February 19

David Garrick was born in 1717 in Hereford, England, and became one of the most celebrated actors of his time. He took London by storm with his naturalistic style, moving away from the declamatory norms of 18th-century theatre. As manager of the Drury Lane Theatre, he introduced elaborate stage effects and improved set design. Garrick was also a prolific playwright and producer, adapting Shakespeare’s works and expanding the theatrical repertoire. His influence extended to theatre etiquette and audience engagement, setting new standards for acting. He retired in 1776 after a distinguished career and left a lasting legacy in the performing arts.

Lydia Thompson was born in 1838 in London and became a celebrated burlesque singer and dancer. She formed the "British Blondes" troupe, introducing risqué musical burlesque to American audiences in 1868. Thompson’s performances combined comedy, dance, and satire, challenging Victorian norms. Her success sparked a national fad for burlesque in the United States and Europe. Despite criticism for her provocative style, she influenced the development of musical theater. Lydia Thompson’s adventurous spirit paved the way for modern female performers.

Born in 1878 in Sweden, Bosse rose to fame on the Norwegian stage and later appeared in silent films. She was known for her emotive performances in Henrik Ibsen plays, including 'Ghosts' and 'The Wild Duck.' Bosse's personal life intersected with her art; she was married to playwright August Strindberg for a brief period. Her career spanned major theaters in Stockholm, Oslo, and Berlin, earning her international recognition. Bosse retired from the stage in the 1920s but continued to influence Scandinavian performing arts. She died in 1961, remembered as a trailblazer for women in theater.

Born in Lye, Worcestershire, Hardwicke trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. He made his West End debut in 1919 and gained acclaim for his Shakespearean performances. He transitioned to Hollywood in the 1930s, appearing in films such as The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1939) and The Ghost of Frankenstein (1942). Hardwicke was the first English actor to be knighted for his contributions to theater. His distinguished career spanned stage, film, and radio across five decades. He died in 1964, remembered as one of England's great classical actors.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Calhern began his acting career on Broadway in the 1920s. He gained acclaim for roles in dramas such as Julius Caesar (1953) alongside Marlon Brando. Calhern appeared in over 60 films, including The Bishop's Wife (1947) and Gilda (1946). His suave demeanor and rich voice made him a sought-after supporting actor. He was nominated for an Academy Award for his role in The Magnificent Yankee (1950). Calhern died in 1956, leaving behind a legacy of memorable character portrayals.

Born in San Francisco, Rubens began her acting career on stage before transitioning to silent films. She starred in over 40 movies, including Thais (1917) and The Twelve Months (1919). Rubens was known for her expressive eyes and graceful presence on screen. Her career was cut short by struggles with addiction, leading to her untimely death in 1931. Despite her brief career, she left an enduring mark on silent cinema. Rubens's legacy continues through her pioneering contributions to early Hollywood storytelling.

Born in Mumbai, India, Oberon moved to London at a young age to pursue acting. She gained international fame with her performance as Cathy in Wuthering Heights (1939). Oberon starred opposite legends such as Laurence Olivier, Charles Boyer, and Errol Flynn. Despite challenges related to her mixed heritage, she became one of the highest-paid actresses of the 1940s. Her notable films include The Dark Angel (1935) and Beloved Infidel (1959). Oberon continued acting on stage and screen until her retirement, passing away in 1979.

Dorothy Janis (1912–2010) was an American actress who rose to fame in the silent film era. She made her screen debut opposite Ramon Novarro in The Pagan (1929). Janis became celebrated for her expressive performances and striking screen presence. With the transition to sound films, she chose to retire from acting at the peak of her career. After leaving Hollywood, she devoted herself to marriage and family life. Janis is remembered as one of the last stars of the silent silver screen.

Dick Emery (1915–1983) was an English comedian and actor best known for his popular television variety show in the 1960s and 1970s. He created a range of memorable characters, often donning elaborate costumes and makeup to deliver his trademark humor. Emery began his career in music halls and radio before achieving national fame on television. His ability to blend slapstick with sharp wit made him a household name in Britain. Emery’s influence on British comedy can still be seen in sketch shows today.

Fay McKenzie (1918–2019) was an American actress who appeared in numerous Westerns alongside singing cowboy Gene Autry during the 1930s. She made her film debut as a child and went on to star in titles such as Cowboy and the Lady (1938). McKenzie’s on-screen charm and musical talent endeared her to audiences of the era. After retiring from Hollywood, she focused on her family and local community theater. In later life, she was recognized for her contributions to the Golden Age of Western films.

C. Z. Guest (1920–2003) was an American socialite, fashion designer, and occasional actress known for her timeless elegance. Born Lucy Douglas, she gained fame as a cover girl and hosted glamorous society events in the 1940s and 1950s. She later launched her own fashion line and became a trendsetter whose style was closely followed by celebrities and publishers. Guest also wrote a syndicated column on entertaining and horse breeding that reflected her refined interests. Her enduring influence on fashion and society earned her the nickname "The American Duchess".

Born in 1920 in Bognor Regis, George Rose made his acting debut on the West End. He became a favorite of Noël Coward and won a Tony Award for The Mystery of Edwin Drood in 1986. Rose appeared in beloved films such as Mary Poppins and The Sound of Music, often in memorable supporting roles. His versatile singing voice and comic timing made him a standout in both musical theatre and dramatic productions. He left a lasting mark on Broadway and British theatre before his death in 1988.