January 29

Born in 1913 in Hot Springs, Arkansas, Alan Ladd rose from minor roles to stardom in the early 1940s. His breakthrough came with the film This Gun for Hire (1942), where his cool demeanor captivated audiences. Ladd's performances in films like The Glass Key and Shane solidified his status as a leading man. Known for his reserved on-screen presence and commanding voice, he became one of Hollywood's top box-office draws. Off-screen, Ladd maintained a private life that contrasted with his public persona. He died on January 29, 1964, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances in American cinema.

Freddie Prinze burst onto the comedy scene as a teenager with an energetic stand-up style that blended humor and social commentary. His portrayal of Chico Rodriguez on Chico and the Man made him one of the most popular television stars of the 1970s. Prinze also appeared in films like The Million Dollar Rip-Off, showcasing his range as a comedic actor. Despite his early success, he struggled with depression and substance abuse, leading to his untimely death at age 22. His brief but impactful career influenced a generation of comedians and remains celebrated today.

Tim McCoy (1891–1978) was an American film actor and military officer. He gained fame in the silent and early sound eras for his authentic portrayals of cowboy heroes in Westerns. A World War I veteran, he served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Army and later led the Wyoming National Guard. McCoy championed accurate depictions of Native American cultures on screen. His horsemanship and rugged persona made him a staple of B-Western productions. After leaving Hollywood, he hosted a popular radio show and lectured on military history. His legacy endures as a pioneer who bridged film and service.

Jimmy Durante (1893–1980) was an American entertainer known for his gravelly voice and distinctive big nose. Dubbed "Schnozzola," he enjoyed a career spanning vaudeville, radio, film, and television. Durante’s comedic timing and musical talents made hits like "Inka Dinka Doo" timeless. He co-starred with major film stars and hosted popular radio shows in the 1930s and 1940s. On TV, he charmed audiences with his warmth on The Jimmy Durante Show. His genuine goodwill and catchphrases left a lasting mark on American comedy.

Born in 1890, Frances Goodrich began her career as a Broadway actress before discovering her passion for writing. Alongside her husband Albert Hackett, she crafted screenplays that captured audiences with their warmth and wit. Their adaptation of The Diary of Anne Frank earned them an Academy Award nomination and enduring acclaim. The pair also penned the beloved comedy Father of the Bride, which became a box office hit. Goodrich's body of work spans stage and screen, leaving a mark on Hollywood's Golden Age. She received multiple awards and nominations over her career. Her storytelling legacy continues to influence screenwriters today.

Morton DaCosta was born in 1914 and began his career as an actor on Broadway in the 1940s. He transitioned to directing and produced acclaimed stage hits including The Music Man and Plain and Fancy. DaCosta made his film directorial debut with the screen adaptation of Auntie Mame in 1958, earning critical praise. His 1962 film version of The Music Man solidified his reputation as a skilled adapter of stage musicals to the screen. In addition to directing, he wrote scripts and occasionally appeared on camera. DaCosta's work helped define the movie musical genre during Hollywood's mid-century golden age. He passed away in 1989, leaving behind a legacy of beloved theatrical and cinematic productions.

Born Mary Lou Hennessy in 1918 in Minnesota, Lili St. Cyr rose to fame as one of the most celebrated burlesque artists of the 1940s and 1950s. She performed sold-out shows at venues like the Follies Bergère in Las Vegas, captivating audiences with her elegant costume changes and dramatic lighting. St. Cyr graced the covers of magazines such as Esquire and Life, becoming a symbol of mid-century glamour. Beyond burlesque, she produced her own stage shows and was a shrewd businesswoman who controlled her artistic image. Her memoirs offered a candid look at the entertainment industry's golden era. St. Cyr's influence extended to modern burlesque revivalists and pop culture. She died in 1999, leaving a legacy as a trailblazer of performance art.

Born in 1914 in Nova Scotia, Harold Russell served in the Canadian Army during World War II. He suffered severe hand injuries during training and lost both hands. Despite his disability, he transitioned into acting and gave a powerful performance in The Best Years of Our Lives (1946). Russell won two Academy Awards, including a competitive acting award and an honorary Oscar for his contribution to disabled veterans. He became an advocate for veterans and a symbol of courage, raising awareness about war injuries. Russell's legacy endures as both a celebrated actor and a dedicated champion for people with disabilities.

Born in 1944, Walker Boone had a diverse career in theatre before moving into voice acting. He famously voiced the iconic character Mario in The Adventures of Super Mario Bros. 3 and Super Mario World. His energetic performances brought new life to the beloved video game plumber. Boone's work extended to commercials, television, and stage productions. He remained active in acting until his passing in 2021, remembered by fans for his distinctive voice.

Howard Hesseman was an American actor whose career spanned over five decades. He gained fame portraying the laid-back and irreverent DJ Johnny Fever on the CBS sitcom 'WKRP in Cincinnati'. He showcased his versatility through roles in film, television, and theater, including appearances in 'This Is Spinal Tap' and 'Head of the Class'. Hesseman's work earned him praise for his unique comedic timing and nuanced character portrayals. He continued to act in supporting roles on popular TV series, leaving a lasting impact on American pop culture.