May 07

Warner Baxter (1889–1951) rose to stardom during Hollywood’s transition from silent films to talkies. He delivered a breakthrough performance as the Cisco Kid in the 1928 film In Old Arizona, earning him the Academy Award for Best Actor in 1929. Known for his suave demeanor and versatility, Baxter appeared in over 100 films across genres including westerns, dramas, and comedies. He starred opposite leading actresses of his time such as Greta Garbo and Marlene Dietrich. Despite his on-screen success, he battled health issues later in life that curtailed his career. Baxter’s contributions helped define early sound cinema and his performances remain celebrated by classic film enthusiasts.

Colin Blakely (1930–1987) trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and became a prominent member of the Royal Shakespeare Company. He earned acclaim for roles in productions such as A Man for All Seasons and Equus, demonstrating exceptional range and intensity. Blakely transitioned seamlessly to film, appearing in The Private Life of Sherlock Holmes, Scrooge, and The Long Good Friday. His distinctive presence and nuanced character portrayals made him a favorite among directors and audiences alike. On television, he appeared in series like Space: 1999 and adaptations of literary classics. Blakely’s enduring performances continue to be celebrated by theatre enthusiasts around the world.

Douglas Fairbanks Jr. was born in 1909 in New York City, son of silent film star Douglas Fairbanks. He gained fame in 1930s Hollywood with roles in films like 'The Prisoner of Zenda'. Fairbanks served with distinction in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He later produced and starred in various films and television projects. Fairbanks held leadership roles in film industry organizations. He married actress Joan Crawford in 1929 and had a high-profile personal life. He died in 2000, remembered as a versatile performer and war hero.