AllMovie

Actor Clarence Swensen was best known for his role as one of the iconic Munchkins in the Hollywood classic The Wizard of Oz. Swensen broke into show business in the late '30s as a performer in the Stanley R. Graham All Midget Circus Troupe (based in the Dallas area), which led to his discovery by MGM. The studio reportedly paid Swensen $700 for his performance. Unduly proud of his association with the film, Swensen spent years attending Wizard of Oz festivals and resumed his role when the Munchkins received their star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Swensen suffered a stroke in 2005 and died four years later. He was 91.