May 16

Andy Kaufman rose to fame with his offbeat comedy performances on stage and television during the 1970s. He created eccentric personas like Foreign Man, which evolved into Latka Gravas on the sitcom Taxi. Kaufman frequently blurred the lines between reality and performance, leaving audiences questioning what was real. He showcased his talents on shows like Saturday Night Live and in comedy clubs across the country. In addition to performing, he wrote sketches and screenplays that pushed the boundaries of traditional comedy. His influence endures through films like Man on the Moon, which paid tribute to his innovative spirit. He passed away in 1984, but his daring approach continues to inspire comedians and entertainers.

Margaret Hamilton gained international fame for her unforgettable portrayal of the Wicked Witch of the West in the 1939 classic The Wizard of Oz. Before her breakthrough film role, she enjoyed a successful stage career on Broadway and in regional theater. Her green-faced villainess became one of cinema’s most enduring characters, sparking both fear and admiration. Hamilton also worked extensively in radio, television, and film throughout the 1940s and 1950s, often in comedic roles. Behind the scenes, she was known for her kindness and professionalism on set. Later in life, she became active in civic causes and education, sharing stories of her Hollywood experiences. She passed away in 1985, leaving behind a legacy as one of Hollywood’s most memorable character actresses.

Sammy Davis Jr. began his career as a child performer in vaudeville before becoming a star of stage and screen. He broke racial barriers as the first African American member of the Rat Pack alongside Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. Known for his dynamic stage presence, Davis excelled in singing, dancing, and acting across multiple genres. His signature songs include "The Candy Man" and "Mr. Bojangles," showcasing his vocal versatility. Davis also appeared in films such as Ocean’s 11 and won awards for his television work. Beyond entertainment, he served in the U.S. Army during World War II and was a vocal advocate for civil rights. He passed away in 1990, leaving a lasting influence on American popular culture.

Jim Henson pioneered modern puppetry with characters like Kermit the Frog on his early show Sam and Friends. He co-created The Muppet Show, which became a global phenomenon blending humor and heart. Henson’s characters also starred on Sesame Street, educating children worldwide for generations. He expanded his artistic vision into film with projects such as The Dark Crystal and Labyrinth. As a director, producer, and screenwriter, Henson championed creative storytelling through puppetry. His collaborations with Frank Oz and other performers set new standards for character animation. Henson’s imaginative legacy continues to inspire artists and entertain audiences around the world.

Alain Cuny trained at the Conservatoire de Paris before embarking on a distinguished stage and film career. He impressed audiences with his poetic gravitas in Jean Cocteau’s La Belle et la Bête (1946). Cuny collaborated with Ingmar Bergman in films such as The Magician and The Silence, showcasing his versatility. On stage, he performed works ranging from classical tragedies to avant-garde dramas. His deep voice and commanding presence made him a sought-after character actor in European cinema. Cuny continued acting into his eighties, leaving behind a rich legacy of dramatic performances. He passed away in 1994, remembered as one of France’s most captivating actors.

Born in London in 1932 as the son of acclaimed actor Sir Cedric Hardwicke. He began his stage career with the Royal Shakespeare Company and appeared in numerous classical productions. Hardwicke earned widespread acclaim for his portrayal of Dr. John Watson opposite Jeremy Brett in Granada Television’s Sherlock Holmes adaptations. His film credits included roles in Nicholas and Alexandra and A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum. With a career spanning over five decades, he became one of Britain’s most respected character actors. He passed away on May 16, 2011, leaving a legacy of memorable performances.

Born in 1934 in Niigata Prefecture, he began his acting career in theater and film in the 1950s. Kodama gained nationwide fame as the warm and engaging host of the television quiz show 'Panel Quiz Attack 25', a role he held for nearly three decades. He appeared in numerous films and TV dramas, demonstrating versatility across genres. Respected for his quick wit and gentle demeanor, he became a beloved figure in Japanese entertainment. He succumbed to illness and passed away on May 16, 2011, leaving an enduring legacy as a pioneer of Japanese quiz programming.

Paul Shane was born in Thrybergh, England in 1940 and began performing in local clubs before transitioning to television. He gained national fame for his role as camp entertainer Ted Bovis in the BBC sitcom 'Hi-de-Hi!' from 1980 to 1988. His energetic comic timing and distinctive voice made him a household name in the UK. Shane also appeared in other television series such as 'Emmerdale' and toured extensively as a stand-up comedian. He released several comedy albums and became renowned for his engaging live performances. Shane's career spanned decades, and he remained dedicated to entertaining audiences until his final years. He passed away on May 16, 2013, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and memorable characters.

Prashant Bhargava was born in Chicago in 1973 and transitioned from computer science to filmmaking. His first feature film, 'Patang (The Kite)', premiered in 2013 and won accolades at the Los Angeles Film Festival and other international events. Bhargava's lyrical visual style and exploration of cultural themes garnered critical praise. He directed music videos and commercials that showcased his cinematic vision and technical skill. Bhargava co-founded Moxie Pictures to support underrepresented voices in film and foster collaboration among artists. He mentored emerging filmmakers and championed diversity both on screen and behind the camera. Bhargava passed away on May 16, 2015, at the age of 41, leaving a promising legacy in independent cinema.

Dabney Wharton Coleman was born in 1932 in Austin, Texas, and began his acting career on Broadway before transitioning to film and television. He rose to prominence in the 1970s and 1980s with memorable roles in films such as '9 to 5', 'Tootsie', and 'WarGames.' On television, he earned accolades for his work in the series 'Buffalo Bill' and 'Boardwalk Empire.' Coleman's trademark blend of humor and gruff charm made him a beloved character actor. He received multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations throughout his career. Beyond acting, Coleman was known for his philanthropy, supporting arts education programs across the United States. He passed away in 2024, leaving behind a rich legacy of memorable performances.