January 21

Marie Prevost was born in 1896 in Sarnia, Ontario, and moved to the United States as a child. She signed with Keystone Studios and became a popular star of silent comedy shorts, often starring opposite Harold Lloyd. With the advent of sound, Prevost transitioned into musicals, showcasing her singing talent. She appeared in dozens of films during the 1920s and 1930s, earning praise for her comedic timing and vocal performances. Off-screen, she faced personal challenges with relationships and health struggles. Her life took a tragic turn as she battled depression and the pressures of Hollywood fame. Prevost died on January 21, 1937, at the age of 40, and is remembered as a vibrant presence of early cinema's golden age.

Georges Méliès was a French illusionist and filmmaker who transformed cinema in its infancy. Born in Paris in 1861, he originally performed magic on stage before discovering the potential of motion pictures. Méliès created the first film studio, Star Film Company, and produced over 500 films, blending fantasy, science fiction, and theatrical spectacle. His landmark work, A Trip to the Moon (1902), remains an iconic example of early special effects with its imaginative design. Méliès innovated techniques like multiple exposures, time-lapse photography, hand-painted color, and narrative editing. Despite financial ruin later in life, his visionary approach laid the foundation for modern cinematic storytelling and inspired generations of filmmakers.

Carl Switzer was an American child actor born in 1927 in Paris, Illinois, who gained fame as Alfalfa in the Our Gang film series. With his trademark cowlick and off-key singing, Switzer became an iconic figure in early Hollywood comedy. He appeared in more than 80 short films and features between 1935 and 1942. After leaving acting, he worked as a hunting guide and trapper, embracing an adventurous outdoors life. Switzer’s transition from child star to guide was marked by both passion for nature and struggles with the end of his Hollywood career. His life ended tragically in 1959 under controversial circumstances. Despite his untimely death, Alfalfa remains a beloved character in American film history.

Ann Sheridan (1915–1967) was a versatile American actress who rose to stardom in the 1930s and 40s as one of Warner Bros.’ leading ladies. Her breakout performance in the film 'Kings Row' earned critical acclaim and solidified her reputation in Hollywood. Sheridan's dynamic screen presence shone in films such as 'Nora Prentiss' and 'Dive Bomber', showcasing her range from drama to action. She received a Golden Globe nomination and was celebrated for her wit and charisma both on and off screen. Sheridan's legacy endures through her memorable performances and impact on the Golden Age of cinema.

Born in 1920 in Brooklyn, New York, Lord studied painting and acting before turning to Hollywood. His film debut came in the 1956 adaptation of "The Brothers Karamazov." In 1968, he starred as Steve McGarrett in "Hawaii Five-O," a role he played for 12 seasons. He also directed and produced several episodes of the series, cementing his creative control. After the show's end in 1980, he taught acting and painting in Hawaii. Lord's portrayal of McGarrett remains a cultural touchstone in American television history.

Born in 1938 in New York City, Strasberg was the daughter of famed acting coach Lee Strasberg. She made her Broadway debut at age 17 in 1955 and quickly gained critical acclaim. In 1959, she portrayed Anne Frank in the film "The Diary of Anne Frank," earning an Academy Award nomination. Strasberg continued her career on stage and screen, including roles in theater and television. She authored several memoirs detailing her life in the entertainment industry. Her sensitive and nuanced performances influenced generations of actors.

Born in Kerala in 1918, Mrinalini Sarabhai emerged as a pioneering figure in Indian classical dance. She trained under renowned masters and developed a unique style blending tradition with contemporary themes. In 1948 she founded the Darpana Dance Company, which became a leading center for Bharatanatyam performances and education. She choreographed numerous dance dramas that explored social issues and cultural narratives. As an instructor, she nurtured generations of dancers and promoted Indian dance internationally. In recognition of her contributions to the arts, she was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1992.

Born in 1925, Kaye Ballard began her career in radio and quickly transitioned to Broadway, starring in musicals like Carnival! and The Golden Apple. Her comedic talent led to memorable television appearances on shows such as The Mothers-in-Law and Perry Como’s specials. She also performed in Las Vegas and toured internationally, captivating audiences with her distinctive voice and charm. Ballard’s versatility allowed her to excel in musical theater, sitcoms, and variety shows over a career spanning more than six decades. She became a beloved figure in American entertainment and left a lasting legacy when she passed away at 93.

Born in 1942 in Colwyn Bay, Wales, Terry Jones was a founding member of the Monty Python comedy troupe, co-writing and performing in their groundbreaking television series. He directed Monty Python films including The Life of Brian and The Meaning of Life, showcasing his sharp wit and satirical vision. Jones wrote several historical books and hosted documentaries that explored medieval history with humor. His unique blend of scholarly interest and comedic flair made him a beloved figure in both academic and entertainment circles. He continued to act, write, and direct throughout his life, earning acclaim for his contributions to comedy and film until his passing in 2020.

Born in 1953, Louie Anderson gained fame as a stand-up comedian with a warm storytelling style that resonated with audiences. He created and voiced characters on the animated series Life with Louie, earning a Daytime Emmy Award. Anderson’s portrayal of Christine Baskets in the FX series Baskets won him a Primetime Emmy Award and critical acclaim. He appeared in films, TV shows, and commercials, and wrote the bestselling memoir Hey Mom: Stories for My Mother, But You Can Read ’Em Too. Anderson’s humor often drew on family life and personal experiences, and he remained a beloved figure in comedy until his death in 2022.