January 22

Born Rufus Edward Mackahan in 1892, Alan Hale Sr. appeared in over 200 films from the silent era through the early 1950s, earning a reputation as Hollywood's favorite sidekick. He is particularly remembered for portraying Little John in 'The Adventures of Robin Hood' (1938) alongside Errol Flynn and Olivia de Havilland. As a director, he helmed several short films and features in the 1920s, showcasing his versatility behind the camera. Hale's robust presence and comic timing made him a beloved character actor. His son, Alan Hale Jr., continued his entertainment legacy as the Skipper on 'Gilligan's Island.'

Born in London in 1890, Herbert Marshall overcame the loss of a leg in World War I to pursue a prolific acting career. He gained fame on the West End before transitioning to Hollywood, where his smooth voice and dignified demeanor made him a sought-after leading man. His standout roles include Larry Darrell in "The Razor's Edge" (1946) and Horace Giddens in "The Little Foxes" (1941). Marshall's elegance and wit off-screen matched his on-screen charm, earning him a loyal audience over four decades. He continued to captivate fans with both leading and character roles until his death in 1966.

Jean-Louis Barrault was born in 1910 in Le Luart, France and trained at the Comédie-Française. He rose to fame with his portrayal of Harlequin and founding of the Théâtre Marigny in Paris. Barrault directed groundbreaking stage adaptations of 'Ubu Roi' and 'Rabelais' that blended mime and drama. He also appeared in the acclaimed film 'Les Enfants du Paradis'. As a director, he championed ensemble work and experimental techniques. Barrault's legacy endures in modern theatre and film for his artistic daring.

Aristotelis 'Telly' Savalas was born in 1922 in Garden City, New York to Greek immigrant parents. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II before pursuing acting. Savalas gained international fame as the bald, lollipop-sucking detective Kojak from 1973 to 1978. He appeared in films such as 'The Dirty Dozen' and 'Kelly's Heroes', showcasing his tough-guy persona. Savalas also recorded spoken-word albums and appeared in commercials, becoming a pop culture icon. His charismatic style and memorable catchphrase 'Who loves ya, baby?' remain part of television history.

Roy Brown, born in 1932, was an American entertainer renowned for his work as a clown and puppeteer on television and stage. He created memorable puppet characters and engaged children with imaginative storytelling. Brown collaborated on shows that blended comedy, music, and ventriloquism, leaving a lasting impact on family entertainment. His innovative puppeteering techniques influenced a generation of performers, and he toured extensively, bringing his art to theaters and schools. Brown also taught workshops, inspiring young puppeteers to explore creative expression. He passed away in January 2001, leaving behind a legacy of joy and creativity in children's entertainment.

Ann Miller was born in 1923 in Texas and rose to stardom as a song-and-dance performer in Golden Age Hollywood. She appeared in classic musicals like 'Easter Parade', 'On the Town', and 'Kiss Me Kate', showcasing her remarkable tap-dancing speed. Known for her glamorous style and vivacious personality, Miller became one of MGM's top musical stars in the 1940s and 1950s. She also enjoyed a successful stage and television career later on, earning acclaim for her performances. Miller's influence on musical theatre and dance endures, inspiring generations of performers. She passed away in January 2004, remembered as one of the greatest female dancers in film history.

Born Pearl Elizabeth Dobbins in 1926, Liz Renay began her career as a burlesque dancer and pin-up model in the 1940s. She appeared alongside Marilyn Monroe in the film 'Ladies of the Chorus' (1948) and went on to star in cult B-movies throughout the 1950s and '60s. Renay also authored revealing memoirs that chronicled her Hollywood experiences and relationships with celebrities. In the 1970s, she ran a nightclub in Los Angeles, becoming a fixture of the city's nightlife. Her flamboyant style and resilience in facing personal and legal challenges kept her in the public eye. Renay died in 2007, remembered as a pioneering performer and candid storyteller.

Born in 1979 in Perth, Western Australia, Heath Ledger rose to fame with roles in '10 Things I Hate About You' and 'A Knight's Tale.' He received critical acclaim and a Golden Globe nomination for his portrayal of Ennis Del Mar in 'Brokeback Mountain' (2005). Ledger's career spanned a range of genres, showcasing his versatility and commitment to character depth. In 2008, his performance as the Joker in 'The Dark Knight' earned him a posthumous Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. Beyond acting, he directed music videos and short films, demonstrating a passion for creative storytelling. Ledger's untimely death at age 28 sent shockwaves through the film industry, cementing his legacy as a transformative talent.

Jean Simmons (1929–2010) was a British-born actress who began her career on the London stage as a teenager. She achieved international fame in the late 1940s with standout roles in Laurence Olivier’s Hamlet and The Happy Ending. Her performance in Hamlet earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. After moving to Hollywood, Simmons received a Golden Globe for Best Actress for her role in Elmer Gantry. She continued to shine in films like Guys and Dolls and Spartacus before transitioning to television. On the small screen, she earned a Primetime Emmy nomination for her work in the mini-series The Thorn Birds. Known for her elegance, versatility, and distinctive voice, Simmons left a lasting legacy in cinema and television.

Dick Tufeld had a distinguished career as an actor and voice artist spanning radio, television, and film. He is most famous for providing the iconic voice of the Robot (often called B-9) in the 1960s sci-fi series Lost in Space. Tufeld also served as a radio announcer and television narrator, lending his resonant voice to station identifications and documentaries. His work included voiceovers for Disneyland attractions and various science fiction programs. With his powerful baritone, Tufeld became one of the most recognizable voices in mid-20th-century American broadcasting. He continued to perform voice roles in animation and commercials well into his later years. Tufeld’s contributions to voice acting set a standard for character and narrative narration in entertainment.

Lois Ramsey was born in 1922 and enjoyed a prolific acting career spanning theatre, television, and film in Australia. She became a familiar face in popular soap operas, dramas, and comedies, where her distinctive performances and sharp comedic timing earned her acclaim. Ramsey appeared in beloved series such as "The Young Doctors" and did extensive stage work, demonstrating her range from drama to lighthearted roles. She remained an active performer well into her later years, beloved by colleagues and audiences alike. Her contributions to Australian entertainment spanned more than six decades before her passing on January 22, 2016.