February 19

Born in 1899 in Hawaii, Madge Blake moved to Hollywood to pursue a career in acting later in life. She found steady work as a character actress, appearing in films such as 'High Noon' and 'Rio Bravo'. Blake is perhaps best remembered for her television role as Aunt Harriet Cooper on the 1960s series 'Batman'. Her warm screen presence and distinctive performances made her a favorite in both comedic and dramatic roles. Throughout her career, she worked alongside stars like Adam West, John Wayne, and Gary Cooper. Blake’s contributions to television and film left a lasting impression before her death in 1969.

Alice White (1904-1983) was a popular Hollywood actress during the transition from silent films to talkies. She made her screen debut in 'Show Girl' (1928) and quickly became known for her bubbly personality and comic timing. White often portrayed flapper characters, capturing the spirit of the Roaring Twenties. As sound technology emerged, she seamlessly moved into musical comedies, starring in films like 'Broadway Babies' (1929). Despite a promising career, contractual disputes and the changing studio system led to her retirement in the late 1930s. After leaving Hollywood, she lived a private life away from the spotlight. White’s early film work remains a testament to her lively screen presence and charm.

Born in 1921, Janet Blair began her career in the 1930s, appearing in films and Broadway productions. She gained fame for musical features like 'Tonight and Every Night' (1945) and 'My Dream Is Yours' (1949), showcasing her soprano voice and dancing skills. Transitioning to television in the 1950s and 1960s, Blair appeared in series such as 'My Three Sons.' Throughout her career, she demonstrated versatility in comedy and drama across stage, screen, and radio. Blair’s warm presence and vocal talent made her a favorite of postwar American entertainment. She continued to perform into her later years, leaving a legacy in classic Hollywood cinema and musical theatre.

Celia Franca (1921–2007) was an English-Canadian dancer and the founding artistic director of the National Ballet of Canada. She trained at Sadler's Wells and performed with the Ballets Russes de Monte Carlo before moving to Canada in 1951. Tasked with creating a national ballet company, she held auditions across the country and recruited diverse talent. Under her visionary leadership, the National Ballet gained international acclaim through innovative repertoire and tours. Franca championed both classical and contemporary works, shaping Canada's ballet identity. Over her five-decade career, she mentored generations of dancers and choreographers. Her contributions earned her the Order of Canada and the Governor General's Performing Arts Award. Franca's legacy endures in the thriving ballet community she helped establish.

Lydia Shum Din-ha (1945–2008), affectionately nicknamed 'Fei Fei', was a Hong Kong actress, comedienne, and singer. She rose to fame in the 1960s with her unique blend of humor, charm, and musical talent on television variety shows. Shum became a beloved hosting icon for her spontaneous banter and warm presence, earning widespread popularity across Asia. She appeared in numerous films and released several albums, earning acclaim for both her acting and singing. Beyond entertainment, Shum was admired for her philanthropic work and candid discussions about health. Her vivacious spirit and pioneering role for women in comedy left a lasting legacy in Asian entertainment.

Born in 1984 in Oklahoma City, Harris Wittels co-founded the comedy podcast 'Analyze Phish' before joining the writing staff of Parks and Recreation. He served as executive producer for multiple seasons, contributing fan-favorite episodes and coining the term 'humblebrag.' Wittels also appeared on-screen in comedic cameo roles and wrote scripts for other television shows. His improvisational talent was honed at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre in Los Angeles. Following his untimely death in 2015, he was celebrated for his quick wit and creative spirit, influencing peers and fans alike.

José Mojica Marins was a Brazilian filmmaker, actor, and composer famed for creating the unsettling character Zé do Caixão (Coffin Joe). Born in 1936 in São Paulo, he directed, wrote, and starred in a series of low-budget horror films beginning in the 1960s. Marins blended surreal imagery, social commentary, and macabre humor to challenge audiences and Brazilian censorship. His films, such as At Midnight I'll Take Your Soul, became cult classics and influenced horror cinema worldwide. Beyond filmmaking, he composed music for his productions and hosted television programs, cementing his status as a genre pioneer. Marins embraced controversy and artistic independence, becoming a folk hero for alternative Brazilian culture. He continued creating and appearing in films and TV until his death in 2020, leaving a unique legacy in horror.