English actor and manager
English actor and manager
William Macready was a prominent 19th-century English actor and theatre manager known for his Shakespearean performances and staging innovations.
Born in London in 1793, William Charles Macready was trained by his actor father and made his stage debut as a teenager.
He rose to fame in the 1820s for his commanding portrayals of Macbeth, Othello, and Richard III, earning critical acclaim.
As manager of Covent Garden and Drury Lane, he introduced reforms in staging, rehearsal practices, and costume authenticity.
He championed a more naturalistic acting style and elevated the professional standards of Victorian theatre.
After retiring in 1851, he penned memoirs that provide a vivid account of the theatrical world of his era.
He died on April 27, 1873, leaving a legacy as one of England's greatest actors and innovators.
1873
William Macready
Irish rebel and actor
Irish rebel and actor
Renowned Irish actor and former freedom fighter best known for his roles in classic Hollywood films such as 'The Quiet Man'.
Arthur Shields was born in Dublin in 1896 and joined the Irish Volunteers during the struggle for independence. He took part in the 1916 Easter Rising before turning to acting. Shields moved to Hollywood where he became a favorite of director John Ford, appearing in films like 'How Green Was My Valley' and 'The Quiet Man'. He performed alongside his cousin Barry Fitzgerald, earning acclaim for his warm character portrayals. Shields had a career spanning stage, radio, and screen, influencing perceptions of Irish culture abroad. He passed away on April 27, 1970, leaving behind a legacy as both activist and actor.
1970
Arthur Shields
American actor and screenwriter
American actor and screenwriter
Character actor and screenwriter known for his versatile roles in film and television and sharp wit on the page.
Stanley Adams was born in 1915 and began his entertainment career writing scripts for radio and early television. He transitioned to acting, appearing in films such as 'Rebel Without a Cause' and television series like 'Perry Mason.' As a screenwriter, Adams penned episodes for popular shows including 'The Beverly Hillbillies' and 'Bonanza.' His sharp comedic timing and adaptability made him a sought-after character performer. Over a career spanning four decades, he contributed to over 50 productions in Hollywood’s studio era. Adams died on April 27, 1977, remembered for his dual talents in acting and writing.
1977
Stanley Adams
Canadian-American actress
Canadian-American actress
Canadian-American actress who appeared in Hollywood films during the 1930s and 1940s.
Katherine DeMille was a Canadian-American actress active in classic Hollywood cinema in the 1930s and 1940s. Born in 1911, she was adopted by legendary director Cecil B. DeMille and began her screen career under his tutelage. She appeared in films spanning adventure, drama, and historical genres, earning praise for her versatility and screen presence. DeMille worked alongside leading actors of the era and contributed to the golden age of studio filmmaking. After marrying actor Anthony Quinn, she balanced her family life with occasional film roles. She retired from acting in the late 1940s but remained connected to the film industry. DeMille passed away in 1995, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances.
1995
Katherine DeMille
American dancer and choreographer
American dancer and choreographer
Legendary American dancer and choreographer, celebrated for popularizing the Lindy Hop swing dance.
Born in Jacksonville, Florida, Frankie Manning rose to fame in Harlem's Savoy Ballroom in the 1930s. As a principal dancer with Whitey's Lindy Hoppers, he revolutionized aerial moves and partnered with top jazz musicians. His innovative choreography helped define swing dance's golden era. After a hiatus, he revived the Lindy Hop in the 1980s, touring internationally and teaching workshops. Manning received a National Heritage Fellowship in 2000 and continued performing into his nineties. His autobiography and countless protégés ensure his enduring legacy in dance history.
2009
Frankie Manning
South Korean model and actress
South Korean model and actress
South Korean model and actress who appeared in hit dramas and graced numerous fashion campaigns.
Born in 1983, Woo Seung-yeon began her career as a model, appearing in high-profile magazines and brand campaigns. She made her acting debut in South Korean television dramas, earning praise for her versatility and screen presence. Her work spanned runway shows, editorials, and popular series, making her a rising star in Korea's entertainment industry. Known for her elegance and talent, she inspired many young models and actors. Her tragic death in 2009 at the age of 26 cut short a promising career. She is remembered for her contributions to fashion and television during the early 2000s.
Woo Seung-yeon
Indian Actor, Film Director & Producer
Indian Actor
Film Director & Producer
Indian actor, film director, and producer known for his charismatic style and blockbuster films.
Born into a film family in Bangalore, Feroz Khan rose to stardom in the 1960s with his captivating screen presence. Dubbed the 'Clint Eastwood of India' for his rugged style, he starred in and directed numerous hit films. His directorial ventures, including the blockbuster 'Qurbani,' set new standards for production and music in Bollywood. Known for his dashing persona and on-screen charisma, he became a trendsetter in Indian cinema. Over his five-decade career, he earned awards and inspired future generations of actors and filmmakers. His contributions continue to influence Bollywood's style and storytelling.
Feroz Khan (actor)
American actress and singer
American actress and singer
American actress and singer best known for her Tony-winning performance on Broadway.
Born in Akron, Ohio, Marian Mercer began her career on Broadway, earning a Tony Award for her performance in 'Promises, Promises'. She transitioned to television, starring as Barbara in the sitcom 'It's a Living', where her comedic talents shone. Mercer also appeared in soap operas and made-for-TV movies, showcasing her versatility as both an actress and singer. She toured nationally in musical productions, captivating audiences with her strong vocals and charm. Known for her warm personality and impeccable timing, she remained active in theater and TV into her later years. Her contributions to stage and screen have left an enduring mark on American entertainment.
2011
Marian Mercer
Indian actor, producer and politician
Indian actor
producer and politician
Iconic Indian film star and parliamentarian who bridged Bollywood and politics.
Vinod Khanna, born in 1946, rose to fame in the 1970s as a charismatic lead actor in films such as Mera Gaon Mera Desh and Amar Akbar Anthony. After a successful film career, he joined politics with the Bharatiya Janata Party and served three terms as a Member of Parliament. Khanna balanced his roles as a movie producer, actor, and public servant with grace and dedication. His philanthropic efforts and personal integrity earned him widespread respect. His death in 2017 prompted tributes across industries, highlighting his multifaceted legacy.
2017
Vinod Khanna
American politician and actor
American politician and actor
American politician turned television host, best known for 'The Jerry Springer Show'.
Born in 1944, Jerry Springer began his career in politics, serving as an aide to U.S. Senator Henry Jackson and then as Mayor of Cincinnati from 1977 to 1978. After an unsuccessful congressional bid, he transitioned to broadcasting, hosting the controversial tabloid talk show 'The Jerry Springer Show' from 1991 to 2018. The program gained notoriety for its outrageous live audience participation and sensational topics. Springer also authored several memoirs and appeared as an actor in films and television. He remained a cultural icon, influencing the landscape of daytime television.
2023
Jerry Springer
Filipino-American drag performer, singer and actress
Filipino-American drag performer
singer and actress
Filipino-American drag performer, singer, and actress known for her appearances on RuPaul's Drag Race.
Born in 1980 in Quezon City, Philippines, Jiggly Caliente moved to the United States as a child and discovered her passion for performance. She gained fame competing on season 4 of 'RuPaul's Drag Race' in 2012, becoming a fan favorite for her charisma and candor. Beyond drag, she pursued a music career, releasing dance-pop singles and music videos. Jiggly has also acted in stage productions and podcasts, advocating for LGBTQ+ visibility and immigrant rights. Her bold performances and authentic persona have made her a beloved figure in drag culture.
2025
Jiggly Caliente