April 16

Mihály Fekete was a Hungarian actor, screenwriter, and film director who contributed to the silent film era in Hungary. Born in 1884, he began his career on the stage before transitioning to cinema, where he appeared in and directed several early motion pictures. His screenwriting work explored dramatic themes and helped shape narrative techniques in Hungarian films. As a director, Fekete was noted for his collaborations with prominent actors of the time and his innovative approach to storytelling. He balanced multiple roles both in front of and behind the camera, reflecting his versatility in the performing arts. Fekete’s contributions laid groundwork for future developments in Hungarian and European cinema before his death in 1960.

Sydney Chaplin was an English actor and comedian, the half-brother of film legend Charlie Chaplin. Born in 1885, he performed in music halls and vaudeville before transitioning to the silent film industry in the United States. He appeared in several of his brother’s early productions, showcasing his talent for physical comedy and timing. Chaplin also managed his brother’s business affairs, helping to negotiate film contracts and secure Charlie’s career. Beyond acting, he wrote and produced stage shows that toured internationally, building his own reputation in entertainment. In later years, he returned to England and continued performing until his death in 1965.

Born in 1893, Fay Bainter began her career on Broadway before transitioning to Hollywood films. She won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Jezebel (1938) and later earned a Best Actress nomination for White Banners (1938), making Oscar history. Over five decades, she appeared in more than 50 films and numerous stage productions, displaying remarkable versatility in both comedic and dramatic roles. Bainter's distinguished presence and talent left a lasting impact on American theater and cinema. She passed away in 1968.

Scott Brady was an American film and television actor best known for his roles in Westerns and crime dramas. Born as Gerard Kenneth Tierney, he began his career in the late 1940s and appeared in film noir classics such as He Walked by Night. He starred in the television series Shotgun Slade and made guest appearances on popular shows throughout the 1950s and 1960s. Brady brought a rugged presence to his characters and earned a reputation for versatility across genres. He worked consistently on both the big and small screens over a four decade career. His dedication to his craft and memorable performances have made him a lasting figure in genre filmmaking.

Neville Brand began his acting career after serving bravely in World War II as part of the 29th Infantry Division. He transitioned to film and television, often portraying hardened criminals and military figures with gritty authenticity. Brand earned critical acclaim for his performance in Riot in Cell Block 11 and was nominated for a Golden Globe award. Over a career spanning more than fifty years, he appeared in over 200 productions, including The Big Heat and Tammy and the Bachelor. His commanding screen presence and dedication to his roles made him a memorable figure in Hollywood. Brand's blend of real-life wartime experience and acting talent set him apart in both genres.

Born in Los Angeles in 1919, Russell rose to fame with his hit recording of 'Amor' in 1944 and became one of the first crossover artists by performing in both English and Spanish. He recorded numerous romantic ballads that sold millions of records and cultivated a devoted audience in North America and Latin America. Russell appeared in several Hollywood films and television shows, showcasing his suave style and rich baritone. Later in life, he moved to Mexico, where he continued to perform and record into the 1970s. He died in Guadalajara in 1992, remembered as a pioneering figure in Latin-infused popular music.

Born in Amsterdam, New York, in 1917, Bremer began her career on Broadway before signing with MGM in 1944. She co-starred with Judy Garland in 'Meet Me in St. Louis' and danced alongside Gene Kelly in 'Ziegfeld Follies,' earning praise for her grace and screen presence. After marrying in 1948, she retired from acting and lived in Europe while occasionally returning to manage and mentor young talent. Bremer's work during Hollywood's Golden Age left a lasting impression on musical film history. She passed away in 1996, remembered for her elegant artistry and vibrant on-screen charm.

Born in Paris in 1938 to Polish-Jewish refugee parents, Topor first gained attention as a cartoonist and co-founder of the satirical magazine 'Hara-Kiri.' His grotesque and surreal artwork influenced European counterculture, while his novel 'The Tenant' was adapted into a film by Roman Polanski. Topor also wrote and directed experimental theater pieces, contributed animation designs for 'Fantastic Planet' (1973), and acted in films and television. His interdisciplinary approach and dark humor left a significant mark on multiple art forms. He died in 1997, remembered as a pioneering figure in surreal and satirical art.

Born in 1918, Robert Osterloh pursued a career in acting during Hollywood's Golden Age. Known for his versatility, he took on a variety of supporting roles in both films and television series. His career spanned from the 1940s through the 1970s, allowing him to work alongside prominent stars of the era. Osterloh's reliable performances made him a familiar face to audiences seeking classic entertainment. Though he rarely headlined major productions, his contributions added depth to countless works. After more than three decades in the industry, he retired from acting in the late 1970s. He passed away in 2001 at the age of 83, remembered for his steady presence on screen.

Born in 1946, Robert Urich began his career with guest appearances on television before landing leading roles. He starred as private investigator Spenser in 'Spenser: For Hire' and as detective Dan Tanna in 'Vega$'. Urich's charm and screen presence made him a household name during the 1970s and 1980s. He appeared in the feature film 'Midway', demonstrating his versatility beyond television. An advocate for cancer research, he continued acting while battling a rare form of cancer later in life. Urich received a Golden Globe nomination for his work and remained active in charity efforts. He died in 2002 at the age of 55, remembered for his versatility and dedication.

Born in 1930, Graham Jarvis began his acting career on stage before transitioning to film and television. He became a reliable character actor, appearing in a variety of genres from drama to comedy. Jarvis worked steadily across five decades, contributing to both Canadian and American productions. On television, he guest-starred on popular series, showcasing his range in single-episode roles. In film, he often played supporting characters that added depth to the story. Despite rarely taking leading roles, his performances were consistently praised by critics. He passed away in 2003 at the age of 72, leaving behind a diverse body of work.

Born in 1911, Kay Walsh began her career as a dancer in London's West End before transitioning to acting. She showcased her versatility in both musical films and dramatic roles throughout the 1930s and 1940s. Walsh worked with prominent directors and starred alongside leading actors of her era. Her singing talent added a captivating dimension to her performances in musical productions. In later years, she continued to act on stage and made occasional screen appearances. Known for her graceful presence and expressive style, she inspired many performers. She passed away in 2005 at the age of 93, remembered as a pioneering talent of early British cinema and theater.