May 15

Marie Champmeslé (1642–1698) was a celebrated French actress of the Grand Siècle, admired by King Louis XIV and playwright Jean Racine. She originated leading roles in Racine’s tragedies such as Andromaque and Bérénice, showcasing her emotional depth and strong stage presence. Champmeslé co-founded the Hôtel de Bourgogne theater company with her husband, influencing the direction of Parisian drama. Her performances set new artistic standards in classical French theater. She remains a pivotal figure in the history of European acting.

Jackie Curtis was an American actress, playwright, and author integral to the 1960s New York underground culture. A member of Andy Warhol's Factory, Curtis blended performance, drag, and experimental theater in groundbreaking works. She wrote and starred in plays like 'Glamour, Glory and Gold,' exploring gender and identity. Her vibrant persona and androgynous style influenced the emerging glam rock and drag movements. Curtis's legacy endures in contemporary theater and queer performance art.

Gilbert Roland was a versatile actor born in 1905 who transitioned seamlessly from silent films to talkies and television. He appeared in dozens of films during Hollywood's Golden Age, often portraying suave leading men and romantic interests. Roland brought grace and charisma to roles in classics such as The Bad and the Beautiful and The Black Swan. He also had a successful later career on television, guest-starring on popular series across multiple decades. Celebrated for his enduring screen presence, he became one of the most recognizable Hispanic actors in American cinema. He passed away in 1994, leaving a legacy of memorable performances.

Eric Porter was a British actor known for his versatile performances in film, television, and theatre. Born in 1928, he gained acclaim for his work with the Royal Shakespeare Company and memorable screen roles in the film A Taste of Honey and the TV series Colditz. He received multiple award nominations for his dramatic portrayals and was admired for his intense presence on stage. Over a career spanning more than four decades, Porter showcased a remarkable range from Shakespearean drama to contemporary television. He passed away in 1995, leaving behind a legacy of powerful and emotive acting.

June Carter Cash was a celebrated American singer-songwriter, guitarist, and actress. Born in 1929 into the renowned Carter Family dynasty, she began performing from childhood alongside her mother, Maybelle Carter. June co-wrote several hit songs, including the Grammy-winning single Jackson, popularized by her husband Johnny Cash. She appeared in films and television, showcasing her talent as a performer and comedian. Beyond her musical achievements, she was known for her warm stage presence and charitable work. She married Johnny Cash in 1968 and collaborated with him on numerous projects. June passed away in 2003, leaving an enduring legacy in country music.

Charles Tingwell, known as Bud Tingwell, was a revered Australian actor whose career spanned over six decades. Born in 1923, he served as a Royal Australian Air Force navigator during World War II before entering acting. Tingwell appeared in British films such as A Town Like Alice and the TV series The Avengers. Returning to Australia, he became a fixture on screen and stage, starring in landmark TV dramas like Bellbird. He also produced and directed television productions, contributing behind the scenes. His warm screen presence and versatility earned him national recognition and an Order of Australia. Tingwell continued acting into his 80s, appearing in modern films like The Castle. He passed away in 2009, leaving a legacy as a pioneer of Australian entertainment.

Born in 1933, he began his career at the Nikkatsu film studio. He gained recognition for his bold visual style and genre-blending narratives. He directed cult classics such as "School of the Holy Beast" and "Terrifying Girls' High School". His work helped define the Japanese exploitation genre of the 1970s. He wrote screenplays for a variety of action and drama films throughout his career. He passed away in 2014, leaving a lasting impact on genre filmmaking in Japan.

Born in 1933, he began his career in improvisational comedy at The Second City in Chicago. He appeared in iconic films such as "Best in Show" and "This Is Spinal Tap" and numerous television comedies. His deadpan style and supportive ensemble work earned him multiple Emmy nominations. He was also a talented voice actor and writer, contributing to various animated and live-action projects. He mentored young comedians and remained active in the comedy community for decades. He passed away in 2020 at the age of 86, leaving behind a legacy of laughter.

Kay Mellor (11 May 1951 – 15 May 2022) was an English actress, screenwriter, and director. She began her career acting in stage and television productions before moving into writing. Her breakthrough came with the BBC drama Band of Gold in 1995, which she both wrote and produced. She created and wrote hit series such as Fat Friends, Playing the Field, and The Syndicate, often drawing on her working-class upbringing in Leeds. Mellor directed episodes of her own shows, earning praise for authentic character-driven storytelling. In recognition of her contributions to television drama, she was awarded an OBE in 2015.