February 20

Born in 1906 in New York City, Gordon began his career in radio during the 1930s. He rose to fame for character roles in 'Our Miss Brooks' and 'The Great Gildersleeve.' Gordon frequently supported Lucille Ball in 'I Love Lucy' spin-offs and other TV comedies. His authoritative voice and impeccable timing made him a beloved figure in broadcast comedy. He transitioned seamlessly to television in the 1950s and performed into the 1980s. Gordon’s professionalism and versatility continue to be celebrated by fans and historians.

John Charles Daly was born in Johannesburg, South Africa, in 1914 and emigrated to the United States as a child. He began his journalism career at CBS where he became one of the first news anchors in the early days of television. Daly hosted the popular panel show "What's My Line?" from 1950 to 1967, earning acclaim for his wit and poise. He also covered major events such as the Korean War, the Nuremberg Trials, and presidential elections. After the quiz show, he continued in radio and television news, moderating debates and anchoring broadcasts. Daly's calm demeanour and journalistic integrity set a standard for future TV hosts. He died in 1991, remembered as a trailblazer in broadcast journalism.

Jean Erdman was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, in 1916. She studied dance under Martha Graham and Ted Shawn, developing a unique style that fused modern technique with theatrical narrative. In 1942, she formed her own dance theatre company and premiered works like "The Transformations of Medusa," which drew on Greek myths. Erdman collaborated with scholars and artists, including mythologist Joseph Campbell, to explore archetypal themes. Her choreography toured internationally and influenced the evolution of narrative dance. She also taught and mentored young dancers throughout her long career. Erdman lived to be 103, passing away in 2020 and leaving a lasting impact on modern dance.

Rena Vlahopoulou began her career in the Greek variety theater during the 1930s, winning audiences over with her singing and comedic charm. She rose to prominence in post-war Greek cinema, starring in musicals and romantic comedies that became classics. Her distinctive voice and charismatic stage presence made her one of Greece's most cherished entertainers. She toured extensively throughout Europe and the Americas, bringing Greek musical theater to international stages. Over her career she received numerous awards for her contributions to the arts and remained active until her passing in 2004.

Born into the prominent Vanderbilt family, Gloria Vanderbilt became a fixture of American high society and the subject of famous custody battles as a child. She launched a successful fashion career in the 1970s, creating the iconic line of designer jeans that bore her name. Vanderbilt also pursued acting, appearing a handful of times on screen and stage. As a writer and journalist, she published novels, a memoir, and a popular syndicated column. In later years she was known as the mother of journalist Anderson Cooper and continued philanthropic work until her death in 2019.

Sidney Poitier was born in Miami, Florida in 1927 and raised in Nassau, Bahamas. He began acting on stage before breaking into Hollywood films in the 1950s. Poitier starred in landmark movies such as The Defiant Ones, for which he won the Academy Award in 1963. His performances challenged racial barriers, making him a Hollywood icon and civil rights advocate. He later directed films and served as the Bahamian ambassador to UNESCO. Poitier received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009. He continued to inspire audiences with his dignified presence until his death in 2022.

Amanda Blake was born Beverly Louise Neill in 1929 in Buffalo, New York. She adopted the stage name Amanda Blake and rose to fame for her role as Miss Kitty Russell on the long-running television western Gunsmoke from 1955 to 1974. Blake's portrayal of the strong, independent proprietor of the Long Branch Saloon made her a fan favorite. Beyond television, she appeared in films and advocated for animal welfare, founding an animal sanctuary. Blake received multiple TV award nominations and remained engaged with Gunsmoke fans through conventions and appearances. She died in 1989, leaving an indelible mark on classic American television.

Marj Dusay was born in 1936 in Russell, Kansas and began her career on the stage. She appeared in films such as 'Airport' (1970) before finding television fame. Dusay portrayed powerful women in soap operas, including Alexandra Spaulding on 'Guiding Light' and Genevieve Atkinson on 'The Young and the Restless'. Her performances earned her critical acclaim and a loyal fan following. Dusay also made guest appearances on primetime shows and continued acting into the 2000s. She was admired for her versatility and commanding presence. Dusay passed away in 2020, leaving behind a legacy in daytime television.

Born in Texas in 1936, Larry Hovis began his career singing with folk ensembles and later moved to Los Angeles to pursue acting. In 1965, he earned widespread acclaim for his portrayal of the resourceful Sergeant Andrew Carter on Hogan's Heroes. His musical talents and comedic flair made him a standout member of the ensemble cast. Following the show's end in 1971, Hovis appeared in various television series and stage productions, showcasing his versatility. He also directed episodes for several TV programs and continued to perform occasionally on stage. Hovis passed away in 2003, remembered as a charming entertainer who bridged music and comedy.

Born in Chillicothe, Ohio in 1937, Nancy Wilson rose to prominence in the late 1950s as a versatile vocalist comfortable with jazz, R&B, pop, and soul. She earned critical acclaim for her work with the Cannonball Adderley Quintet before launching a successful solo career. Wilson recorded over 70 albums, delivering hits such as 'Guess Who I Saw Today' and 'Witchcraft.' She received three Grammy Awards and multiple Grammy nominations over her five-decade career. In addition to music, Wilson appeared in television specials and films, showcasing her acting talent. Her smooth phrasing and emotive delivery influenced generations of singers. Wilson passed away in 2018, leaving a lasting legacy in both music and entertainment.

Lew Soloff was born on February 20, 1944, in Brooklyn, New York. He studied at the Juilliard School and quickly gained recognition for his virtuoso trumpet playing. Soloff joined the jazz-rock band Blood, Sweat & Tears in 1970, contributing to their Grammy-winning sound. He recorded as a leader and side musician across jazz, pop, and classical genres, showcasing his versatility. Soloff also composed music for film and television, expanding his creative reach. His playing appeared on recordings by artists like Jaco Pastorius and Horace Silver. He passed away in 2015, leaving a legacy as one of jazz's most dynamic brass voices.

Brenda Blethyn was born on February 20, 1946, in Ramsgate, England. She trained at the Guildford School of Acting before establishing herself in theatre during the 1970s. Blethyn received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for her role in Mike Leigh's Secrets & Lies. She won a BAFTA Award for her portrayal of a grieving mother in the same film. Her diverse career spans roles in films like Little Voice and TV series such as Vera, where she stars as DCI Vera Stanhope. Blethyn's nuanced performances are celebrated for their emotional depth and authenticity.