March 16

Sydney Chaplin was an English actor who appeared in silent films alongside his brother Charlie. He later produced films and managed the family's business affairs during the 1920s. Sydney's performances in comedies showcased his timing and charisma, earning him acclaim. He played a key role in the production of 'The Gold Rush,' contributing behind the scenes as well. After retiring from film, he settled in the United States and led a private life.

Conrad Nagel was a prominent American actor whose career spanned silent films, talkies, and radio. He appeared in over 120 films, earning praise for his suave presence and versatile performances. Nagel co-founded the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and served as its president in the 1930s. Beyond acting, he hosted radio programs and early television shows, becoming a familiar voice to audiences. His contributions helped shape Hollywood's golden age and the industry's professional standards.

Henny Youngman was born in England in 1906 and emigrated to the United States as a child. He trained as a violinist and began incorporating comedy into his musical performances. Youngman became famous for his succinct, rapid-fire one-liner jokes, with classics like "Take my wife—please!" His style influenced generations of stand-up comedians and made him a fixture on television variety shows. Over a career spanning more than six decades, he performed in clubs, theaters, and youth centers across the country. Youngman also appeared in films and wrote books on comedy. He died in 1998, remembered as one of the greatest joke craftsmen in entertainment history.

Mercedes McCambridge was born in 1916 in Joliet, Illinois. She began her career in radio drama before transitioning to film, stage, and television. Her performance in the 1949 film ‘All the King’s Men’ earned her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. McCambridge was noted for her distinctive voice and intense dramatic presence. She appeared in films such as ‘Johnny Guitar’ and delivered acclaimed performances on Broadway. Later, she taught acting and wrote about her experiences in Hollywood. She died in 2004, remembered as a powerful and versatile performer.

Leo McKern was born in Sydney, Australia, in 1920 and trained at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art. He began his career on British stages before transitioning to film and television. McKern earned acclaim for his role as barrister Horace Rumpole in Rumpole of the Bailey (1978–1992), showcasing his wit and charisma. His film credits include A Man for All Seasons, for which he received critical praise, and the Beatles’ movie Help! (1965). Known for his gravelly voice and commanding presence, he appeared in over 90 film and TV productions. McKern was also an accomplished stage actor, performing in Shakespearean and contemporary roles. He died in 2002, leaving behind a rich legacy in theatre and screen.

Cornell Borchers was a Lithuanian-German actress and singer who rose to international prominence in the 1950s.\nShe began her career on the German stage before signing with RKO Pictures and appearing in Hollywood films.\nHer versatility allowed her to excel in both dramatic and musical roles, showcasing her elegant screen presence and vocal talent.\nAfter returning to Europe, she starred in a series of German-language films before retiring from acting in the early 1960s.\nBorchers maintained a private life away from the spotlight and later settled in Switzerland.\nShe passed away in Munich in 2014 at the age of 89.

Mary Hinkson was an American dancer and choreographer, celebrated as one of the first African-American principals in the Martha Graham Dance Company.\nShe joined the company in 1949 and became known for her technical mastery and expressive performances in works such as 'Clytemnestra' and 'Night Journey.'\nHer artistry broke racial barriers in modern dance and paved the way for future generations.\nIn the 1960s and 1970s, she transitioned to choreography and teaching, sharing her expertise at various institutions and dance festivals.\nHinkson received numerous accolades for her contributions to the arts and continued to inspire dancers until her death in 2014.\nHer legacy endures in the repertoire she helped create and the many students she mentored.

Jerry Lewis was an American comedian, actor, singer and filmmaker whose career spanned over seven decades.\nHe gained fame as one half of the comedy duo Martin and Lewis alongside Dean Martin, starring in hit films and nightclub acts.\nAs a solo performer, he wrote, directed and starred in classics like 'The Nutty Professor' (1963), showcasing his inventive slapstick style.\nLewis was also a pioneering television personality, hosting his own shows and variety specials.\nBeyond entertainment, he dedicated decades to charity, especially as Chairman of the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s annual Labor Day Telethon.\nHe died in 2017, leaving a lasting impact on comedy and humanitarian efforts.

Olga San Juan was an American actress, singer and dancer who rose to fame in the golden age of Hollywood musicals.\nNicknamed 'The Puerto Rican Pepper Pot,' she starred in films such as 'Meet the People' (1944) and 'Blue Skies' (1946), captivating audiences with her vivacious performances.\nShe was married to actor Edmond O’Brien and balanced her career with family life after the 1950s.\nFollowing her film retirement, San Juan appeared on television and in regional theater productions.\nShe later taught dance workshops and remained involved in the arts community.\nShe passed away in 2009, remembered for her spirited talent and contribution to classic musical cinema.

Nadja Tiller rose to prominence as one of Austria's most celebrated film stars of the post-war era. Born in Vienna, she gained international acclaim with her role in the Oscar-winning film 'The Lost One' and later in 'Das Mädchen Rosemarie.' Her versatile talent spanned drama, comedy, and musicals, and she worked with filmmakers across Europe. Tiller received numerous awards, including the German Film Award for Best Actress. Beyond film, she appeared on stage in leading roles at prestigious theaters. She also authored an autobiography reflecting on her artistic journey and personal life. Her elegance, depth of emotion, and enduring screen presence left a lasting mark on European cinema.

Born in Madrid in 1935, Teresa Berganza studied at the Madrid Royal Conservatory before making her operatic debut in 1957 at the Palacio de la Ópera. She gained international acclaim for her elegant vocal technique, particularly in mezzo-soprano roles such as Rossini’s Rosina and Bizet’s Carmen. Berganza appeared on major opera stages worldwide and collaborated with legendary conductors including Herbert von Karajan. In addition to her singing career, she took on acting roles in musical films and television productions. A recipient of Spain’s Prince of Asturias Award, she remained a beloved cultural icon until her passing.

Born in Ashland, Kentucky in 1941, Chuck Woolery began his career as a musician with the folk band The Bordermen. He transitioned to television and became the original host of 'Wheel of Fortune' from 1975 to 1981. Woolery gained further fame hosting 'Love Connection' for over a decade and later 'Scrabble' and other game shows. His warm personality and quick wit made him a beloved figure on daytime TV. Beyond hosting, Woolery pursued music and activism, often speaking on political issues. He remained a recognizable entertainment figure until his death in 2024.