Originally a dancer, Ebsen began his film career in "Broadway Melody of 1936." He also appeared as a dancer with child star Shirley Temple in "Captain January" (1936). Ebsen was also chosen to appear in "The Wizard of Oz", originally as the Scarecrow, and before filming began his role was changed to the Tin Man, but he fell seriously ill during filming due to the aluminum dust in his makeup and was forced to drop out. He appeared with Maureen O'Hara in "They Met in Argentina" (1941) and June Havoc in "Sing Your Worries Away" (1942). In "Breakfast at Tiffany's" (1961), he portrayed Doc Golightly, the much older husband of Audrey Hepburn's character. Before his starring role in "The Beverly Hillbillies", Ebsen had a successful television career, the highlight of which was his role as Davy Crockett's sidekick, George Russell, in Walt Disney's "Davy Crockett" miniseries (1953–54).