April 14

Vladimir Mayakovsky (1893–1930) was a leading figure in the Russian Futurist movement and a powerful voice of early Soviet culture. He burst onto the literary scene with bold, experimental poems like 'A Cloud in Trousers' (1915) that broke with traditional meter and language. Mayakovsky embraced the Bolshevik Revolution, producing agitprop posters, satirical sketches, and avant-garde stage works to further the new social order. His collaborations with artists such as Kazimir Malevich and Alexander Rodchenko fused text and visual design. Despite official acclaim, he struggled with censorship and financial instability, taking his own life in 1930. His legacy endures in Russian literature and graphic art.

Born in Madrid in 1900, Matilde Muñoz Sampedro began her acting career on the stage in the early 1920s. She transitioned to film in the 1930s, appearing in both dramatic and comedic roles. Throughout the Spanish Civil War and the Franco era, she remained active in Spanish cinema and theater. Muñoz Sampedro featured in dozens of productions and became known for her strong character portrayals. Her work helped shape the development of Spanish performing arts across four decades.

Born in Racine, Wisconsin in 1897, Fredric March began his acting career in stock theater before transitioning to Broadway. He made his film debut in 1927 and won Oscars for his performances in Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1931) and The Best Years of Our Lives (1946). A versatile performer, he appeared in over 70 films and excelled in both dramatic and comedic roles. March also worked in radio and television, notably narrating the documentary series World War II. His contributions to acting earned him a lifetime achievement award from the Screen Actors Guild. March's legacy endures as one of Hollywood's most respected leading men.

Burl Ives was an American singer, actor, and author born in 1909. He rose to prominence in the 1940s with his folk music recordings and radio programs, popularizing traditional songs like 'Blue Tail Fly'. Ives transitioned to acting in the 1950s, winning an Academy Award nomination for his role in 'The Big Country'. His performance as Sam the Snowman in the 1964 television special 'Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer' became a holiday classic. He wrote several books and songs, blending storytelling with music throughout his career. Ives hosted television specials and continued touring until his death, leaving a lasting impact on American folk culture. His contributions span music, film, and literature, reflecting a versatile and enduring artistry.

Ellen Corby was an American character actress born in 1911. She began her career as a freelance writer and scriptwriter before transitioning to acting in the 1930s. Corby appeared in films such as 'The Grapes of Wrath' and 'International Incident', often portraying strong maternal figures. In 1972, she was cast as Grandma Esther Walton in the television series 'The Waltons', a role that earned her three Emmy Awards. Despite suffering a stroke in 1976, she returned to the show and continued acting. Corby's warm screen presence and memorable performances made her a beloved figure in American television. She remains celebrated for her resilience and contributions to the entertainment industry.

Sir Anthony Newley was an English performer born in 1931. He began his career as a child actor and gained fame in the 1950s for his roles in West End musicals. Newley co-wrote the Broadway hit 'Stop the World – I Want to Get Off', earning a Tony Award nomination. As a singer, his recording of 'What Kind of Fool Am I?' became an international success. He also starred in films such as 'The Roaring Twenties' and 'The Strange World of Planet X'. Newley's innovative approach blended acting and songwriting, influencing musical theatre and pop music. Later in life, he was knighted for his contributions to the arts and continued composing until his death.

Bill Wendell was an American television announcer born in 1924. He began his career at NBC in the 1950s, serving as an off-camera announcer for programs like 'The Today Show' and 'NBC Nightly News'. In 1980, he became the announcer for 'Late Night with David Letterman', delivering his signature introduction for over a decade. Wendell's smooth baritone voice and professional demeanor made him a familiar presence to viewers. He also appeared in small on-camera roles and special broadcasts throughout his career. Retiring in 1995, he remained a respected figure in television announcing. Wendell's contributions helped shape the sound of American broadcast television during its formative years.

Jonathan Frid gained fame portraying the tormented vampire Barnabas Collins on the gothic soap opera 'Dark Shadows' (1966-1971). His brooding performance and haunting presence turned him into a cult icon of 1960s television. Born in Hamilton, Ontario, Frid trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London before a career on stage and screen. After 'Dark Shadows,' he returned to theater, earning acclaim for roles in Shakespearean and contemporary plays. Frid later led masterclasses in acting and remained active in the 'Dark Shadows' fan community through conventions. His nuanced portrayal of Barnabas Collins influenced portrayals of vampires in popular culture and sustained his legacy long after the series ended.

Bibi Andersson was born in Stockholm and trained at the Royal Dramatic Theatre's acting school. She became one of Ingmar Bergman's favorite actresses, starring in landmark films such as The Seventh Seal and Persona. Her nuanced performances and emotional depth defined a generation of Scandinavian cinema. Andersson also enjoyed a successful stage and television career, earning Sweden's top acting honors. She continued to mentor young actors and remained a respected figure in international film until her passing in 2019.