March 04

Lucille La Verne was a prominent American actress known for her stage and silent film performances. Her deep, commanding voice brought Disney's first feature villain, the Evil Queen in 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' (1937), to life. With a career spanning vaudeville, Broadway, and early Hollywood, La Verne captivated audiences with her dramatic flair. She appeared in over 30 films between 1915 and 1939, showcasing a wide range of captivating roles. Her legacy endures in animation history, setting a standard for voice acting in cinema.

Antonin Artaud was a central figure in avant-garde theatre and literature. He developed the concept of the Theatre of Cruelty, aiming to shock audiences out of complacency through visceral performances. Artaud's experimental plays and writings challenged conventional dramatic structures and performance norms. He acted in stage and film productions, bringing intensity and physicality to every role. Despite his struggles with mental health, his theories profoundly influenced modern theatre and performance art. Artaud's legacy endures in contemporary experimental theatre and performance theory.

Born in London in 1905, Torin Thatcher later moved to the United States, where he became a prolific character actor. His deep voice and aristocratic bearing made him a favorite for villainous or authoritative roles on stage and screen. Thatcher appeared in films such as The 7th Voyage of Sinbad, The Ghost and Mrs. Muir, and The Sea Hawk. In addition to his film work, he performed on Broadway and in radio dramas, showcasing his versatile talent. Over a career spanning four decades, he left an indelible mark on Hollywood's golden age. He died in 1981, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances.

Born in Toronto, Candy rose to fame on the sketch show SCTV in the late 1970s. He starred in classics like Planes, Trains and Automobiles, Uncle Buck, and Cool Runnings. Known for his generous spirit and improvisational style, he became a fan favorite in Hollywood. Candy also appeared in animated films as a voice actor and produced television projects. He died unexpectedly at age 43, but his work continues to inspire comedians and audiences worldwide.

Born Sarah Ophelia Colley in Louisiana, she created the character Minnie Pearl for the Grand Ole Opry. Her trademark greeting 'Howdy! I'm just so proud to be here!' became legendary. She entertained audiences for decades with humor that celebrated rural American life. Pearl appeared on television, in films, and on stage, becoming a symbol of country comedy. Her legacy endures as a pioneering female performer in country music entertainment.

Del Close began his career in Chicago's burgeoning improv scene in the 1960s. He co-founded the legendary Second City Theatre and later helped establish the ImprovOlympic. Close mentored generations of comedians, including members of Saturday Night Live and comedy troupes like The Groundlings. Known for his bold and unorthodox teaching style, he emphasized honesty and authenticity in performance. He also appeared in films and TV, showcasing his improvisational talents on screen. Close's influence endures through his published works on improv theory and the countless performers he inspired. He passed away in 1999, leaving a lasting legacy in comedy education.

Moore began his career on the Canadian stage before moving to Hollywood in the 1940s. He appeared in supporting roles in film and gradually transitioned to directing and assistant directing. Moore worked on major productions, including action and Western films, collaborating with stars like John Wayne. His expertise in second-unit direction and shoot logistics earned him recognition behind the camera. He later moved into television, directing episodes across emerging series. Moore's versatile talents left a mark on both Hollywood's Golden Age and early television.

Luke Perry was an American actor who rose to fame portraying Dylan McKay on the hit TV series Beverly Hills, 90210 from 1990 to 1995. Born in Mansfield, Ohio, in 1966, he became a teen idol and earned acclaim for his brooding charm. He appeared in films including Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1992) and co-starred in television dramas such as Oz and Jeremiah. In 2017, he began starring as Fred Andrews on the CW series Riverdale, introducing him to a new generation of viewers. Perry was also active behind the scenes, producing and supporting various charitable causes. His sudden death in 2019 at age 52 prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues who remembered his warmth and talent.