March 22

Born in 1884, Lyda Borelli emerged as one of Italy's most luminous theatrical talents before transitioning to silent cinema. Her expressive performances and striking beauty captivated audiences in landmark films of the 1910s, where she became a symbol of elegance and emotion. Borelli's roles helped elevate the status of film as an art form in Italy, influencing both fashion and acting techniques of the era. After retiring from the screen, she left behind a legacy as a pioneer of Italian cinema. Borelli passed away in 1959, remembered for her trailblazing contributions to performance art.

Born Leonard Marx in 1887, Chico Marx gained fame alongside his brothers for their groundbreaking comedy acts on stage and screen. Adopting a charmingly faux Italian persona, he delighted audiences with rapid-fire piano solos and playful banter. Chico starred in classic films such as 'Animal Crackers,' 'Duck Soup,' and 'A Night at the Opera,' contributing to some of the era’s most enduring comedies. His musical talent and comedic timing made him a beloved figure in entertainment. After retiring from film in the 1950s, he pursued business interests until his death in 1961, leaving a lasting legacy in comedic arts.

Joseph Schildkraut (1896-1964) was born in Vienna into a theatrical family. He transitioned from European stages to Hollywood, bringing a refined acting style to film. In 1937, he won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role as Dreyfus in The Life of Emile Zola. Schildkraut excelled in both dramatic and comedic roles across stage, film, and early television. His career spanned silent cinema to television anthology programs, showcasing his versatility. He is remembered as one of the first European actors to achieve major success in America.

Ruth Page (1899-1991) was born in Indianapolis and trained in classical ballet. She danced with major companies and became the first American prima ballerina at the Metropolitan Opera. Page founded her own Chicago-based ballet company and created innovative works blending dance with narrative. Her collaborations with composers and visual artists shaped a uniquely American ballet style. Throughout her career, she championed training programs that nurtured future generations of dancers. Page's legacy endures in the repertoire of American ballet companies today.

Madeleine Milhaud (1902-2008) was born into a culturally rich family in France. She pursued acting at the Comédie-Française and performed in numerous stage productions. As a composer, she collaborated on radio dramas and chamber works, often blending spoken word with music. Milhaud was married to composer Darius Milhaud and frequently interpreted his compositions on stage. Her career spanned over eight decades, reflecting the evolution of French performing arts. She remained active into her centenarian years, witnessing key cultural shifts in 20th-century France.

Born in Dublin in 1912, Wilfrid Brambell enjoyed a versatile career on stage, film, and television. He gained international fame as the gruff yet endearing rag-and-bone man Albert Steptoe in Steptoe and Son (1962–65), which became a defining example of British television comedy. Brambell also appeared in films such as A Hard Day's Night, where he played Paul McCartney's grandfather. Known for his distinctive voice and comedic timing, he worked with leading directors and actors across genres. Brambell continued acting into the 1980s, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances before his passing in 1985.

Born Mladen Sekulovich in Chicago in 1912, Karl Malden studied acting at the Goodman School of Drama and the Pasadena Playhouse. He made his Broadway debut in 1947 and soon transitioned to Hollywood, earning an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in On the Waterfront (1954). Malden delivered memorable roles in films like A Streetcar Named Desire (1951) and Baby Doll (1956), and later starred as Lieutenant Mike Stone in the television series The Streets of San Francisco (1972–77). He served as president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences from 1989 to 1992. Malden's commanding presence and versatility made him one of the most respected character actors of his generation. He passed away in 2009.

Born in 1913, James Westerfield carved out a successful career as a character actor across multiple media. He appeared in landmark films like On the Waterfront (1954) and Judgment at Nuremberg (1961), often portraying working-class figures with depth and authenticity. Westerfield also worked extensively on Broadway and in television, showcasing his range in dramas and comedies alike. His warm presence and reliable performances made him a sought-after supporting actor during Hollywood’s Golden Age. He continued acting until his death in 1971, leaving behind a diverse body of work that highlights his talent and dedication to his craft.

Virginia Grey (1917-2004) was born in Los Angeles, California. She made her film debut at age seven in the silent film Sirens of the Sea. Grey appeared in over 100 films, including The Women (1939) and First Love (1939). She transitioned to television in the 1950s, guest-starring on popular series like Perry Mason. Her performances spanned drama, comedy, and Western genres. Grey continued acting into the 1960s and 1970s before retiring in the early 1980s. Her longevity and adaptability made her one of Hollywood's beloved character actresses.

Paul Rogers (1917-2013) was born in Plympton, Devon, England. He made his professional stage debut in the 1930s before serving in World War II. Rogers became a leading Shakespearean actor in London's West End. He won the Tony Award for Best Actor in a Play in 1967 for Harold Pinter's The Homecoming. His film credits include Night of the Demon (1957) and The Dresser (1983). Rogers was a founding member of the Royal Shakespeare Company. He continued acting on stage and screen into the 2000s, leaving a legacy as one of Britain's distinguished classical actors.

James Brown (1920-1992) was born in Manhattan, New York City. He appeared on Broadway in musicals such as Three Wishes for Jamie. Brown transitioned to film and television roles in the 1950s and 1960s. His dual talents in acting and singing brought versatility to his performances. He toured with various theater companies across the United States. Brown continued to work in entertainment until the late 1980s. He is remembered for his stage presence and vocal ability.

Werner Klemperer (1920-2000) was born in Cologne, Germany, to a family of musicians. He emigrated to the United States in 1933 after the rise of the Nazi regime. Klemperer earned acclaim for his portrayal of Colonel Klink on Hogan's Heroes (1965-1971). He won two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. His stage career included performances at the American Shakespeare Festival. He also appeared in films and provided voice acting roles. Klemperer's work in television comedy remains celebrated decades after Hogan's Heroes.