May 10

John Wilkes Booth was a popular American stage actor and Confederate sympathizer best known for assassinating President Abraham Lincoln at Ford’s Theatre on April 14, 1865. Born into a prominent theatrical family, Booth enjoyed success on the 19th century stage with charismatic performances in Shakespearean roles. His vehement support for the Confederacy led him to plot against Lincoln and other government officials. After the assassination, Booth fled and was pursued for 12 days before being cornered and killed. His act dramatically altered American history and cemented his reputation as one of the most infamous figures of the Civil War era.

Fred Astaire revolutionized dance on screen with his elegant style, combining tap, ballroom, and ballet influences. Appearing in over 30 films, he formed iconic partnerships with Ginger Rogers and choreographed many of his own routines. Astaire's performances in classics like Top Hat (1935) and Swing Time (1936) set new standards for musical cinema. A five-time Oscar nominee, he received an honorary Academy Award in 1950. His influence endures in dance, theatre, and popular culture worldwide.

Nancy Walker was an American actress, comedian, and director born in 1922 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She began her career on Broadway, winning acclaim for her work in musical theater. Walker became a familiar face on television with memorable roles on The Mary Tyler Moore Show and Rhoda. She also appeared in commercials and directed episodes of several sitcoms. Known for her sharp wit and timing, she earned multiple Emmy nominations. Walker continued acting and directing until her death in 1992.

George Coe was born in Jamaica, New York, in 1929. He began his career on Broadway and quickly gained acclaim for his stage work. Coe was one of the original cast members on Saturday Night Live's debut season in 1975. He appeared in landmark films such as To Kill a Mockingbird and provided voice work for Pixar's Cars. His talent spanned drama and comedy, earning him respect across multiple entertainment mediums. Coe continued acting well into his later years, leaving a lasting legacy in American theater and film.

Ettore Scola was born in Trevico, Italy, in 1931 and began his career as a screenwriter in the 1950s. He made his directorial debut in 1964 and quickly gained acclaim for his keen observations of society. His films, including A Special Day and We All Loved Each Other So Much, combined humor with poignant social commentary. Scola received awards and nominations at Cannes and the Academy Awards. He remained active in filmmaking until his death in 2016. His work has left an enduring legacy in European cinema.

Judith Jamison was born in Philadelphia in 1943 and joined the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in 1965. As a principal dancer, she earned acclaim for her expressive style and technical mastery. In 1989, she became the company's artistic director and led it through four decades of artistic innovation. Jamison created landmark works like Cry and Night Creature, exploring themes of resilience and spirituality. She has taught and lectured widely, sharing her passion for dance with new generations. Jamison's influence on modern dance is immense and continues to inspire performers around the globe.

Marie-France Pisier (1944–2011) was a celebrated French actress, director, and screenwriter. She rose to prominence with roles in François Truffaut's films such as The Wild Child and Day for Night. Pisier received a César Award for Best Supporting Actress and earned multiple nominations throughout her career. In addition to acting, she directed feature films and television projects, showcasing her versatility behind the camera. She collaborated with renowned directors and remained a respected figure in French cinema until her untimely death.

Michael Gerard Hagerty appeared in dozens of popular TV shows and movies, often portraying gruff yet lovable working-class characters. He is best remembered as Gordon, the building superintendent on Friends, and as Mr. Treeger on Malcolm in the Middle. Hagerty's distinctive appearance and authentic performances earned him roles in comedies such as "Benny & Joon" and "Speed". A respected member of the comedic acting community, he worked with filmmakers such as Mark Waters and the Farrelly brothers. His career spanned over three decades until his passing in 2022, leaving a legacy of warmth and humor.

Victoria Rowell is an American actress, writer, and producer who rose to fame with her portrayal of Drucilla Winters on the soap opera The Young and the Restless. She earned multiple Daytime Emmy nominations for her groundbreaking performance. Rowell has also written two memoirs detailing her experiences in foster care and Hollywood. In addition to acting, she has produced and directed stage productions and founded the Rowell Foster Children Positive Plan to advocate for children in the foster care system. Her career spans over three decades of memorable roles and dedicated activism.

Born on 10 May 1968, Al Murray rose to fame as 'The Pub Landlord,' a character parodying British pub culture. He won the Perrier Comedy Award in 1999, cementing his status as one of the UK's top comedians. He has hosted television series such as Al Murray's Happy Hour and Food and Drink. His live shows have sold out major venues, celebrated for sharp one-liners and audience interaction. Beyond stand-up, he has written books and appeared in films, showcasing his versatile comedic talents. He continues to tour internationally, bringing his unique brand of humor to audiences worldwide.

Born on May 10, 1978 in Atlanta, Georgia, Kenan Thompson began his career as a child actor on Nickelodeon, starring in shows like All That and as one half of the comedy duo Kenan & Kel. In 2003, he joined Saturday Night Live and has since become its longest-serving cast member, beloved for characters such as Diondre Cole and his work on Celebrity Jeopardy! sketches. Thompson has appeared in films including Good Burger, Fat Albert, and The Smurfs, and has received multiple Emmy nominations for his comedic performances. His warm personality and improvisational skill make him a standout in American comedy.

Brittany Broski was born on May 10, 1997, in Dallas, Texas. She gained international attention in 2019 when a TikTok video of her reacting to kombucha went viral, earning her the nickname "Kombucha Girl." Since then, she has built a career with comedic sketches, podcasts, and live performances, showcasing her quick wit and expressive humor. In addition to comedy, Brittany has released music singles and performs as a singer, blending humor with melody. She has appeared on television and digital platforms, amassing millions of followers who appreciate her relatable content and vibrant personality. Brittany continues to expand her creative endeavors, exploring new formats in entertainment and music.