1971day.year

Nella Walker

(1886 - 1971)

American actress and vaudevillian

American actress and vaudevillian
American actress and vaudevillian known for her character roles in Hollywood comedies during the 1930s and 1940s.
Born in 1886, Walker began her performance career on the vaudeville stage, mastering comedic timing and stage presence. She transitioned to film in the early 1930s and appeared in over 60 movies, often portraying witty socialites and side characters. Walker worked alongside stars like W.C. Fields and Marion Davies, winning acclaim for her sharp humor. Her enduring screen presence added depth to many classic comedies of the era. She continued to perform on stage and screen until her death in 1971.
Nella Walker
1978day.year

Karl Wallenda

(1905 - 1978)

German-American acrobat and tightrope walker, founded The Flying Wallendas

German-American acrobat and tightrope walker founded The Flying Wallendas
German-American high-wire artist and founder of the famed acrobatic troupe The Flying Wallendas.
Born in 1905 into a family of circus performers, Wallenda emigrated to the United States in 1928. He founded The Flying Wallendas, renowned for performing high-wire acts without safety nets. Wallenda set records for high-altitude crossings, including the Tallulah Gorge and Vienna Hofburg. His fearless performances captivated audiences worldwide and elevated high-wire art to new heights. He remained active in his craft until his death in 1978 following a tragic fall during a stunt in Puerto Rico.
1978 Karl Wallenda The Flying Wallendas
1979day.year

Ben Lyon

(1901 - 1979)

American actor and studio executive

American actor and studio executive
American actor and talent scout who found fame in silent films and later in studio management.
Born in 1901 in Atlanta, Lyon rose to prominence in the silent era with leading roles alongside major stars. He seamlessly transitioned to sound films, showcasing his charm in comedies and dramas alike. During World War II, he moved to London and helped launch the BBC’s film unit, advocating for cultural exchange. After returning to the U.S., Lyon served as a studio executive and talent scout, discovering future icons like Marilyn Monroe. His dual career left a lasting mark on both performance and the business of Hollywood.
1979 Ben Lyon
1986day.year

Olive Deering

(1918 - 1986)

American actress

American actress
American stage and screen actress known for her versatile performances in mid-20th-century film and television.
Olive Deering was born in 1918 in Chicago and began her acting career on the Broadway stage in the early 1940s. She appeared in a range of theatrical productions, earning acclaim for her dramatic presence and emotional depth. Deering transitioned to film and television, taking on roles in both dramas and Westerns throughout the 1950s and 1960s. Notable screen credits include appearances on popular series of the era and supporting roles in Hollywood features. She was admired for her ability to inhabit diverse characters with authenticity. Deering continued to perform on stage well into her later years, demonstrating a lifelong dedication to acting. She passed away in 1986, remembered for her quiet charisma and talent.
1986 Olive Deering
1991day.year

Gloria Holden

(1908 - 1991)

English-American actress

English-American actress
Gloria Holden was an English-American actress best known for her chilling portrayal of Countess Marya Zaleska in the 1936 horror film 'Dracula's Daughter'. Over a career spanning stage and screen, she brought elegance and depth to every role.
Born in 1908, Gloria Holden began her career on stage before transitioning to Hollywood films in the early 1930s. She made her mark with her refined presence and distinctive voice, earning critical praise. Her breakthrough role came as Countess Marya Zaleska in 'Dracula's Daughter' (1936), a performance that left a lasting legacy in horror cinema. Beyond horror, she showcased her versatility in dramas and comedies, appearing in films such as 'Charlie Chan at the Opera' and 'The Invisible Man Returns'. Holden also worked in radio dramas and early television, adapting her talents to new mediums. Later in life, she mentored aspiring actors and contributed to charitable causes in the arts community. She passed away in 1991, remembered as a pioneering figure of classic Hollywood and an icon of genre film.
Gloria Holden
1999day.year

David Strickland

(1969 - 1999)

American actor

American actor
David Strickland was an American television actor best known for his role as Todd Stites on the sitcom 'Suddenly Susan'. His comedic timing won him a devoted fan base.
Born in 1969, David Strickland pursued acting after studying theater arts, appearing in guest roles on popular TV shows such as 'Mad About You' and 'The George Carlin Show.' In 1996, he was cast as Todd Stites in the NBC sitcom 'Suddenly Susan,' where his portrayal of the lovable, clueless assistant earned him critical and audience acclaim. Strickland's charm and humor helped drive the show's success over two seasons. Off-screen, he was known for his friendly personality and dedication to his craft. Tragically, Strickland died by suicide in 1999, prompting conversations about mental health in the entertainment industry. His work continues to be celebrated by fans of 1990s sitcoms.
David Strickland
2005day.year

Gemini Ganesan

(1920 - 2005)

Indian film actor

Indian film actor
Indian film actor famed for his romantic lead roles in Tamil cinema, often nicknamed the "King of Romance".
Born Ramasamy Ganesan in 1920, he became one of Tamil cinema's biggest stars. He earned the title "King of Romance" for his charismatic performances in romantic films. He starred alongside leading actresses such as Savitri and Vyjayanthimala. Over his career spanning more than three decades, he appeared in over 200 films. He was the father of renowned actresses Rekha, Radha, and Kamal Ganesan. His enduring legacy continues to influence Indian cinema audiences and filmmakers.
Gemini Ganesan
2013day.year

Vladimír Čech

(1951 - 2013)

Czech actor and politician

Czech actor and politician
Czech actor and television presenter who also served as a senator.
Vladimír Čech (1951–2013) was a Czech actor and television presenter known for his charismatic on-screen presence. He appeared in numerous theater productions, films, and television shows throughout his career. Čech also hosted popular television and radio programs that reached wide audiences. In addition to his entertainment career, he served as a member of the Czech Senate from 2004 to 2010. His multifaceted career made him a well-known figure in both culture and politics.
2013 Vladimír Čech
2015day.year

Arkady Arkanov

(1933 - 2015)

Ukrainian-Russian actor and playwright

Ukrainian-Russian actor and playwright
Ukrainian-Russian actor and playwright who performed on stage and penned plays blending humor and social observation.
Arkady Arkanov was born in 1933 and built a versatile career in the performing arts. He captivated audiences with his stage and screen performances across Ukraine and Russia. As a playwright, he authored works that combined wit and cultural insight, earning recognition in Soviet and post-Soviet theater circles. His dual talents made him a celebrated figure in Russian-speaking communities. He passed away in 2015 at the age of 82.
2015 Arkady Arkanov
2016day.year

Rita Gam

(1927 - 2016)

American actress

American actress
American actress who appeared in film, stage, and television from the 1950s onward.
Rita Gam was born in 1927 and rose to prominence in the 1950s with roles in Hollywood films, showcasing her versatility and screen presence. She also performed on Broadway, earning praise for her dramatic talent. In later years, Gam appeared in television series and worked behind the scenes, sharing her expertise with emerging actors. Her career spanned decades, reflecting her enduring passion for performance. She died in 2016 at the age of 88.
Rita Gam
2025day.year

Andy Peebles

(1948 - 2025)

English radio DJ, television presenter and cricket commentator

English radio DJ television presenter and cricket commentator
English radio DJ, television presenter, and cricket commentator who entertained audiences across multiple media.
Andy Peebles was born in 1948 and became a familiar voice on English radio, hosting popular music programs for decades. He also appeared on television and lent his insightful commentary to live cricket broadcasts, enhancing the viewing experience for sports fans. His versatility and engaging style made him a beloved figure in broadcasting. He passed away in 2025.
Andy Peebles