also an accomplished amateur magician, a skill that likely contributed to his casting as the Wizard of Oz.
Education
Attended Cornell University (expelled before graduation)
Family
- Alma Muller (1914-1949)
Did You Know?
- He played five different roles in 'The Wizard of Oz' (1939): The Wizard, Professor Marvel, the Gatekeeper, the Carriage Driver, and the Guard
- His family owned the Angostura bitters company, making him wealthy before his acting career
- He was expelled from Cornell University for pulling a fire alarm as a prank
- Morgan was a skilled amateur magician and often performed tricks for friends and co-stars
- He was originally considered for the role of the Wicked Witch of the West in 'The Wizard of Oz' before being cast as the Wizard
- He died of a heart attack while filming 'Annie Get Your Gun' (1950); his role was completed by Louis Calhern
- Despite playing befuddled characters, Morgan was highly intelligent and well-read in real life
- He appeared in more films with Margaret Sullavan than any other actress
- His brother Ralph Morgan was also a successful actor
- Morgan was one of the few actors who successfully transitioned from silent films to talkies without difficulty
In Their Own Words
"A heart is not judged by how much you love; but by how much you are loved by others." - as The Wizard in 'The Wizard of Oz'
"I never had a bad day in my life. I've had some tough ones, but I never had a bad one." - in a 1948 interview
"Back where I come from, there are men who do nothing all day but good deeds." - as The Wizard in 'The Wizard of Oz'
"You, my friend, are a victim of disorganized thinking. You are under the unfortunate delusion that simply because you run away from danger, you have no courage." - as The Wizard in 'The Wizard of Oz'
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Frank Morgan?
Frank Morgan was a beloved American character actor during Hollywood's Golden Age, best known for playing the Wizard in 'The Wizard of Oz' (1939). He appeared in over 100 films from 1916 to 1949, specializing in warm, eccentric characters who often had a heart of gold beneath their bumbling exteriors.
What films is Frank Morgan best known for?
Frank Morgan is most famous for 'The Wizard of Oz' (1939), where he played five different roles including the Wizard. Other notable films include 'The Shop Around the Corner' (1940), 'The Human Comedy' (1943), 'The Affairs of Cellini' (1934), and 'Tortilla Flat' (1942).
When was Frank Morgan born and when did he die?
Frank Morgan was born on June 1, 1890, in New York City, and died on September 18, 1949, in Beverly Hills, California, at the age of 59 from a heart attack while filming 'Annie Get Your Gun'.
What awards did Frank Morgan win?
Frank Morgan received one Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for his role in 'The Affairs of Cellini' (1934). While he didn't win an Oscar, he received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and is remembered as one of Hollywood's most beloved character actors.
What was Frank Morgan's acting style?
Morgan was known for his versatile character acting, specializing in warm, befuddled characters with natural charm and humor. He combined comic timing with genuine emotion, often playing eccentric but lovable figures, and was particularly skilled at bringing humanity to supporting roles.
How many roles did Frank Morgan play in The Wizard of Oz?
Frank Morgan played five different roles in 'The Wizard of Oz': the Wizard of Oz, Professor Marvel (in Kansas), the Emerald City Gatekeeper, the Carriage Driver, and the Guard at the Wizard's palace.
Was Frank Morgan related to any other actors?
Yes, Frank Morgan's brother Ralph Morgan was also a successful actor in Hollywood. Both brothers had long careers in films during the Golden Age of Hollywood, though Frank achieved greater fame for his roles.
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Films
1 film
