January 26

Grace Moore was a Tennessee-born soprano who rose to fame with her lyrical voice and charismatic stage presence. She debuted at the Metropolitan Opera in 1934 and quickly became one of its most popular stars. Moore transitioned to Hollywood in the 1930s, starring in musicals such as One Night of Love and I'll Take Romance, and earned an Academy Award nomination. Known as the Tennessee Nightingale, she bridged the worlds of opera and cinema. Tragically, her life was cut short in a plane crash during a USO tour in 1947, leaving behind a legacy of musical excellence.

Edward G. Robinson was born Emanuel Goldenberg in Bucharest and emigrated to the United States as a child. He rose to stardom with his portrayal of gangster Rico in Little Caesar (1931), a role that established his tough-guy persona. Robinson's versatile career spanned five decades, including acclaimed performances in Double Indemnity (1944) and Key Largo (1948). Off-screen, he was active in political and humanitarian causes and testified before Congress during the Red Scare. His legacy endures as one of the most memorable character actors of classic Hollywood cinema.

Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, in 1912, José Ferrer rose to fame on stage and screen with his commanding presence. He won the 1950 Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in 'Cyrano de Bergerac,' becoming the first Latino actor honored with the prize. Ferrer's diverse career spanned theater, film, and television, earning him accolades on both Broadway and Hollywood. He directed and produced several projects, showcasing his versatile talents behind the camera. As a vocal advocate for Hispanic representation in the arts, he paved the way for future generations. Ferrer passed away on January 26, 1992, leaving a lasting impact on American performing arts.

Born in Brooklyn in 1921, Abe Vigoda began his acting career on stage before breaking into film with a memorable role as Sal Tessio in The Godfather. He gained widespread fame in the 1970s for portraying the earnest Detective Phil Fish on the TV sitcom Barney Miller. The popularity of his character led to the spin-off series Fish, cementing his status as a television icon. Over a career spanning six decades, Vigoda appeared in numerous films and television shows, showcasing his versatility as a character actor. In his later years, he embraced his cult status and remained active in public appearances. He passed away on January 26, 2016, at the age of 94, and is remembered for his enduring charm and memorable performances.

Born in 1925 in Fresno, California, Mike Connors began his career with small film and television roles in the 1950s. He gained widespread recognition in 1967 when he was cast as the title character, private investigator Joe Mannix, in the series Mannix, which ran until 1975. His portrayal of the tough yet compassionate detective earned him five Emmy nominations and a dedicated fan base. Prior to Mannix, Connors appeared in Westerns and action films, often credited as Touch Connors. He continued to work in television movies and guest roles throughout his career. Connors remained active in the entertainment industry well into his later years before passing away on January 26, 2017.

Born in Chicago in 1922, Barbara Hale began her career as a model before transitioning to film with her debut in 1943. She appeared in a series of supporting roles in Hollywood films alongside stars such as Errol Flynn and Alan Ladd. In 1957, she was cast as Della Street, the resourceful legal secretary on the hit television series Perry Mason, a role that earned her a Primetime Emmy Award in 1958. Hale reprised the character in several Perry Mason TV movies from the 1980s into the 1990s. Known for her elegance and strong on-screen presence, she enjoyed a career that spanned over five decades. She passed away on January 26, 2017, at the age of 94, leaving a legacy as one of television’s most enduring leading ladies.