May 12

He began his career in German silent cinema, gaining praise for intense, expressionist roles. Kortner worked with leading directors of the Weimar era, becoming a prominent stage performer. Faced with Nazi oppression, he emigrated to the United States in 1933 and continued his work in theater. After World War II, he returned to Germany to direct and act in major theater productions. He was known for his dynamic acting style and for pushing the boundaries of stagecraft. His contributions helped shape modern German theater and film performance.

Born in Vienna in 1900, Helene Weigel trained in drama before joining Brecht's Berliner Ensemble in the late 1920s. She married playwright Bertolt Brecht in 1930 and became the definitive interpreter of his epic theater roles, most famously Mother Courage. Exiled during the Nazi era, she continued her work in Sweden and the United States. Returning to East Germany in 1948, she co-founded the Berliner Ensemble and served as its artistic director, shaping modern theater with innovative staging and social commentary. Weigel's powerful stage presence and commitment to political themes influenced actors and directors worldwide. She remained a central figure in theater until her death in 1971.

Born on the Isle of Wight in 1903, Wilfrid Hyde-White studied at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and began his career on the London stage. He transitioned to cinema with standout performances in classics like The Third Man and My Fair Lady, in which he portrayed Colonel Pickering. His elegant demeanor and sharp comic timing made him a sought-after character actor on both sides of the Atlantic. He also appeared frequently on Broadway and the West End, earning praise for his versatility. Beyond acting, Hyde-White was an avid traveler and storyteller. Over a career spanning six decades, he appeared in more than 100 films and television productions before retiring in the late 1980s.

Born in Hartford, Connecticut in 1907, Katharine Hepburn challenged Hollywood conventions with her strong-willed characters and distinctive voice. She made her film debut in Morning Glory (1933), winning her first Oscar, and went on to earn three more for Guess Who's Coming to Dinner (1967), The Lion in Winter (1968), and On Golden Pond (1981). Her on-screen partnership with Spencer Tracy produced some of cinema's most beloved romantic dramas. Known for her tomboyish style and unwavering professionalism, she maintained a fiercely private life off screen. Hepburn also appeared on Broadway, showcasing her versatility as a stage actress. Over a six-decade career, she became a symbol of female empowerment and remains a cultural icon.

Born in Waco, Texas in 1914, Howard K. Smith began as a radio correspondent for Mutual during World War II, reporting from the front lines in Europe. He joined CBS News and gained acclaim for his insightful dispatches on the Allied advance and postwar reconstruction. Smith later co-anchored the CBS Evening News and moved to ABC, where he anchored landmark coverage of the Kennedy assassination and the Vietnam War. Known for his calm demeanor and probing interviews, he became a trusted voice in American households. Beyond journalism, he made occasional film and television appearances, demonstrating his on-screen presence. Smith authored several books on media and politics, reflecting on changes in broadcast journalism. His career spanned five decades, shaping the evolution of modern news until his retirement in the late 1970s.

Tony Hancock (1924–1968) was an English comedian, actor, and writer best known for his work on the BBC radio and television series Hancock's Half Hour. He began his career in provincial theatre and radio before gaining fame for his dry wit and portrayal of the frustrated everyman. Hancock wrote episodes of his sitcom, blending observational humor with satirical commentary. He starred in films such as The Rebel (1961) and toured in live performances. Despite his success, Hancock struggled with depression and alcoholism, which contributed to his tragic death by suicide at age 44 while on tour in Australia. His innovative comedic style influenced a generation of British performers and remains celebrated for its timeless appeal.

George Carlin's comedic career spanned five decades, redefining stand-up with edgy insights. His routine "Seven Words You Can Never Say on Television" became a landmark in free speech debates. Carlin appeared in films and television, showcasing his versatile acting talents. As an author, he published several best-selling books of essays and comedic reflections. He won five Grammy Awards for his comedy albums and remains a towering influence in comedy.

Bruce Boxleitner was born in 1950 in Elgin, Illinois. He rose to prominence playing the title character in the 1982 film Tron and reprised the role in Tron: Legacy. Boxleitner also starred as Captain John Sheridan in the science fiction series Babylon 5, earning critical acclaim. His television credits include Scarecrow and Mrs. King, How the West Was Won, and Dallas. In addition to acting, he has written science fiction novels and screenplays. Boxleitner continues to work in film, television, and literature, maintaining a loyal fan base across genres.

Gabriel Byrne was born in 1950 in Dublin, Ireland. He began his acting journey on the stage before transitioning to film, appearing in movies such as Excalibur and Miller's Crossing. Byrne earned a Golden Globe Award for his performance in the television series In Treatment and received critical praise for roles in The Usual Suspects and Little Women. He has directed and produced projects that explore complex characters and social issues. Active in theatre, Byrne has performed in productions at the National Theatre in London and the Abbey Theatre in Dublin. Off-screen, he is an advocate for mental health awareness and human rights.

Ving Rhames is an American actor known for his commanding presence and deep voice. He gained acclaim for his role as Luther Stickell in the Mission: Impossible film series. Rhames won a Primetime Emmy Award for his performance in the HBO movie Don King: Only in America. He also appeared in films such as Pulp Fiction, Con Air, and Dead Man Walking. His versatility has led him to work in comedy, drama, and action genres. Rhames has lent his voice to animated projects and video games, showcasing his distinctive tone. He continues to be a respected figure in Hollywood for both his talent and philanthropic efforts.

Emilio Estevez is an American actor, director, and writer, and a prominent member of the 1980s Brat Pack. He gained recognition for his roles in The Breakfast Club and St. Elmo's Fire. Estevez wrote and directed films such as Wisdom and Men at Work, showcasing his talent behind the camera. In 2006, he directed and starred in Bobby, a film about the assassination of Robert F. Kennedy. He is the eldest son of actor Martin Sheen and has maintained a successful career spanning over four decades. Estevez has balanced mainstream Hollywood roles with independent projects, earning respect for his creative versatility. He continues to act and direct while exploring new storytelling mediums.

Stephen Baldwin is an American actor and producer, the youngest of the Baldwin brothers. He made his film debut in The Beastmaster and gained attention for his role in The Usual Suspects. Baldwin starred in Haywire and Bio-Dome, showcasing his range in both drama and comedy. He appeared in television shows such as 8 Simple Rules and the reality series Celebrity Apprentice. In addition to acting, Baldwin has produced and directed faith-based films. He is known for his evangelical Christian beliefs and active involvement in religious outreach. Baldwin continues to work in film and television while advocating for his faith.