March 09

Friederike Caroline Neuber, born in 1697 in Weissenfels, revolutionized theatrical performance in Germany. She insisted on rigorous rehearsals, realistic acting, and the rejection of improvisation popular in commedia dell'arte. Known as Die Neuberin, she founded her own company and toured major German cities. Neuber collaborated with playwrights like Johann Christoph Gottsched to elevate dramatic standards. Her reforms laid the groundwork for modern German classical theater. Neuber retired in 1754 after a celebrated career spanning three decades. She died in 1760 in Rostock, remembered as a trailblazer in European theater.

Born in Philadelphia, Forrest debuted professionally at age 18. He gained fame for his powerful portrayals of Shakespearean heroes such as Othello and Macbeth. His rivalry with British actor William Charles Macready fueled the deadly Astor Place Riot of 1849. A pioneer in American theater, he maintained a prolific career spanning four decades. In later years he supported fellow actors through charitable efforts, leaving a lasting philanthropic legacy.

Born Edwin Fitzgerald in New York City, Foy began his stage career as a child actor. He gained fame on the vaudeville circuit for his athletic dance moves and charismatic comedy. In the early 20th century, he formed 'Eddie Foy and the Seven Little Foys' with his children. Foy appeared in Broadway productions and made several appearances in silent films. Celebrated for his resilience and versatility, he remained active on stage for decades. His pioneering work in family-based performance influenced American variety entertainment.

Will Geer was an American actor whose career spanned stage, film, and television. He became beloved for his portrayal of Grandpa Zebulon Walton on the CBS series 'The Waltons'. Geer was a committed social activist and faced blacklisting during the McCarthy era for his political beliefs. He hosted and performed in folk music concerts and supported community theater projects. In his later years, he founded the Theatricum Botanicum, an open-air theater in California. Geer's blend of artistry and activism made him a memorable figure both on and off screen.

Born on March 9, 1921 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Betz began his acting career on stage after serving as a U.S. Marine in World War II. He appeared in several films and television anthology series before landing the role of Dr. Alex Stone in 'The Donna Reed Show' (1958–1966). Betz won the Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in 1959 for his portrayal of the affable family doctor. He later starred in the legal drama 'Judd, for the Defense' (1967–1969), earning critical acclaim. Known for his warm screen presence and versatile performances, he influenced family sitcom formats. Betz died on January 18, 1978, remembered as a beloved television figure.

Born on March 9, 1926 in Newark, New Jersey, Franklin began his broadcasting career on radio at age 14. In 1951, he launched the televised 'Joe Franklin Show' on WOR-TV, which ran for over 40 years. He interviewed thousands of guests from entertainment, politics, and sports, often rediscovering forgotten stars. Known for his encyclopedic knowledge of pop culture, Franklin cultivated a loyal local audience in New York City. He held a Guinness World Record as the longest-running television show host and influenced future talk show formats. Franklin remained active in broadcasting until his death on November 24, 2015.

Keely Smith was an influential singer and occasional actress who rose to fame in the 1950s alongside bandleader Louis Prima. Known for her cool, understated delivery, she scored hits with classics such as 'That Old Black Magic' and 'Pennies from Heaven.' Smith earned a Grammy Award in 1959 for her chart-topping recordings and captivated audiences with her charismatic stage presence. She appeared in films like 'Daddy Long Legs' and released over 20 albums across her career. Smith's duets with Prima helped define the sound of mid-century jazz-pop. She continued performing internationally for decades, leaving a legacy as one of America's most elegant vocalists.

Walter Mercado was a charismatic astrologer and television personality known for his daily horoscopes and dramatic capes. He hosted popular astrology segments across Latin America and the United States for over four decades. Mercado's blend of spiritual guidance, motivational messages, and theatrical flair earned him a devoted following. He published several astrology books and appeared in films and theater productions as an actor. Despite controversies surrounding his practice, he remained a cultural icon and pioneer in bringing astrology to mainstream media. Mercado's legacy lives on through his enduring influence on astrology broadcasting.

Joyce Van Patten is an American actress whose career spans film, theater, and television. She first gained attention in the 1950s for her engaging performances in a range of genres. Over the decades, she appeared in numerous movies and had memorable roles in popular TV series. On stage, Van Patten showcased her versatility in both comedic and dramatic productions. Her work has been praised for its warmth, wit, and emotional depth. Beloved by audiences, she has maintained a dynamic presence in the entertainment world.

Marty Ingels was an American actor and comedian celebrated for his charismatic stage presence. He appeared in television series, performed voice acting in animated projects, and toured nightclubs with his lively comedy routines. Ingels's quick wit and engaging style made him a favorite guest on talk shows and variety programs. Beyond acting, he also worked as a talent agent, championing emerging performers. His decades-long career showcased versatility across sitcoms, commercials, and game shows. Beloved by colleagues, he remains remembered for his humor and zeal on stage and screen. Ingels passed away in 2015.

Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Raul Julia trained at the Juilliard School before building a distinguished career in theater, television, and film. He starred in Off-Broadway productions of Shakespeare and musical theater, earning Tony Award nominations. On screen, Julia received acclaim for roles in films such as The Tempest, Kiss of the Spider Woman (Golden Globe nomination), and notably as Gomez Addams. His charismatic presence and versatility made him one of Hollywood's most respected actors. Julia's untimely death in 1994 cut short a promising career but his performances remain influential.

Trish Van Devere made her screen debut in the late 1960s and gained recognition for her stage work in New York. She married actor George C. Scott in 1972 and appeared alongside him in several films, including The Day of the Dolphin and The Savage Is Loose. On television, Van Devere starred in movies such as The Execution of Private Slovik and miniseries like The Last Days of Pompeii. Her nuanced performances earned critical praise, and she continued to work in film and TV into the 1990s. Van Devere's career is noted for its range and her strong on-screen presence.