Today John Fricke is 55. John Fricke is the world renowned author and expert on The Wizard of Oz and Judy Garland. I first met John in June of 1989 at the Judy Garland Fesival in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. He had just produced a great documentary, Judy Garland: The Concert Years, and was a featured guest speaker at the event. John was and is, one of the most personable and articulate people I have ever met. A group of us befriended him and spent evenings watching rare Judy Garland television appearances back at his hotel room using my old clunky VHS camrecorder. John would give us a history about the appearance and speak of Judy with great knowledge and reverence. Over the years John and I became friends and I have a special place in my heart for this man. Happy Birthday John!
There is an interesting biography and interview with John here and another here.
Recommended Books by John Fricke:
I met John in NYC in 1999. Such a warm and friendly guy. And so genuinely passionate about Judy it was infectious. I always loved her, but after hanging out with John, I really came to appreciate her in a whole new light. And that appreciation has only grown since then.
Unfortunately I had to move from NYC a few months after meeting John. But I have never forgotten his kindness and warm spirit. I konw it’s extremely late, but I’m wishing him a happy birthday anyway.