March 18

Born in Cork, Ireland, she captivated audiences with her dramatic portrayals of Juliet and Ophelia. In 1827, she moved to Paris where her performance in Shakespeare plays inspired French Romanticism. Composer Hector Berlioz became enchanted by her stage presence, dedicating his 'Symphonie Fantastique' to her. They married in 1833, though their relationship faced personal and financial struggles. Her work introduced Shakespeare to French audiences and left a lasting impact on Romantic theater.

Born in 1886 in Brooklyn, Horton began his career in musical comedy on Broadway. He transitioned to film in the 1920s, becoming a beloved character actor known for his comic timing. He appeared in classics like 'Arsenic and Old Lace' and 'Top Hat'. His versatile talents extended to radio and television, where his distinctive voice stood out. Horton enjoyed a career spanning silent films to 1960s television, leaving a legacy of wit and charm.

Robert Donat was born in 1905 in Withington, Manchester, England. He gained critical acclaim for his portrayal of Mr. Chips in the 1939 film 'Goodbye, Mr. Chips', winning the Academy Award for Best Actor. Donat's refined performances and charismatic presence made him one of Britain's leading actors of the 1930s and 1940s. His other notable films include 'The 39 Steps' (1935) directed by Alfred Hitchcock. Despite health challenges throughout his life, Donat continued acting until his premature death in 1958. He is remembered as one of the golden era's most elegant and sensitive performers.

Smiley Burnette (1911–1967) was an American singer-songwriter and actor best known for his comic sidekick roles in Western films. He contributed original songs to the movies in which he appeared, showcasing his musical talent alongside his acting. Burnette featured his trademark comedic timing and engaging stage presence in dozens of films and radio programs. His blend of humor and country-inspired music won him a devoted following during Hollywood's Golden Age. Beyond film, he appeared on radio and television, expanding his reach as a multifaceted entertainer. His work influenced the development of country music comedy and remains a staple of classic Western entertainment.

Art Gilmore (1912–2010) was an American voice actor and announcer known for his resonant baritone. He provided narration for radio programs, television series, and documentary films. Gilmore's voice was featured in numerous movie trailers, making him a familiar presence to moviegoers. His professionalism and vocal versatility earned him prestige within broadcasting circles. Later in his career, he taught voice techniques to aspiring announcers and actors. His work helped define the role of the announcer in 20th-century media and left a lasting impact on voice artistry.

Peter Graves enjoyed a prolific career in film and television spanning over five decades. Born Peter Aurness, he changed his surname to Graves when he began acting. His breakthrough came as Jim Phelps in the popular spy series 'Mission: Impossible,' earning him widespread recognition and award nominations. He also appeared in classic comedies like 'Airplane!' and hosted the documentary series 'Mayday.' Graves directed episodes of several television shows and was praised for his commanding presence and versatility. He continued performing into his seventies, demonstrating a dedication to his craft. Throughout his life, he supported various charitable causes related to education and healthcare.

George Plimpton was an American author, editor, and actor celebrated for his immersive style of journalism known as participatory journalism. He famously pitched against professional baseball players, quarterbacked for the Detroit Lions in a preseason game, and shared his experiences in works like 'Out of My League' and 'Paper Lion.' In 1953, he co-founded The Paris Review, nurturing the careers of major literary figures through its acclaimed interviews and fiction. Plimpton also appeared in films such as 'Good Will Hunting' and 'Robot & Frank,' and made television appearances showcasing his wit. His charismatic personality and narrative skill made him a bridge between sports, literature, and celebrity culture. He authored numerous books and lectured internationally, leaving a legacy of innovation in journalism.

John Fraser was a Scottish film and stage actor whose career spanned over five decades. He appeared in notable films such as Roman Polanski's "Repulsion" (1965) and "The Trials of Oscar Wilde" (1960). Fraser also performed in theatre productions across the United Kingdom, showcasing his versatility. Known for his subtle performances and charismatic presence, he earned acclaim from critics and audiences alike. His body of work continues to inspire actors in both cinematic and theatrical arts.

Carl Gottlieb began his career as an actor, appearing in films and television series during the 1960s. He gained prominence as the co-writer of the screenplay for Steven Spielberg's "Jaws," contributing to one of cinema's most iconic thrillers. Gottlieb also served as President of the Writers Guild of America West, advocating for writers' rights. In addition to his work on "Jaws," he wrote for other notable films and television comedies. His sharp wit and insider knowledge of Hollywood have made him a respected voice in entertainment. Gottlieb continues to be active in film, television, and writing circles.

Shashi Kapoor was a third-generation member of the legendary Kapoor family, debuting as a child actor in the 1940s. He starred in over 100 Hindi films, earning praise for his charm, versatility, and natural acting style. Kapoor also worked with Merchant Ivory Productions in English-language films, gaining international recognition. In the 1980s, he founded his production company, Solar Productions, supporting avant-garde and art-house cinema. Honored with the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan, Kapoor left an indelible mark on Indian film. His contributions spanned acting, production, and theatre, making him a beloved figure in world cinema.

Kenny Lynch rose to fame in the early 1960s as one of the first black artists to achieve pop chart success in the UK. His hits included energetic covers and originals, blending rock and soul influences. Lynch also enjoyed a parallel career as an actor and comedian, appearing in film, television, and stage productions. He became a familiar face on British television, hosting variety shows and game programs. Beyond entertainment, Lynch was a trailblazer who advocated for greater diversity in the music industry. His charismatic presence and musical talent ensured a lasting legacy in British pop culture.

Machiko Soga became famous in the 1970s for her unforgettable portrayals of evil sorceresses and villains in Japanese tokusatsu shows. She originated the character Witch Bandora in "Kyōryū Sentai Zyuranger," which was adapted for Western audiences as Rita Repulsa in "Mighty Morphin Power Rangers." Soga's commanding presence and distinctive voice made her a standout performer. Over her career, she appeared in film, television dramas, and stage productions. She also lent her voice to animated characters, showcasing her versatile talent. Soga's contributions to genre television left a lasting imprint on global pop culture.