More than 100 years after her birth, Judy Garland<\/strong><\/a> remains one of Hollywood\u2019s most beloved stars. While generations of fans continue to treasure her iconic performance in The Wizard of Oz, many also feel it is impossible to think about Garland without remembering the hardships she experienced behind the scenes.<\/p>\n While filming The Wizard of Oz<\/a>, Garland worked incredibly long hours<\/a> and was pushed by first her mother, then the movie studio, to take both stimulants and sleeping pills. Garland was under a great deal of pressure about her weight, as well.<\/p>\n Garland told biographer <\/a>Paul Donnelley<\/strong><\/a>, \u201cThey\u2019d give us pills to keep us on our feet long after we were exhausted. Then they\u2019d take us to the studio hospital and knock us out with sleeping pills\u2026Then after four hours they\u2019d wake us up and give us the pep pills again so we could work 72 hours in a row.\u201d<\/p>\n In 1969, Garland died of an accidental overdose. For many fans, learning about Garland\u2019s struggles has changed the way they view her life and career.<\/p>\n The Wizard of Oz<\/a> icon is \u201cStill the most heartbreaking voice in American history,\u201d tweeted a fan<\/a>.<\/p>\n On Instagram, someone noted<\/a>, \u201cHer beautiful voice and movies are always such a comfort to me.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHard working angel who deserved better. In another life \u2014 may her soul have found a kinder childhood, a real one with safe people. Not exploiters,\u201d another fan tweeted<\/a>.<\/p>\n Zachary Culpin\/BNPS\/MEGA<\/span><\/p>\n More than a century after her birth, fans are still captivated by Garland\u2019s<\/a> talent. At the same time, many believe her tragic story remains a heartbreaking reminder that one of Hollywood\u2019s brightest stars spent years of her life struggling under levels of pressure that no child performer should ever experience.<\/p>\n If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, help is available 24 hours a day through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Hotline<\/a> at 1-800-662-4357.<\/p>\n This story More Than 100 Years After Her Birth, Judy Garland\u2019s Story Still Breaks Fans\u2019 Hearts<\/a> first appeared on Closer Weekly<\/i><\/a>. Follow Closer Weekly<\/strong> on Yahoo<\/strong><\/a> so you don\u2019t miss what\u2019s coming next.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/span><\/div>\n