May 12

Born Carl Henry Calhern in 1895, he began his career on Broadway in the 1920s. He transitioned to Hollywood, becoming a prolific supporting actor in film noir and historical dramas. His smooth baritone voice and dignified presence made him stand out in roles of authority. He earned an Academy Award nomination for his performance in The Magnificent Yankee. Calhern's stage and film work left a lasting impression on mid-20th-century American cinema. He passed away in 1956 after a career spanning over three decades.

Born in Vienna in 1885, von Stroheim immigrated to the United States in the early 1910s. He gained fame directing silent classics like Greed, renowned for its epic scale and attention to detail. Often portraying Prussian military officers, he became Hollywood's archetypal mad baron. After conflicts with studio executives, he shifted to acting, earning acclaim for character roles. His collaborations with directors like Billy Wilder cemented his legacy in sound cinema. He died in 1957, remembered as one of early Hollywood's most complex talents.

Elisabeth Bergner was born in Drohobych in 1897 and began her acting career in Berlin. She gained international acclaim for her roles in films like Escape Me Never, earning an Oscar nomination. Bergner fled Nazi Germany in 1933, continuing her career in the United Kingdom. Her portrayals were praised for their emotional depth and sensitivity. She returned to the stage and screen after World War II, delighting audiences with her talent. Bergner passed away in London in 1986, leaving a lasting legacy in theater and film.

Robert Reed (1932–1992) was an American actor who gained fame for his role as Mike Brady in the iconic sitcom 'The Brady Bunch'. He began his career on stage with several Broadway credits before transitioning to film and television. Reed earned critical praise for his dramatic performances and received award nominations throughout his career. Known for his meticulous rehearsal habits and professional dedication, he brought depth and dignity to his roles. Despite his television fame, he maintained a private personal life. He continued acting in television movies and theater until his death at age 59.

Perry Como (1912–2001) was a celebrated American crooner whose relaxed vocal style earned him millions of fans worldwide. Rising to fame in the 1940s, Como scored hits with songs like 'Catch a Falling Star' and 'Magic Moments' and became a staple on radio broadcasts. He successfully transitioned to television with 'The Perry Como Show,' which ran for more than a decade and showcased his warm on-screen presence. Como earned multiple Emmy Awards and Grammy nominations, cementing his status as an entertainment icon. Known for his gentlemanly demeanor and signature relaxed manner, he influenced future generations of singers and TV hosts. He continued performing and recording into his late eighties before passing away at age 88.

Born in 1937 in Hagfors, Sweden, Monica Zetterlund rose to fame as a jazz singer. She made her acting debut in the early 1960s and quickly became a beloved figure in Swedish cinema. Zetterlund collaborated with international jazz artists and released several acclaimed albums. She appeared in multiple Swedish films and stage productions, showcasing her versatility. Zetterlund was awarded multiple Swedish Grammis awards for her contributions to jazz. Her delicate voice and emotive interpretations left a lasting impact on Scandinavian music.

Cornell Borchers (1925-2014) was a Lithuanian-German actress and singer who rose to fame in the late 1940s. She starred in German classics before breaking into Hollywood with roles in 'The Big Lift' and 'Decision Before Dawn'. Borchers was admired for her versatility and grace on screen and stage. She also toured as a concert singer, showcasing her vocal talent across Europe. After a successful career, she retired to focus on her family and left a lasting legacy in film and music.

Sarat Pujari (1934-2014) was an Indian actor, director, and screenwriter instrumental in the growth of Odia (Oriya) cinema. He began his career in theater before moving to film, starring in classics like 'Jajabara' and 'Adina Megha'. Pujari directed and wrote screenplays that addressed social themes and cultural identity in Odisha. He served as chairman of the Orissa Film Development Corporation, promoting regional talent. His passion for storytelling and mentorship nurtured generations of Odia filmmakers.

Mark Damon (1933–2024) began his career as an actor in the 1950s, appearing in a range of Hollywood films. He gained recognition in European cinema, particularly for his roles in spaghetti westerns during the 1960s. Transitioning to behind-the-scenes work, Damon founded the Producers Sales Organization, which introduced European films to American audiences. As a producer and distributor, he played a key role in the global success of numerous independent films. His dual legacy as an on-screen performer and film industry entrepreneur left a lasting impact on international cinema.