April 20

James Harcourt was a prolific English character actor whose career spanned both theatre and early cinema in the first half of the 20th century. Renowned for his ability to inhabit a wide range of roles, he appeared in numerous stage productions across London's West End and featured in silent and sound films. Harcourt's nuanced performances added depth to supporting characters, making him a sought-after talent among directors of his era. His work helped define the art of character acting in British entertainment. Though less celebrated today, his craft remains a testament to the era's performance traditions.

Harold Lloyd was born on April 20, 1893, in Burchard, Nebraska. He rose to fame in the silent film era with his trademark horn-rimmed glasses and optimistic screen persona. Lloyd starred in classic comedies such as "Safety Last!" and "Girl Shy," performing many of his own stunts. He co-founded a production company and produced dozens of shorts and features throughout the 1920s. Lloyd successfully transitioned to sound films but retired from acting in 1938. He remained a beloved figure in film history until his death in 1971.

Bruce Cabot began his acting career on Broadway before making his mark in Hollywood with his breakout performance in King Kong (1933). He portrayed the heroic screenwriter Jack Driscoll and became a lifelong friend of director Merian C. Cooper. Over the next four decades, Cabot appeared in more than 100 films, including Bulldog Drummond and Tarzan and His Mate. He also took on guest roles in popular television series such as Alfred Hitchcock Presents. Known for his rugged looks and commanding presence, Cabot maintained a steady career through Hollywood's Golden Age. His enduring legacy lies in his memorable contribution to one of cinema's most iconic monsters.

Mimis Fotopoulos became a beloved figure in Greek cinema and theater with his versatile performances spanning drama and comedy. He appeared in over 60 films, often portraying charming everyman characters that resonated with audiences. Parallel to his acting career, Fotopoulos cultivated a passion for poetry, publishing multiple volumes that explored themes of love, nature, and Greek identity. He received awards for both his stage performances and literary work, cementing his status as a multifaceted artist. His warm screen presence and lyrical voice made him a cultural icon during Greece’s postwar golden age of cinema. Fotopoulos’s legacy endures through his films and poetry, which continue to inspire new generations of artists.

Betty Lou Gerson began her career in radio drama, where she honed her vocal talents in suspenseful and comedic roles. Transitioning to film and television, she lent her voice to Walt Disney classics, most notably as the icy Cruella de Vil in One Hundred and One Dalmatians (1961). Gerson also narrated Disney’s Cinderella (1950), enchanting audiences with her warm and authoritative tone. Beyond animation, she appeared in character roles on television series throughout the 1950s and 1960s. Her distinctive voice work influenced generations of voice actors and remains celebrated by Disney enthusiasts. Gerson’s legacy lives on through her iconic performances that continue to charm new audiences.

Born in 1916, Nasiba Zeynalova trained at the Azerbaijan State Theatre before embarking on a prolific acting career. She performed in numerous stage productions and films, becoming known for her versatility and emotional depth. Over five decades, she appeared in classics of Azerbaijani cinema, leaving a lasting legacy. She influenced generations of performers and was honored with state awards for her artistic achievements. Zeynalova continued to act into her later years, inspiring audiences until her death in 2004.

Katarína Kolníková was born in 1921 in Slovakia and trained at the State Conservatory of Music and Drama. She gained acclaim for her versatility, performing in both dramatic and comedic roles on stage. Kolníková appeared in classic Slovak films and television series, endearing herself to audiences with her warmth and charisma. Throughout her career, she was honored with national awards for her contributions to performing arts. She also mentored younger actors and remained active in theater into her later years. Kolníková's legacy endures in Slovak cultural history following her death in 2006.

Nina Foch was a Dutch-American actress whose career spanned over seven decades. She made her Broadway debut at age 13 and signed with 20th Century Fox in 1943. Foch received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role in "Executive Suite" (1954). She appeared in notable films such as "An American in Paris" (1951), "Spartacus" (1960), and "Peyton Place" (1957). Beyond acting, she was a revered acting teacher at the University of Southern California, mentoring generations of performers.

Leslie Phillips was a British actor known for his distinctive laid-back, upper-class charm. He began his career in radio comedy before becoming a beloved Carry On film regular. Phillips starred in classics such as "The Longest Day" (1962) and provided the voice of the Sorting Hat in the "Harry Potter" film series. In addition to acting, he produced stage productions and wrote an autobiography recounting his six-decade career. His trademark catchphrases and voice made him one of Britain's most recognizable character actors.

Elena Verdugo began her acting career as a child, appearing in the "Our Gang" comedies and various studio films in the 1930s. She transitioned successfully to television, earning Emmy nominations for her performance in "Marcus Welby, M.D." from 1967 to 1976. Verdugo appeared in movies such as "Never Give a Sucker an Even Break" (1941) and guest-starred on popular shows like "Perry Mason." Her warm presence and bilingual talent allowed her to break barriers for Latina actresses in Hollywood. Verdugo continued acting into her later years, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances.

Myriam Bru was born on April 20, 1932, in Toulouse, France. She began her acting career in the early 1950s, appearing in French and Italian films. Bru was acclaimed for her performances in dramas and thrillers, working with notable directors of the era. Her on-screen presence combined grace with a hint of mystery, earning her a loyal following. She later transitioned to supporting roles and occasional television appearances. Myriam Bru remains a memorable figure in post-war European cinema.

Lisa Davis was born on April 20, 1936, in London, England. She moved to the United States with her family as a child and began acting in her teens. Davis appeared in films such as 'The Glass Slipper' and 'The Man in the Net' in the 1950s. She provided the speaking voice for Anita Radcliffe in Disney's animated classic 'One Hundred and One Dalmatians'. Her vibrant screen presence and distinctive voice made her a popular figure in family entertainment. Davis continued to work in film and television throughout the 1960s.