May 01

Jacob Mikhailovich Gordin was a Ukrainian-born American playwright, actor, and journalist who transformed Yiddish theatre in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. After emigrating to the United States in 1882, he wrote over seventy plays that introduced realism, complex characters, and social issues to the Yiddish stage. Gordin's works, including his adaptation of 'The Yiddish King Lear', challenged traditional melodrama and elevated the artistic standards of Jewish theatre. He also acted in his own productions and wrote journalistic pieces on cultural and social topics. Gordin's innovative drama laid the foundation for modern Jewish theatre and influenced playwrights for generations.

May Hollinworth founded and directed the Metropolitan Players in Sydney, bringing professional theatre to local audiences in the 1920s and 1930s. She championed contemporary plays and nurtured Australian talent, often staging works by international playwrights alongside homegrown productions. Her innovative approach to set design and actor coaching raised production standards across the country. Hollinworth’s career spanned over four decades, during which she earned acclaim for both classic and modern repertoire. Her dedication to the dramatic arts left a lasting impact on Australian theatre until her death in 1968.

Born in 1907 in Greenville, Virginia, Smith launched her career on radio and quickly earned the title "The First Lady of Radio" thanks to her warm, resonant voice. During World War II, her performances of 'God Bless America' rallied spirit and unity across the nation. She also enjoyed success on Broadway, in films, and on television, demonstrating remarkable versatility. Smith headlined her own radio and TV variety shows, drawing millions of fans with her uplifting presence. Across four decades, she recorded numerous chart-topping singles and albums, leaving a rich musical legacy. Smith passed away in 1986, but her stirring performances continue to resonate in American culture.

Louis Nye was an American actor and comedian celebrated for his witty, urbane style on television and in nightclubs. Born in 1913, he rose to fame as a regular performer on The Steve Allen Show in the 1950s, delivering deadpan humor. His trademark greeting 'Hi-ho, Steverino!' became a national catchphrase, cementing his place in comedy history. Nye appeared in numerous television series, including Get Smart and Hogan's Heroes, showcasing his versatile comedic talent. He later lent his voice to animated projects and continued performing live into his later years. Nye's enduring charm and sharp one-liners made him a beloved figure in American entertainment until his death in 2005.

Glenn Ford was a Canadian-American actor whose career spanned over five decades, making him one of Hollywood's leading men. Born in 1916 in Quebec, he appeared in more than 75 films, earning acclaim for his versatility and everyman appeal. Ford's breakthrough role came in the film noir landmark 'Gilda' (1946) opposite Rita Hayworth. He later starred in dramas such as 'The Blackboard Jungle' (1955), which addressed juvenile delinquency and social change. In addition to acting, Ford produced several films and served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He received a Golden Globe for his contributions to film and television, leaving a lasting legacy when he passed away in 2006.

John Beradino began his career as an infielder in Major League Baseball, playing for teams like the St. Louis Browns and Cleveland Indians. Born in 1917, he was selected as an American League All-Star in 1941 before leaving baseball to pursue acting. He gained fame for his portrayal of Dr. Steve Hardy on the soap opera 'General Hospital', a role he inhabited from 1963 to 1989. Beradino also appeared in films such as 'Requiem for a Heavyweight' and guest-starred on various television series. His transition from sports to acting demonstrated his diverse talents and adaptability. Beradino's legacy endures in both the baseball diamond and television studio until his death in 1996.

Born in Bordeaux, she made her film debut at age 14 in 1931’s 'Le Bal'. Darrieux starred in over 110 films, working with directors like Henri Decoin and Max Ophüls. She became a symbol of French cinema’s golden age, acclaimed for her elegance and versatility. During WWII, she continued acting under German occupation, attracting both praise and controversy. Darrieux also released successful music recordings and appeared on stage in Paris. She received France’s Legion d’Honneur and a lifetime achievement César Award in 1995.

Born in Middletown, Ohio, Paar began his career in stand-up comedy and radio in the 1940s. In 1957, he took over as host of NBC’s 'Tonight!', introducing a more conversational style. His candid interviews and spontaneous humor attracted millions of viewers nationwide. Paar’s clashes with network censors led to his abrupt departure in 1960, cementing his reputation as a maverick. He later hosted talk specials and wrote several books, including candid memoirs of his television years. Paar’s influence paved the way for future late-night hosts like Johnny Carson and David Letterman.

Born in Wexford, Ireland, O'Herlihy honed his craft at the Abbey Theatre. He earned an Academy Award nomination for his debut film role in 'Robinson Crusoe' (1954). O'Herlihy’s career spanned stage, screen, and television, with roles in Hitchcock’s 'Rope' and the series 'Twin Peaks'. He portrayed memorable villains and patriarchs, such as the corrupt Texan in 'RoboCop'. Known for his distinctive voice and gravitas, he worked steadily into his later years. His son, Gavan O'Herlihy, also pursued a career in acting.

Born May 1, 1934, Laura Betti emerged as a leading figure in Italian cinema under the mentorship of Pier Paolo Pasolini, starring in "Teorema" and "Salò". Her distinctive voice and stage presence made her a sought-after performer in theater, film, and music, and she recorded spoken-word albums based on Pasolini’s poetry. She appeared in works by directors such as Bernardo Bertolucci and Federico Fellini, including "La Luna" and "Amarcord". Betti served as a jury member at the Venice Film Festival and authored books on film history and theory. She passed away in 2004, leaving a legacy of fearless artistry and cultural scholarship.

Born May 1, 1937, Una Stubbs began her career as a dancer before gaining fame as Rita in the groundbreaking sitcom "Till Death Us Do Part". She charmed audiences as Aunt Sally in "Worzel Gummidge" and later reached global viewers portraying Mrs. Hudson in the BBC series "Sherlock". Over six decades, she appeared in films, radio, and West End productions, showcasing her versatility in comedy and drama. Stubbs’s warmth and comedic timing made her a beloved fixture in British entertainment. She passed away in 2021, remembered for her iconic roles and enduring career.

Joanna Lumley rose to fame in the 1970s and 1980s with her versatile performances on stage and screen. She became a household name as the sharp-witted and glamorous Patsy Stone in “Absolutely Fabulous”. Her credits span acting, voice-over work, and narration for documentaries. Lumley is also an accomplished author, penning memoirs and travelogues that showcase her wit and wanderlust. A passionate activist, she has campaigned for animal rights, Gurkha veterans' justice, and environmental conservation. Her elegance, humor, and advocacy continue to inspire audiences worldwide.