Top 10 Times The Wizard of Oz Invaded Other Media

Top 10 Times The Wizard of Oz Invaded Other Media

Welcome to MsMojo, and today we’re counting down our picks for the times “The Wizard of Oz’s” Yellow Brick Road veered off into other films and TV shows

#10: “The Strangest Dream…”
“Buffy the Vampire Slayer” (1997-2003)

In this mind-bending episode, the Scooby Gang finds themselves thrust into their worst nightmares come to life, all thanks to Billy, a kid in a coma. His personal terrors materialize in the real world, setting off a chain of events where our heroes must confront their deepest fears head-on. Still, it’s Billy who holds the key to setting things right. As he awakens, he delivers a version of Dorothy’s classic line from when she wakes up from her Ozian dream. Everyone’s relieved to see Billy awake, and we’re sure he was glad to get out of the hospital because, well, “There's no place like home.”

#9: Zelena Flies into Town
“Once Upon a Time” (2011-18)

As with many beloved fictional characters, “Once Upon a Time” reimagines the Wicked Witch of the West’s backstory and the events that led her to wickedness. This fresh take is a goldmine of nods to the original tale, from the famous magic slippers to the nightmarish winged monkeys. We travel through her past, encountering familiar sights like poppies, cyclones, and the winding Yellow Brick Road. Only now, she’s seeking a brain and heart for her sinister time-travel scheme. Perhaps the one thing missing from the 1939 “The Wizard of Oz” movie was an epic villain number. Yet, we can think of one that fits the bill perfectly should the film ever be remade.

#8: Mrs. Deagle
“Gremlins” (1984)

Mrs. Deagle is a mean-spirited wealthy resident of Kingston Falls who owns multiple properties and uses her stature to mistreat others. Sound familiar? She's got a bone to pick with Billy's dog, Barney, blaming him for property damage and threatening to take him away. But Barney's not having it. Mrs. Deagle's icy demeanor and vendetta against the pooch remind you of anyone? Miss Almira Gulch, perhaps? While Auntie Em might be hesitant to give Miss. Gulch a piece of her mind; the Gremlins have a different approach to Mrs. Deagle. Let's just say they're not too concerned about her feelings. Or any other part of her, quite frankly.

#7: “I’m Melting!”
“Who Framed Roger Rabbit” (1988)

The Wicked Witch melting is such an iconic scene that it’s been parodied endlessly. Perhaps, like Donkey in “Shrek 2,” you’ve also used this line when caught off-guard during a sudden downpour. Or maybe you’ve pulled off a convincing impression of Jack Nicholson’s Joker? However, one of our favorite uses of the famous line comes from the late 80s comedy “Who Framed Roger Rabbit.” In the final showdown, Eddie, Roger, and Jessica discover that the villainous Judge Doom is a toon. His demise is fittingly brought about by toon-melting dip. As he fades into the spillage, his last words pay homage to this unforgettable moment in cinematic history.

#6: “Fly, My Pretties! Fly, Fly!”
“The Hunchback of Notre Dame” (1996)

Quick: What’s the Wicked Witch’s famous line when she sends her flying monkeys after Dorothy? “Fly My Pretties,” you say? Listen again. Don’t worry, you’re not the only one to misremember it; just ask “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” screenwriters. When Judge Frollo tries to seize the Cathedral, the gargoyles join the fight to free their home. In one such moment, Laverne calls out to some winged companions— pigeons; flying monkeys hadn’t suddenly swarmed Paris— and instructs them to go after Frollo’s army. You can even hear similar music in the background. And hey, maybe Laverne really did consider the pigeons to be “[her] pretties;” who are we to judge?

