As Wicked continues its reign at the box office, another piece of The Wizard of Oz history has captured headlines. Judy Garland’s iconic ruby slippers, worn by Dorothy in the 1939 classic, have sold for an unprecedented US$32.5 million at auction. This sale establishes the shoes as the most expensive piece of movie memorabilia ever, surpassing Marilyn Monroe’s famed white halter dress from The Seven Year Itch.

The staggering price highlights the enduring cultural significance of The Wizard of Oz. While high-profile auctions are no stranger to record-breaking figures, this sale far exceeds benchmarks in adjacent markets. For instance, Michael Jordan’s “Dynasty Collection” — a set of six game-worn Air Jordans from his championship-winning games — sold for $8 million in February 2024.

The sale coincides with a resurgence of interest in The Wizard of Oz, fueled in part by the success of Wicked. The Broadway hit-turned-blockbuster has spurred a wave of tie-ins across industries. Nike is among those joining the trend, announcing a December release of Wizard of Oz-themed SB Dunks. Inspired by Dorothy’s ruby slippers and other elements of the film, the sneakers are expected to generate significant buzz.

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