Mr. Rogers invited 'Wicked Witch' from Wizard of Oz, and it forever changed children's relationship with fear
'I am not a scary person but I am an actress and that's my job...'
Fred Rogers, better known as Mister Rogers, is synonymous with kindness, empathy, and gentle guidance that continues to shape generations. The legendary television host, author, and former Presbyterian minister spent his entire life guiding young minds and shaping their perspectives on life. Mister Rogers was always honest with kids, and through his "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood" show, he explored life lessons with a friendly approach. The series was a massive hit and went on to air for 33 years. In one of his episodes, he had invited actress Margaret Hamilton, popular for playing "The Wicked Witch of the West" in the 1939 movie, "The Wizard of Oz." Mister Rogers not only wanted kids to understand that she was just an actor playing a wicked character, but also wanted them to love her for exemplary work.
David Newell, the fast-talking deliveryman in the series, recalled how he'd heard stories from people saying they had grown up petrified of the film, especially Hamilton's character. Later, he mentioned it to Mister Rogers and asked him if they could do something to change her 'scary' image in people's minds. Interestingly, Hamilton was a huge admirer of the show and used to watch it with her grandkids. So, when she was approached for an exclusive episode, she immediately agreed.
Meanwhile, Mister Rogers had promised Newell that he would write the script if they could get Hamilton on board. Luckily, things worked in favor, and Hamilton appeared in an iconic episode of "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood." The makers had arranged for a costume similar to the one she wore in the movie and made her wear it onscreen. "You're a real lady who got dressed up to play this part," Mister Rogers said in the episode, hoping children would understand that Hamilton wasn't evil in real life, but only an actress who aced the role. "In fact, looking at the camera she said, 'I am not a scary person but I am an actress and that's my job,'" Newell said. Mister Rogers made Hamilton talk like her character, so kids realized that it was just acting and nothing real.
People have always loved Mr. Rogers and acknowledged the impact he had on them, especially as kids. His initiative to reintroduce Hamilton to kids and change their perspective about her was also widely appreciated. For instance, @red2846 said, "This is exactly how you should teach children! Show them. He (Mr. Rogers) was my absolute favorite when I was a little girl!"
Similarly, some people sympathized with Hamilton for being misunderstood and hated by many kids. Emphasizing it, @dannithemagicjunkdrawer commented, "My heart just breaks for her. She seems like such a sweet and genuine woman. I feel so sad that people had her labeled as a witch in real life. I just want to give her a hug!" @whyknot-lr1kk wrote, "It's too bad that we don’t have programs like this today. All these goofy cartoons, action heroes, and other silliness don’t even come close to Fred Rogers." @audioandroid confessed, "I'm 47, and I think every generation grows up to do their part in shaping the world; we can't have 1 without the others, but having Mr. Rogers in my life had a huge effect on me as a child, and I can never be thankful enough to him and all of his guests."
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