#5: Munch-i-kens
“Sanford and Son” (1972-77)

In this episode, Grady unwittingly serves up a salad garnished with what he thinks is just harmless wild parsley to a couple of cops. Lamont suspects that the herbs were plucked from, let’s call it, the special part of the garden and ushers Grady to the kitchen to figure out what to do. However, Grady gets mixed up between a habit usually linked to those who munch on, um, wild parsley and those who reside in Munchkinland. It’s a hilarious misunderstanding that leads Grady down a “Wizard of Oz” rabbit hole. Even as they return to the living room to check out the situation, Grady’s mind keeps skipping down that yellow brick road.

#4: There’s No Place Like “Full House”
“Full House” (1987-95)

“Full House” loves a “The Wizard of Oz” reference! For instance, in season one, after a thunderstorm disrupts movie night, Joey acts out a mini-version of the 1939 classic. Then there’s the time he pulls out his best Scarecrow impression while Jesse tries to brush up on literature for a fancy event he’s attending with Becky. Jesse’s not too amused. There’s also the time Joey tries to ease Stephanie’s anxieties with his best Lollipop Guild impersonation. Oh, and remember when Michelle tells her dad about the animals she saw at the zoo? If you love “The Wizard of Oz” nods, there’s no place like “Full House” to find ’em.

#3: Yzma’s Potion Filing System
“The Emperor's New Groove” (2000)

After a long and rocky adventure, Kuzco and Pacha finally make it to Yzma’s lair. They rummage through her potion collection in search of the one that will transform Kuzco back into a human. Now, most people might organize their potions by color, shape, size, or alphabetical order, but not Yzma. No, her potions are arranged in a way that sets up the perfect punchline. It’s so clever and quick that only true fans of “The Wizard of Oz” might catch it at first. “The Brave Little Toaster” offers a similar gag when Radio teases Blankie as they venture into the ominous dark forest.

#2: “Sounds Like Something Out of ‘The Wizard of Oz’”
“Good Morning, Vietnam” (1987)

Robin Williams was perfectly cast as Adrian Cronauer in “Good Morning, Vietnam.” Cronauer’s radio show, famous for its fearless humor and unforgettable greeting, found its perfect match in Williams’ quick wit. In his debut broadcast, he takes an unexpected turn into “The Wizard of Oz,” hilariously blending references to the film with the backdrop of Vietnam. He throws in everything: Munchkins and witches, and Toto, too. The result is a whirlwind of humor that showcases Williams’ unmatched comedic brilliance. It’s a real treat, especially for fans of “The Wizard of Oz.” It earned Williams a Best Actor Oscar nomination and the approval of the real Cronauer.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

“Ding Dong,” “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” (2013-21)
Captain Holt Is As Happy About Wuntch’s Demise as a Munchkin Spotting Dorothy’s House on the Wicked Witch of the East

Oreo Guards, “Wreck-It Ralph” (2012)
Ore-o Listening to What They’re Chanting?

“There’s No Place Like Home,” “Toy Story” (1995)
Maybe If He’d Clicked His Spurs Together, He’d Be Back in Andy’s Room in 2 Seconds

“Begone Before Someone Drops a House on You,” “The Nanny” (1993-99)
C.C. Even Glances Up As If She Actually Expects a House to Come Crashing Through the Sheffields’ Ceiling

Dorothy Finds a Toto, “The Golden Girls” (1985-92)
There’s No Place Like the Personals…

#1: “My Way Home”
“Scrubs” (2001-10)

In this homage to the 1939 flick, JD struggles to get home after he’s called into work on his day off. Meanwhile, Elliot doubts her endocrinology knowledge, Turk convinces a family to decide on organ donation, and Carla wrestles with courage after caring for Dr. Cox and Jordan’s son, Jack. Yet the real brilliance lies in the details. There are plenty of cleverly woven-in quotes, nods to real and fictional figures from Oz, and some stellar song choices. The episode was praised for its impeccable balance of humor and heart when “Scrubs” received the Peabody Award in 2006. Indeed, this episode is like finding a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.

What’s your favorite “Wizard of Oz” reference? Leave your comments and quips and quotes (oh my!) down below.