March 14

Doris Eaton Travis was an American performer who rose to fame as a dancer in the Ziegfeld Follies. She made her stage debut at age ten and appeared in silent films during the early 20th century. Travis performed in Broadway musicals and revues throughout the 1920s and 1930s. After retiring from the stage, she became a respected dance educator and co-founded a dance academy. In later life, she provided interviews and lectures on her experiences with the Follies. At the time of her death, she was celebrated as the last surviving Ziegfeld girl. Her career spanned vaudeville, film, and education, leaving a lasting legacy in performing arts.

Born in 1914, Bill Owen enjoyed a career in film and television spanning six decades. He achieved widespread fame as William "Compo" Simmonite in BBC's Last of the Summer Wine from 1973 to 2002. Off-screen, Owen was an accomplished songwriter and released several records. He also penned an autobiography that offered insights into British entertainment history. His warm comedic style and memorable character endeared him to audiences across generations.

Born in Forest Hills, New York, in 1932, Mark Murphy rose to prominence in the 1950s jazz scene with his unique scat singing and inventive vocal techniques. He recorded over 25 albums, blending bebop, Latin jazz, and ballads with his expressive phrasing. Murphy also wrote lyrics for instrumental jazz standards, collaborating with notable musicians like Bill Evans and Charlie Parker. In addition to singing, he appeared in films and television, showcasing his versatility. Murphy earned multiple Grammy nominations and was celebrated for his warm, engaging performances worldwide until his death in 2015.

Born Maurice Micklewhite in London in 1933, Michael Caine adopted his stage name early in his career. He gained international fame with performances in 'Zulu' (1964), 'Alfie' (1966), and 'The Italian Job' (1969). Over six decades, Caine has appeared in more than 130 films, earning two Academy Awards for 'Hannah and Her Sisters' (1986) and 'The Cider House Rules' (1999). Known for his professionalism and wit, he has collaborated with directors like Christopher Nolan in 'The Dark Knight' trilogy. Knighted in 2000, Caine continues to work in film and theater, inspiring actors with his longevity and talent.

Eleanor Bron (born March 14, 1938) is an English actress and screenwriter whose career has spanned film, theatre, and television for over six decades. She gained international recognition for her role as Ahme in The Beatles' film Help! and has appeared in notable features such as Bedazzled. Beyond acting, Bron has contributed to screenwriting and storytelling for British television. She has worked extensively on stage, performing in productions at the Royal Shakespeare Company and the National Theatre. Bron's insights as a writer have informed her nuanced performances, making her a respected figure in British arts. She remains active in supporting emerging talent and advocating for creative expression.

Raymond John Barry (born March 14, 1939) is an American character actor whose career spans more than fifty years on stage and screen. He has appeared in a wide range of films, from legal dramas to thrillers, delivering memorable supporting roles. Barry's notable credits include appearances in Born on the Fourth of July, Interview with the Vampire, and Training Day. On television, he has guest-starred in acclaimed series and continued to bring depth to every character he portrays. His work in theatre has earned praise for its intensity and authenticity, underscoring his dedication to the craft. Barry's versatility and commitment have made him a respected figure among directors and audiences alike.

Rita Tushingham (born March 14, 1942) is an English actress renowned for her fresh and naturalistic performances. She debuted in the groundbreaking film A Taste of Honey in 1961, earning the Cannes Film Festival Award for Best Actress as a newcomer. Tushingham became an icon of 1960s British cinema, starring in The Leather Boys and The Knack ...and How to Get It. Her work on stage and screen has spanned dramas, comedies, and television series, showcasing her range and emotional depth. Tushingham has continued acting for six decades, taking on diverse roles while advocating for social causes. Her influence endures as a symbol of authenticity and resilience in film history.

Anita Rose Morris (March 14, 1943 – 1994) was an American actress and singer celebrated for her dynamic stage presence and sultry voice. She earned a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actress in a Musical for her performance in the Broadway production Nine in 1983. Morris also appeared in films such as Ruthless People and Raw Deal, showcasing her versatility on screen. In addition to her screen and stage work, she recorded an album highlighting her jazz and pop repertoire. Morris married fellow actor Grover Dale and remained active in the performing arts community until her passing. Her bold performances and musical talent have left a lasting impression on theatre and film audiences.

Jasper Carrott is a celebrated English comedian, actor, and television host whose career spans over five decades. He gained national recognition with his sharp observational stand-up routines, leading to successful comedy albums and tours. Carrott starred in television series such as "The Detectives" and hosted popular game shows like "Golden Balls." His blend of wit, storytelling, and affable persona has made him a household name in British entertainment. Beyond comedy, he has acted in films and supported charitable causes, including cancer research and children's charities. Carrott's influence extends to mentoring young comedians through workshops and club nights. He has received awards for his contributions to comedy and continues to perform live to enthusiastic audiences across the UK.

Billy Crystal is an American actor, comedian, director, producer, and screenwriter born in 1948. He rose to fame on Saturday Night Live and in the sitcom Soap. Crystal’s film career includes iconic roles in When Harry Met Sally..., City Slickers, and The Princess Bride. He has hosted the Academy Awards nine times, becoming one of Hollywood’s most beloved emcees. Beyond acting, he co-wrote and produced the semi-autobiographical film 61*. Crystal has also enjoyed success on Broadway and as a stand-up performer. His sharp wit and affable persona have made him a fixture of American comedy for decades.

Rick Dees is an American actor and radio host born in 1950. He shot to fame with the 1976 novelty hit “Disco Duck,” which reached No. 1 on the Billboard charts. Dees later became a top radio personality, creating the syndicated Weekly Top 40 countdown in 1983. His energetic on-air style and comedic bits made him a staple of Los Angeles radio. Beyond radio, he has appeared in films and voiced characters in animated series. Dees has won multiple broadcasting awards and been inducted into radio halls of fame. He remains active as a host and entertainer, adapting to new media platforms.

Jonathan Kaufer was an American director and screenwriter born in 1955. He made his directorial debut with the 1984 comedy Bad Manners, which featured a young Rob Lowe. Kaufer also wrote screenplays for television series and films in the 1980s and 1990s. His work often blended humor with offbeat characters and situational comedy. In addition to filmmaking, he directed television commercials and industrial videos. Despite a promising start, many of his projects remained cult favorites with limited release. Kaufer’s career offers insight into the challenges of independent filmmaking during Hollywood’s changing landscape. He passed away in 2013, remembered by peers for his creative spirit and early promise.