Mickey Rooney and Judy Garland were indeed a remarkable duo on screen, showcasing their chemistry in films like “Love Finds Andy Hardy” (1938) and “Babes on Broadway” (1941). Their incredible connection was likely enhanced by the fact that they shared many similarities off-screen as well.
Both Rooney and Garland hailed from theatrical families. Garland, originally Frances Ethel Gumm, made her debut on stage as a young child in performances with her older sisters. Similarly, Rooney, born Joseph Yule, Jr., had a father who was a vaudeville performer and a mother who was a showgirl.
Their parents played pivotal roles in shaping their careers, with Rooney’s mother even moving to California to kickstart his career in the mid-1920s, including altering his name to give it a more Hollywood-friendly appeal. Likewise, Garland grew up performing alongside her sisters before landing a film contract at just 13 years old. Interestingly, MGM Studios head Louis B. Meyer signed Garland without even requiring a screen test, recognizing her immense talent from the start. She, too, underwent a name change to enhance her marketability.
Both Rooney and Garland experienced the highs and lows of the entertainment industry from a young age, laying the foundation for their enduring success and mutual respect for each other’s talents.
GARLAND AND ROONEY SHINED ON SCREEN
Rooney indeed had more film experience than Garland when they began working together, having made his debut in the 1926 short “Not to Be Trusted” and starring in a series of shorts as Mickey McGuire. Their paths crossed in 1935, when Rooney was already established in Hollywood, and Garland was beginning her career. They may have first encountered each other earlier as students at Lawlor’s Professional School. However, it wasn’t until a few years later that the studio recognized their potential as a winning duo.
Garland’s feature film debut came in 1936 with “Pigskin Parade,” while she and Rooney first appeared together in the 1937 film “Thoroughbreds Don’t Cry.” Garland later praised Rooney for giving her invaluable acting advice during this time, advising her to deliver her lines “like you’re singing it.” This guidance proved instrumental in shaping Garland’s approach to acting.
GARLAND HAD A CRUSH ON ROONEY
Rooney had already gained fame through the popular Andy Hardy film series before he was paired with Garland on screen. Starting with “A Family Affair” in 1937, the series centered around the Hardy family, with Rooney portraying the teenage son Andy, a character beloved by audiences for his all-American charm.
Garland made her debut in the Andy Hardy series with “Love Finds Andy Hardy” in 1938, playing Andy’s friend Betsy. She was initially marketed as a girl-next-door type, and her character’s romantic interest in Andy mirrored Garland’s real-life admiration for Rooney. However, Rooney, like Andy, was preoccupied with other romantic pursuits, including a relationship with actress Norma Shearer.
Their on-screen chemistry became truly apparent in “Babes in Arms” (1939), where they shared top billing. Directed by Busby Berkeley, the musical became a major success, showcasing the dynamic performances of Rooney and Garland. Their interactions on screen were captivating, leading to a magical on-screen partnership that audiences adored.
ROONEY AND GARLAND HAD AN UNUSUAL BOND
Despite Garland’s unrequited romantic feelings for Rooney, their bond transcended any romantic entanglements and endured throughout their lives, surpassing the duration of their respective marriages. Rooney’s marriages, including one to Ava Gardner that ended quickly due to his infidelity and gambling habits, contrasted with Garland’s own marital experiences, which ended in divorce multiple times.
Rooney once described his connection with Garland as more than just a love affair—it was a forever love. They starred together in several films, including “Girl Crazy” (1943) and “Words and Music” (1948), and maintained a close friendship beyond their on-screen collaborations. Rooney even made an appearance on Garland’s TV variety show in 1963, showcasing their enduring bond.
The news of Garland’s passing in 1969 deeply affected Rooney, who expressed that there was no greater love in his life than his love for Judy Garland. Their relationship, marked by mutual respect and admiration, left a lasting impact on both their lives and the entertainment industry.
