March 28

Kyrle Bellew was born in England in 1850 and became one of the most celebrated theatre actors of his era. He gained acclaim for roles such as Hamlet, Romeo, and other leading parts in both classical and contemporary plays. Bellew toured extensively across Britain and the United States, drawing audiences with his charismatic presence and powerful voice. He also managed theatre companies and contributed to the development of stagecraft. Later in life, he published memoirs detailing his theatrical experiences. Bellew’s legacy lives on in the history of 19th-century theatre. He died in 1911.

Born on the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota, Beulah Dark Cloud was among the first Native American actresses in Hollywood. She appeared in silent films such as 'The Daughter of Dawn' (1920), which featured an all-Native American cast. Her roles brought indigenous stories and traditions to the silver screen at a time when Native American cultures were often marginalized. Beyond her film work, she advocated for respectful representation of Native communities in the arts. She performed on stage and in early cinema during the 1910s and 1920s, bridging traditional culture and modern storytelling. Though details of her later life remain scarce, her pioneering presence opened doors for future Native American performers. Dark Cloud's legacy endures as a trailblazer in American film history.

Flora Robson was born in 1902 in London, England. She trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and made her stage debut in the 1920s. Robson became known for portraying strong, authoritative characters on stage and screen. Her notable film roles include 'Fire Over England', 'The Sea Hawk', and 'Wuthering Heights'. She was appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire for her services to drama. Robson's elegant artistry and versatility left a lasting mark on British theatre and cinema until her death in 1984.

Details about Robert Allen's early life are limited, but he emerged as a character actor in mid-20th-century Hollywood. He appeared in both film and television productions, contributing supporting performances that added depth to a variety of genres. Though not always in the spotlight, Allen earned respect from directors and peers for his professionalism. His career spanned the transition from studio-driven cinema to the rise of television entertainment. After retiring from acting, he remained a figure remembered by enthusiasts of classic American film and TV.

Jimmie Dodd gained fame in the 1950s as the amiable host of Disney's Mickey Mouse Club, entertaining children with songs and stories. He wrote several of the show's memorable theme songs, including "Miracles Happen (When You Believe)". Before his television success, Dodd performed in nightclubs and Broadway productions, showcasing his musical versatility. His warm persona and engaging performances made him a beloved figure for young audiences. Dodd received a posthumous star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in recognition of his contributions to entertainment. He died in 1964 but remains an iconic part of Disney history.

Dirk Bogarde was an English actor who rose to fame with early roles in wartime films before becoming an icon of British art-house cinema. He delivered acclaimed performances in films such as 'The Servant', 'Accident', and 'Death in Venice'. Beyond acting, Bogarde wrote several novels, memoirs, and essays, showcasing his talent as an author. He became one of the highest-paid actors in Britain during the 1960s. Known for his refined screen presence and introspective characters, he influenced generations of performers. He received numerous awards and was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire. Bogarde's legacy endures both on screen and in literature. He passed away in 1999.

Freddie Bartholomew was a British-American child actor who captivated audiences in the 1930s with his boyish charm and dramatic talent. After emigrating to the United States, he earned acclaim in films such as 'Captains Courageous' and 'David Copperfield,' winning a special Academy Juvenile Award. Bartholomew starred opposite Spencer Tracy and Lionel Barrymore, demonstrating a maturity beyond his years. He became one of Hollywood's most popular child stars before retiring from acting in his late teens. Later in life, he worked behind the camera in production and served as a sound engineer for Columbia Pictures. Bartholomew's early performances remain beloved by classic film enthusiasts. He documented his experiences in interviews and retrospectives, preserving his legacy. He passed away in 1992, remembered as one of cinema's first child icons.

Innokenty Smoktunovsky was a distinguished Soviet stage and film actor acclaimed for his profound interpretations of complex characters. He gained international recognition as Prince Myshkin in Grigori Kozintsev's film adaptation of Dostoyevsky's 'The Idiot.' His portrayal of Hamlet in Kozintsev's 'Hamlet' further solidified his reputation as a Shakespearean talent. Smoktunovsky held the title of People's Artist of the USSR and received numerous state awards for his artistic achievements. He performed with the Moscow Art Theatre and continued to deliver powerful performances in film and television. Known for his deep voice, emotional depth, and striking presence, he influenced generations of actors. His career spanned over four decades, including roles in 'Uncle Vanya' and 'Tchaikovsky.' Smoktunovsky's legacy endures as one of Russia's greatest thespians until his death in 1994.

Dorothy DeBorba was an American child actress who charmed audiences in the popular 'Our Gang' (Little Rascals) comedies of the 1930s. With her distinctive bangs and expressive face, she appeared in over a dozen short films alongside Mickey Daniels and other young performers. DeBorba's comedic timing and endearing presence made her one of the series' memorable female leads. After leaving acting, she pursued a private life away from Hollywood's spotlight. She later worked behind the scenes in entertainment and engaged in community theater projects. DeBorba shared her memories of the era in interviews and reunions with former cast members. Her contributions to early cinema remain celebrated by classic film aficionados. She passed away in 2010, leaving behind a legacy of childhood charm on screen.

Born in Lancashire in 1940, Tony Barber began his television career in the United Kingdom before moving to Australia. He became a household name as the charismatic host of Sale of the Century from 1980 to 1991, setting records for audience ratings. His engaging style and quick wit made him one of Australia's most beloved TV personalities. Over five decades, he presented various programs and remained active in broadcasting and charity events.

Conchata S. Ferrell was an American actress whose deep voice and commanding presence made her a standout character performer. She rose to fame portraying Berta on the long-running sitcom Two and a Half Men, earning two Primetime Emmy nominations. With a career spanning stage, film, and television, she appeared in films like Erin Brockovich and Edward Scissorhands and on Broadway productions including The Tale of the Allergist’s Wife. Known for her sharp wit and memorable one-liners, Ferrell became a beloved figure in American comedy. She continued to work steadily until her passing in 2020, leaving behind a legacy of unforgettable character roles.

Ken Howard was an American stage and screen actor celebrated for his versatility and dedication to his craft. He gained acclaim playing football coach Ken Reeves in the ABC series The White Shadow, earning two Emmy Awards during his career. Howard’s film roles included The Boys from Brazil and more than a dozen Broadway and regional theater appearances. Beyond acting, he was a passionate union leader, serving as president of the Screen Actors Guild and later SAG-AFTRA. His advocacy for performers’ rights left a lasting impact on the industry before his passing in 2016.