The Curse Behind The Wizard of Oz: Unfortunate Tales from the Set

After replacing Buddy Ebsen, Jack Haley wore a reformulated Tin Man makeup made as a paste instead of dust. Even so, aluminum particles still irritated his skin. During filming, some of the makeup got into his eye, causing a painful infection that forced him to stay home while doctors treated the swelling.

The delay disrupted shooting schedules and reminded the crew how hazardous the role remained. Although the new makeup was safer than the original version, it still posed risks Haley hadn’t expected. His experience showed that even the “fixed” Tin Man look carried lingering dangers for the actor behind it.