April 20

Born Annie May Busch in Melbourne in 1891, Mae Busch began her career on stage in Australia before moving to England and eventually Hollywood. She appeared in numerous silent films for Universal and Fox, demonstrating versatility across drama and comedy. Busch gained fame in the 1920s and ’30s for her work alongside Laurel and Hardy, playing strong-willed characters in classics such as Busy Bodies and Helpmates. Her expressive performances made her a memorable presence in early cinema. After her film career waned, she returned to Europe and toured in vaudeville. She died in France in 1946, leaving behind a legacy of comedic artistry.

Alfred Hawthorne Hill, known professionally as Benny Hill, was born in 1924 in Southampton, England, and began his entertainment career in radio during the late 1940s. He created 'The Benny Hill Show', which combined slapstick, satire, and country-and-western music, achieving global popularity from the 1950s through the early 1990s. Hill's comedic style featured fast-paced sketches, chase sequences, and double entendres, making him one of Britain's most beloved entertainers. Despite criticism over the show's risqué humor, his influence on televised comedy and sketch shows is undeniable. Hill died in 1992, leaving a legacy of humor that continues to entertain audiences worldwide.

Born Mario Moreno in 1911 in Mexico City, Cantinflas began his career in small theatrical troupes and quickly gained fame for his improvisational talent and satirical humor. He created the character Cantinflas, a lovable underdog speaking in a unique rapid-fire manner that resonated with the working class. Over his career, he starred in over 50 films and became a cultural ambassador for Mexico, with hits like "Ahí está el detalle" and "Around the World in 80 Days." His performance in the latter won him a Golden Globe and an Academy Award nomination. Cantinflas also produced and wrote many of his films, cementing his legacy as a pioneer in Mexican cinema. By the time of his death in 1993, he was celebrated as the 'Charlie Chaplin of Mexico', leaving an indelible mark on world film and comedy.

Victoria Wood began her career in the 1970s with stand-up comedy, quickly gaining acclaim for her observational humour. She wrote and starred in 'Victoria Wood As Seen On TV', winning multiple BAFTA awards for her sketches and songs. Her sitcom 'Dinnerladies' (1998–2000) has remained a classic for its relatable characters and poignant comedy. Wood also penned stage musicals, radio plays, and tribute shows, showcasing her versatility as a writer and performer. She was appointed CBE in 2008 and received a BAFTA Fellowship in 2005. Wood’s work continues to inspire comedians and audiences with its warmth, empathy, and laughter.

Born in 1944 in Italy, Cantafora made his screen debut in the late 1960s during the heyday of spaghetti westerns. He appeared in numerous genre films, working with directors such as Sergio Corbucci and Enzo G. Castellari. His versatility led to roles in crime dramas, comedies, and television series throughout Europe. Cantafora’s on-screen presence and adaptability made him a recognizable figure in Italian cinema. He also ventured into stage performances and late-career character roles. His work spans over five decades of film and television productions.