February 18

Born in San Francisco in 1866, James J. Corbett rose to fame in the ring with his refined, tactical approach to boxing. In 1892, he defeated the legendary John L. Sullivan to become the second official world heavyweight champion. Corbett’s emphasis on footwork and defense revolutionized the sport and set a new standard for boxers. After losing his title in 1897, he transitioned to the stage and silent films, appearing in early motion pictures. His dual legacy as a pioneering athlete and performer secured his place in both sports and entertainment history.

Born on October 7, 1905, in Flagstaff, Arizona, Andy Devine began his entertainment career in vaudeville and radio. He transitioned to Hollywood in the 1930s, appearing in over 400 films and television shows with his trademark gravelly voice. Devine gained fame in classic Westerns such as Stagecoach (1939) and later in Disney's The Adventures of Bullwhip Griffin (1967). He also starred in the NBC western series Rawhide and guest-starred in numerous TV dramas and comedies. Off screen, Devine was beloved for his friendly personality and support of fellow actors, becoming a recognizable Hollywood character. His enduring career made him one of the most prolific and distinctive supporting actors of his era.

Flavio Bucci was an acclaimed Italian actor and voice actor whose career spanned film, television, and theater. Born in Turin, he gained prominence for his role in Liliana Cavani's film 'The Night Porter', earning critical praise. Bucci's dynamic acting style and deep voice made him a sought-after performer in Italian cinema and dubbing. On stage, he collaborated with renowned directors and brought complex characters to life. He lent his voice to Italian-language versions of international films and animated features. Bucci received multiple awards for his theatrical work and left a lasting impact on Italian arts. He continued acting until his death in 2020, remembered for his dedication to his craft.

Gene Hackman was a celebrated American actor whose career spanned over five decades. He won two Academy Awards, including Best Actor for 'The French Connection' and Best Supporting Actor for 'Unforgiven'. Hackman is renowned for his intense character portrayals in films like 'Bonnie and Clyde', 'The Conversation', and 'Hoosiers'. His versatility allowed him to excel in dramas, thrillers, and comedies, making him one of Hollywood's most respected actors. In addition to acting, Hackman authored several novels and was honored with lifetime achievement awards from the Screen Actors Guild and the American Film Institute. He passed away on February 18, 2025, leaving a legacy of unforgettable performances.