April 28

Thomas Betterton (1630–1710) was widely regarded as the greatest actor of the Restoration stage. Rising to prominence under the patronage of King Charles II, he excelled in both tragic and comic roles, including Hamlet and Othello. Betterton co-founded the Duke's Company and later managed the United Company, shaping London's theatrical scene. He introduced innovative staging techniques and mentored a generation of actors. His managerial skill ensured the survival of professional theatre during political upheavals. He continued performing into his seventies, leaving a lasting legacy on English drama.

Ed Begley was an American film and television actor whose career spanned over four decades. He earned the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in 1962. Begley appeared in a variety of genres, showcasing his talent in dramas, comedies, and thrillers. His memorable performances included collaborations with renowned directors such as Alfred Hitchcock. On television, he delivered compelling turns in both series and made-for-TV movies. Begley's deep voice and commanding presence made him a standout character actor. His legacy endures through his influential performances and his son, actor Ed Begley Jr.

Born Jacob Kranze in New York City in 1900, Ricardo Cortez began his stage career before being discovered by a Hollywood talent scout. He rose to prominence in the silent era, often playing handsome leading men and villains. With the advent of sound, he delivered one of his most memorable performances as private detective Sam Spade in the 1931 adaptation of the Maltese Falcon. Over a career spanning more than three decades, he appeared in over 80 films, working with directors such as Fritz Lang and Josef von Sternberg. Known for his suave persona and screen presence, Cortez left a mark on early American cinema before retiring in the mid-1950s.

Born in Salo, Finland, in 1911, Esa Pakarinen initially gained fame as a singer and skilled accordionist in the 1930s. He transitioned to film in the late 1940s, becoming beloved for his portrayal of the bumbling character Pekka Puupää in a popular Finnish comedy series. Pakarinen's blend of slapstick humor, charismatic stage presence, and musical talent made him a household name. He recorded numerous folk and schlager songs, often incorporating his distinctive accent and wit. Over a career spanning four decades, he appeared in over 20 films and toured extensively across Finland. His contributions to Finnish entertainment endure through classic recordings and films.

Born in 1922, Rory Calhoun rose from humble beginnings to become a Hollywood leading man. He starred in over fifty films, including the iconic Western River of No Return alongside Marilyn Monroe. Calhoun portrayed rugged heroes in numerous Westerns throughout the 1950s and became a staple of the genre. On television, he headlined The Texan, bringing frontier adventures into living rooms nationwide. As a producer and occasional screenwriter, he helped shape the projects he worked on and guided creative direction. Calhoun's charismatic presence and tough-guy charm cemented his status as a legend of Western entertainment.

Dabbs Greer began acting in the 1940s, appearing in numerous stage productions. He gained recognition on television for his recurring role as Rev. Robert Alden on 'The Waltons.' Greer appeared in iconic films like 'Kings Row,' 'All the President's Men,' and 'Death Sentence.' He was a frequent guest star in popular TV series including 'Gunsmoke,' 'M*A*S*H,' and 'The X-Files.' Known for his gentle demeanor, he brought depth to supporting roles and became a reliable character actor. Greer passed away in 2007 at the age of 89, leaving behind a rich body of work.

Ekaterina Maximova was a principal dancer with the Bolshoi Theatre and one of the most acclaimed ballerinas of her generation. Born in Moscow in 1939, she trained at the Bolshoi Ballet Academy under renowned instructors. She formed a legendary partnership with dancer Vladimir Vasiliev, captivating audiences worldwide. Maximova was known for roles in classics such as Giselle, Swan Lake, and Don Quixote. She was awarded the title People’s Artist of the USSR in 1971 and received numerous international honors. After retiring from performance, she continued to teach and coach young dancers and appeared in several Soviet films.

Patricia Medina was a prominent English actress whose career spanned from the 1930s to the 1960s. Born in Liverpool in 1919, she rose to fame with roles in films such as The Black Arrow and The Strange Door. Her elegant screen presence and dramatic range led to collaborations with leading stars of the era. After marrying actor Joseph Cotten in 1960, she relocated to Hollywood while continuing to act in television and film. Medina’s performances were noted for their poise and intensity, earning her a devoted fan base. She retired in the late 1960s but made occasional television appearances, leaving behind a rich cinematic legacy.

Antônio Abujamra (1932–2015) was a Brazilian actor and director celebrated for his theatrical works. He founded influential theater companies and was known for his dynamic stage presence. Abujamra directed films and television productions, earning critical acclaim in Brazil. He became a cultural icon by blending humor with philosophical reflections in his performances. His contributions to Brazilian arts were honored with multiple national awards.

John Singleton was an American film director, screenwriter, and producer whose debut feature 'Boyz n the Hood' earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Director at age 24, making him the youngest and first African American nominee. His films, including 'Poetic Justice' and 'Higher Learning', explored themes of urban life, race, and social justice with raw authenticity. Singleton broke new ground in Hollywood, paving the way for future generations of filmmakers of color. He also directed television series and served as a mentor, supporting young talent and diverse storytelling. Over his career, he received numerous accolades and remained an influential voice in cinema until his untimely death.

Juan Joya Borja, known professionally as El Risitas, was a Spanish comedian and actor celebrated for his distinctive, infectious laugh. He gained international fame when a 2001 television interview clip featuring his laughter became a widely shared internet meme. El Risitas appeared in films such as 'Torrente 3' and was a regular on Spanish television comedy shows. His humor and genuine charisma endeared him to audiences across Spain and around the world. Even after his passing, his legendary laugh continues to bring joy and laughter to new generations.

Brian McCardie was a Scottish actor and writer whose career spanned film, television, and theatre. He appeared in numerous feature films and British television dramas, showcasing his versatility across genres. On stage, he performed in leading roles at major UK theatres, earning acclaim for his presence and depth. As a writer, he crafted original works and adaptations for the stage, demonstrating his creative range. His dedication to both acting and writing established him as a multifaceted talent in the arts community.