The Dark and Somber Fates of ‘The Little Rascals’ Cast

At first, “The Little Rascals” were named “Our Gang”. In any case, this was one of the most beloved comedy series in history. The producer, Hal Roach, had the genius idea to film kids acting like, well, kids. This is exactly what set “Our Gang” apart from other films at the time. Audiences found the silent and sound short films hilarious for years to come. Unfortunately, a lot of the kids on the show didn’t lead happy lives. Here are the fates of some of our favorite characters along with some facts you might not have known about the series.

Carl ‘Alfalfa’ Switzer Died At 31

Just like other child actors in Hollywood, Switzer had a difficult time after his role on The Little Rascals ended. He had some small parts in big movies like It’s a Wonderful Life and TV shows like the Roy Rogers Show. However, he was forced to take odd jobs between roles to keep himself afloat. In 1959, Switzer was shot and killed while fighting a man over $50. He was 31 years old at the time. The man was ruled to have acted in self-defense when witnesses came forward and said that Switzer had threatened him with a knife. This ruling became the subject of a lot of controversies.

Failed The Auditions

Both Mickey Rooney and Shirley Temple auditioned for Our Gang. Neither of them was chosen to act in the series. Hal Roach has said that he remembered Rooney’s audition, saying he didn’t think the young actor would fit in with the rest of the gang. Temple didn’t make it past the audition either. Both of these child stars would go on to have long careers, so we’re sure they didn’t suffer from being turned down for the show. Rooney starred in TV, radio, and comedic shows until he passed away. Even though Temple retired from acting at age 22, she later became a politician and the 27th U.S. ambassador to Czechoslovakia. Both of these actors passed away in 2014, at ages 93 and 85, respectively.