With the release of Wicked on November 22, 2024, the spotlight is back on the magical world of Oz. This highly anticipated film explores the friendship between Elphaba and Glinda, the witches of Oz, and features a stellar cast including Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. While Wicked dazzles with its visuals and heartfelt story, it also reminds us of the legacy of the original The Wizard of Oz—a film beloved for its magic but marred by the troubling use of chrysotile asbestos during its production.
The Dark Secret of the Poppy Field Scene
One of the most iconic moments in The Wizard of Oz is the poppy field scene, where Dorothy, the Cowardly Lion, and the Tin Man awaken under a gentle snowfall created by Glinda the Good Witch. But the snow was no Hollywood illusion—it was chrysotile asbestos, a material marketed at the time as "fake snow" for its fireproof qualities and realistic appearance.
In the scene, asbestos rained down from above, coating the actors' hair, skin, and costumes. Decades later, this seemingly harmless scene carries a haunting truth: inhaling or ingesting asbestos fibers can lead to severe health complications. These microscopic fibers can become permanently lodged in the body, causing inflammation, scarring, and even genetic damage. Over time, this can result in devastating illnesses such as mesothelioma—a rare and aggressive cancer—and other asbestos-related diseases.
Asbestos: The "Magic Mineral"
In the 1930s, asbestos was widely celebrated as a "magic mineral" due to its heat resistance and versatility. It was marketed for use in everything from construction materials to automotive parts—and even found its way into cinema. In The Wizard of Oz, asbestos was not only used for the fake snow but also in other props. The Scarecrow's costume was reportedly treated with asbestos to make it flame-resistant for scenes involving fire, and the Wicked Witch's broom was similarly coated to withstand close contact with flames.
At the time, asbestos manufacturers were aware of the material's health risks, but these dangers were largely hidden from the public. Tragically, the actors, crew, and countless industrial workers exposed to asbestos during this era were unaware of the long-term consequences.
Hollywood Then and Now
Movies like The Wizard of Oz and It's a Wonderful Life were made in a time when safety on film sets wasn't a priority. Asbestos was used freely, with little thought to the long-term risks. Today, things are much different. Hollywood focuses on keeping everyone safe by using better materials and modern technology.
For Wicked, director Jon M. Chu used a mix of old-school techniques and new technology. Real mud was used to make the Yellow Brick Road, and a live train was filmed for scenes in the Emerald City. These choices show how much has changed, allowing filmmakers to create magic without putting people at risk.
The Legacy of Asbestos in Louisiana
Asbestos is not just a Hollywood relic—it's a public health crisis that has deeply affected Louisiana. For decades, asbestos was a staple in shipyards, oil refineries, and construction sites across the state. Workers often unknowingly inhaled the toxic fibers and, in many cases, brought them home on their clothing, putting their families at risk.
Even today, the impact of asbestos exposure is felt in Louisiana communities, with thousands suffering from mesothelioma and other related diseases. At The Cheek Law Firm, we've seen firsthand the devastating toll asbestos takes on families. Our firm is committed to advocating for those harmed by asbestos exposure and holding negligent companies accountable for prioritizing profits over safety.
Learning from the Past
As Wicked captivates a new generation with its story of friendship and resilience, it also serves as a reminder of how far we've come—and how far we still have to go. The tale of Oz, both old and new, is a testament to imagination and progress. But it's also a call to action to address the ongoing harm caused by asbestos exposure.
If you or someone you love has been affected by asbestos, you don't have to follow the yellow brick road alone. Contact The Cheek Law Firm today to learn how we can help your family navigate this challenging journey.
