Claim: Saratoga includes actors.

Margaret Brainard Hamilton -LRB- December 9 , 1902 -- May 16 , 1985 -RRB- was an American film character actress best known for her portrayal of the Wicked Witch of the West in Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer 's classic film The Wizard of Oz -LRB- 1939 -RRB- .   A former schoolteacher , she worked as a character actress in films for seven years before she was offered the role that defined her public image . The Wicked Witch of the West was eventually ranked number four in the American Film Institute 's 2003 list of the 50 Best Movie Villains of All Time , making her the top-ranking female villain . In later years , Hamilton made frequent cameo appearances on television sitcoms and commercials . She also gained recognition for her work as an advocate of causes designed to benefit children and animals , and retained a lifelong commitment to public education .