1980day.year

George Tobias

(1901 - 1980)

American actor

American actor
George Tobias was an American character actor best known for his role as Abner Kravitz on the television series Bewitched and for supporting film roles.
Born in New York City, Tobias built a career as a versatile character actor in film, theater, and television. He appeared in classic films such as Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939) and voiced Honest John in Disney's Pinocchio (1940). On television, he earned fame as nosy neighbor Abner Kravitz opposite Elizabeth Montgomery in Bewitched. His charming portrayals and comedic timing made him a familiar face to mid-20th-century audiences. Tobias also performed on Broadway and radio dramas, showcasing his range across mediums. He remained active in entertainment until shortly before his death in 1980.
1980 George Tobias
1985day.year

J. Pat O'Malley

(1904 - 1985)

English-American actor and singer

English-American actor and singer
J. Pat O'Malley was an English-American character actor and singer recognized for his versatile roles in film, television, and Disney voice work.
Born in Burnley, England, he began his career on the British stage before moving to Hollywood in the 1930s. He appeared in films such as The Adventures of Robin Hood (1938) and The Music Man (1962). O'Malley lent his singing voice to Disney projects, featuring in films like Mary Poppins and The Jungle Book. On television, he made guest appearances on series including The Andy Griffith Show and Petticoat Junction. His warm vocals and affable screen presence endeared him to audiences. He continued acting into the 1980s, leaving behind a rich legacy of memorable performances.
J. Pat O'Malley
1993day.year

Lillian Gish

(1893 - 1993)

American actress

American actress
Pioneering American actress known as the First Lady of American Cinema for her roles in early silent films.
Lillian Gish (1893–1993) was an American actress whose career spanned 75 years, beginning in the silent film era. Dubbed the First Lady of American Cinema, she delivered iconic performances in D.W. Griffith's classics such as The Birth of a Nation and Broken Blossoms. Gish's expressive features and delicate portrayals helped define the art of screen acting and influenced countless performers. She smoothly transitioned to sound films and later appeared on stage and television, earning critical acclaim in each medium. Throughout her life, Gish championed the preservation of film history and left behind a legacy as one of Hollywood's most enduring stars.
1993 Lillian Gish
1998day.year

J. T. Walsh

(1943 - 1998)

American actor

American actor
American character actor known for his intense performances often portraying villains.
J. T. Walsh (1943–1998) was an American actor celebrated for his powerful supporting roles in film and television. He often portrayed menacing or authoritative characters in movies such as A Few Good Men, Breakdown, and Pleasantville. Walsh began his career on stage before transitioning to screen, where his commanding presence and versatility earned him recognition. He collaborated with directors like Rob Reiner and Paul Thomas Anderson, leaving memorable impressions even in brief appearances. Off-screen, Walsh was known for his dedication to craft and mentorship of young actors. His untimely death cut short a diverse and impactful career.
J. T. Walsh
2002day.year

Spike Milligan

(1918 - 2002)

Irish soldier, actor, comedian, and author

Irish soldier actor comedian and author
Irish comedian, actor, and writer best known as a founding member of The Goon Show.
Spike Milligan (1918–2002) was an Irish-British entertainer whose inventive humor reshaped radio comedy in the mid-20th century. As a co-creator of The Goon Show, he blended surreal sketches, poetic verses, and sound effects to influence generations of comedians. Milligan served in the British Army during World War II, drawing on his experiences in collections of comic memoirs and poetry. He also appeared in films and authored bestselling books that showcased his whimsical style and poignant reflections. Throughout his career, Milligan battled mental health issues but continued to perform, publish, and tour widely. His groundbreaking work paved the way for alternative comedy and remains celebrated for its originality.
2002 Spike Milligan
2003day.year

Fred Rogers

(1928 - 2003)

American minister and television host

American minister and television host
American television personality and Presbyterian minister, creator and host of the beloved children's series Mister Rogers' Neighborhood.
Fred Rogers was an American television host, musician, and ordained Presbyterian minister best known for creating and hosting Mister Rogers' Neighborhood. His gentle manner and thoughtful discussions helped generations of children explore complex emotions and social issues. Over its 33 seasons, the show earned numerous awards and critical acclaim. Rogers was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2002 for his contributions to children's educational programming. His legacy endures through the continued impact of his work on early childhood development and public television.
Fred Rogers
2006day.year

Linda Smith

(1958 - 2006)

English comedian and author

English comedian and author
English stand-up comedian and writer known for her sharp wit on radio and television.
Linda Smith was a beloved British comedian known for her sharp observational humor and playful insults. She was a regular on BBC Radio 4 programs such as The News Quiz and Just a Minute, endearing herself to audiences with her self-deprecating style. Smith also wrote several comedic books and performed sell-out live shows across the UK. Her thoughtful reflections on parenting and social issues added depth to her comedy. Her untimely death at age 47 prompted widespread tributes from fans and colleagues who praised her warmth and intelligence.
Linda Smith
2013day.year

Dale Robertson

(1923 - 2013)

American actor

American actor
American actor best known for his starring role as Jim Hardie in the TV western series Tales of Wells Fargo.
Dale Robertson was an American actor who rose to fame portraying Jim Hardie in the NBC western series Tales of Wells Fargo from 1957 to 1962. Born in Oklahoma in 1923, he began his career in Hollywood with minor roles and quickly became a staple of film and television Westerns. Known for his rugged charm and authentic cowboy style, he appeared in over 60 films and numerous TV shows. A licensed pilot and rodeo performer, Robertson brought real-life frontier skills to his performances. He received the Golden Boot Award in 1993 for his contributions to the Western genre. He continued to act into his later years and remained a beloved figure among Western aficionados until his death in 2013.
Dale Robertson
2015day.year

Leonard Nimoy

(1931 - 2015)

American actor

American actor
American actor and cultural icon best known for originating the role of Spock in the Star Trek franchise.
Leonard Nimoy was an American actor, director, and writer born in 1931 who achieved worldwide fame as Mr. Spock in Star Trek. He portrayed the half-Vulcan science officer with logical precision across the original series, animated series, and six feature films. Nimoy also directed two Star Trek movies and the acclaimed film Three Men and a Baby. Beyond acting, he wrote poetry, released music albums, and pursued photography exhibitions. His memoirs—’I Am Not Spock’ and ’I Am Spock’—explored his complex relationship with his most famous character. A devoted supporter of science education and humanitarian causes, he remained active in fan conventions until his death in 2015. Nimoy’s legacy endures as one of the most beloved figures in science fiction history.
Leonard Nimoy
2021day.year

Ng Man-tat

(1952 - 2021)

Hong Kong actor

Hong Kong actor
Beloved Hong Kong actor renowned for his comedic roles and memorable collaborations with Stephen Chow.
Born in 1952 in Fujian, China, Ng Man-tat moved to Hong Kong in his youth and began his acting career on television. He rose to fame in the 1980s, becoming a staple of Hong Kong cinema with his impeccable timing and warm on-screen presence. Ng is best known for his supporting roles alongside Stephen Chow, delivering iconic performances in films such as 'A Chinese Odyssey' and 'Shaolin Soccer'. Over a career spanning four decades, he appeared in over 150 film and television productions, earning praise for his versatility. Off-screen, he was admired for his humility and generosity toward fellow actors. His contributions to Hong Kong cinema have made him a cherished figure in Chinese-language film. Ng Man-tat passed away in 2021, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and heartfelt performances.
2021 Ng Man-tat