March 02

Léo-Ernest Ouimet (1877–1972) was a pioneering Canadian filmmaker and exhibitor who opened Canada’s first dedicated movie theatre in 1906. He produced and directed numerous silent shorts, bringing early film to Montreal audiences. Ouimet founded the Ouimetoscope, a landmark venue showcasing domestic and imported films. Despite financial struggles, his passion laid the groundwork for Canada’s nascent cinema industry. He is remembered as the 'father of Canadian cinema' for his visionary role in film exhibition and production.

Randolph Scott (1898–1987) was an American actor who became a stalwart of Hollywood Westerns. He starred in over 100 films, including classics like 'Ride Lonesome' and 'The Tall T.' Known for his stoic screen presence and understated charm, Scott epitomized the cowboy hero. After World War II, he focused almost exclusively on Westerns, shaping the genre’s golden era. His enduring popularity and professionalism left a lasting mark on American cinema.

Serge Gainsbourg (1928–1991) was a provocative French singer-songwriter, actor, and director. He revolutionized French pop music with hits like 'Je t'aime... moi non plus' and 'La Javanaise.' His witty, often controversial lyrics challenged social norms and censorship. Gainsbourg also appeared in films and directed features such as 'Charlotte for Ever.' His eclectic style fused jazz, reggae, and rock, inspiring countless artists across Europe.

Sandy Dennis (1937–1992) was an American actress renowned for her sensitive and neurotic characters. She won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in 'Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?' (1966). Dennis also earned two Tony Awards for her Broadway performances. Her film credits include 'Up the Down Staircase' and 'The Out-of-Towners.' Her distinctive voice and emotive style made her a memorable presence on stage and screen.

Born in Durham, North Carolina, Morris made her mark on Broadway with a Tony-nominated performance in the musical 'Nine'. She brought her talents to film, most notably as Molly Abrams in Paul Verhoeven’s 'Showgirls', and to television guest appearances. A triple threat of acting, singing, and dancing, her vibrant stage presence earned widespread acclaim. Beyond the stage and screen, she appeared in commercials and music videos, showcasing her versatility. Morris died in 1994 at age 50, remembered for her dynamic contributions to musical theater and film.

Born in Joliet, Illinois, in 1916, McCambridge built a versatile career spanning stage, film, and radio. She won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Sadie Burke in 'All the King's Men' (1949). Later, she captivated horror fans with her uncredited but chilling vocal performance as the possessed Regan MacNeil in 'The Exorcist' (1973). McCambridge was also a respected radio actress before transitioning to Hollywood, showcasing a rich, commanding voice. Her strong-willed personality and commitment to her craft made her a distinctive presence on screen. She died in 2004, remembered for her powerful performances and vocal intensity.

Billy Herrington (1969–2018) was an American model and adult film actor who became a cultural icon in Japan's Gachimuchi fan community. Originally a competitive bodybuilder, he transitioned into adult entertainment, gaining fame under the nickname 'Aniki'. Fans in Japan remixed clips of his performances into viral videos set to electronic music. Herrington embraced his cult status, attending fan events and interacting with the online community. His untimely death in a car accident sparked an outpouring of tributes from fans around the world.

Jaclyn Jose (1963–2024) was a celebrated Filipino actress, renowned for her powerful performances in film, television, and theater. She made history in 2016 by becoming the first Filipino to win the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival for her role in Ma' Rosa. With a career spanning over three decades, she appeared in numerous acclaimed independent and mainstream films. Known for her versatility, she tackled complex characters with depth and authenticity. She also made significant contributions to Philippine television and stage productions. Her legacy continues to inspire actors in the Philippines and beyond.