January 25

Born in 1921 into the Barrymore acting dynasty, Diana Barrymore made her Broadway debut in 1940. She transitioned to Hollywood with roles in films such as 'Nightmare' (1942) and 'Eagle Squadron' (1942). Despite early success, her career was hampered by personal struggles with addiction and public scandals. She candidly recounted her life in the memoir 'Too Much, Too Soon' (1957), which was later adapted into a feature film. Barrymore continued to act on stage and television intermittently until her untimely death in 1960. Her life story remains a poignant reflection on fame and adversity.

Born in 1896 in Omaha, Nebraska, Adele began performing with her younger brother Fred in vaudeville as a child. The Astaire siblings gained fame on Broadway shows such as "Lady, Be Good!" and went on to star in West End productions. Adele’s vivacious stage presence and tap dancing talent won critical acclaim. She married Lord Charles Cavendish in 1932 and retired from the stage to pursue her duties as a duchess. Despite her early departure from performing, she published her memoir "Dancing with My Brother" in 1955. Adele’s influence on dance and her legacy as part of the iconic Astaire duo remain celebrated. She passed away in 1981 in Biarritz, France.

Born in 1899 in Port Huron, Michigan, Moore began her film career in the early 1910s, quickly becoming a popular star of silent comedies and dramas. Her portrayal of modern, independent women in films like "Flaming Youth" (1923) helped define the flapper archetype and influence 1920s fashion. Renowned for her charm and style, she starred alongside actors such as Douglas Fairbanks and appeared in over 40 films. After the advent of sound, Moore retired from acting and pursued interests in banking and dollhouse miniatures. She published her memoir "Silent Star" in 1968, recounting Hollywood's golden age. Moore’s legacy lives on through her contributions to film and the iconic image of the flapper. She died in 1988, bequeathing her extensive dollhouse collection to the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago.

Ava Gardner rose to fame as one of MGM's leading ladies during Hollywood's Golden Age. Born in 1922 in North Carolina, she gained critical acclaim for performances in films like The Killers (1946) and Mogambo (1953), earning an Academy Award nomination. Her beauty and talent made her a symbol of glamour and strength. Off-screen, she was known for her high-profile marriage to Frank Sinatra and her fiercely independent spirit. Gardner's legacy endures through her memorable roles and lasting influence on film and popular culture.

Born in 1923 in Målselv, Norway, Aase Nordmo Løvberg rose to fame as a leading operatic soprano in Europe. She performed at prestigious venues such as the Royal Opera House in London and the Metropolitan Opera in New York. Her versatile voice and commanding stage presence won acclaim in roles ranging from Wagnerian heroines to Mozartian characters. In addition to her singing career, she appeared as an actress in select stage and film productions, showcasing her dramatic talents. Løvberg later dedicated herself to vocal pedagogy, mentoring young singers and shaping the next generation of opera performers. She died on January 25, 2013, leaving behind a legacy of artistry and excellence in opera.

John Hurt was born in 1940 and enjoyed a distinguished acting career spanning over six decades. He received an Academy Award nomination for his portrayal of John Merrick in 'The Elephant Man'. Hurt delivered iconic performances in films such as 'Alien' and as Mr. Ollivander in the 'Harry Potter' series. On both stage and screen, he was admired for his versatility and emotional depth. He won multiple BAFTA and Golden Globe awards and appeared in acclaimed television series like 'Doctor Who'. John Hurt passed away in 2017, leaving a lasting legacy as one of Britain's finest character actors.

Mary Tyler Moore was born in 1936 and first gained fame as Laura Petrie on 'The Dick Van Dyke Show'. In 1970, she broke new ground by starring in and producing 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show', which became a cultural touchstone. The series won numerous Emmy Awards and redefined the portrayal of independent women on television. Moore also earned an Academy Award nomination for her role in the film 'Ordinary People'. A trailblazer for women in entertainment, she championed equal opportunities behind the camera. Later in life, she devoted herself to diabetes research and animal welfare causes. She passed away in 2017, leaving an enduring legacy in television history.

Gloria Romero was born in 1933 and began her acting career in the 1950s, quickly becoming one of the Philippines' most beloved leading ladies. She delivered memorable performances in films such as 'Dalagang Ilocana' and 'Tanging Yaman', earning multiple Best Actress awards. Renowned for her versatility, she excelled in drama, comedy, and television roles. Romero received numerous lifetime achievement honors for her contributions to Philippine cinema. She mentored younger actors and remained active on screen well into her later years. Her enduring talent made her a cultural icon in Southeast Asia. She passed away in 2025, celebrated for her extraordinary legacy in film and television.