May 17

Dorothy Gibson rose to fame as a leading actress in early silent films produced by the Edison Company. In 1911 she recorded the first motion picture narrative based on real events, surviving the RMS Titanic disaster in 1912. She portrayed herself in the 1913 film 'The Sinking of the Titanic,' blending reality and cinema. As a singer and songwriter, she toured vaudeville circuits, pioneering cross-media entertainment. Her groundbreaking career set precedents for authenticity in film, and her life story continues to fascinate historians and biographers.

Lisa Fonssagrives enjoyed a prolific modeling career in the 1930s and 1940s, gracing the covers of Vogue and Harper's Bazaar. She worked with prominent photographers such as Irving Penn and George Hoyningen-Huene, shaping modern fashion photography. Born in Sweden, she moved to Paris before settling in New York, where her sculptural poses set new standards for style. Fonssagrives later pursued art, becoming a sculptor and art collector with exhibitions in major galleries. She was married to photographer Fernand Fonssagrives, with whom she had three children, including actor Miguel Ferrer. Her influence endures in the realms of fashion and art history.

Maureen O'Sullivan began her acting career in 1930s Hollywood, quickly earning acclaim for her charm and beauty. She starred in six Tarzan films alongside Johnny Weissmuller, making Jane an iconic screen character. Beyond Tarzan, O'Sullivan appeared in films such as 'The Thin Man' and 'A Day in the Country'. She later transitioned to radio, television, and stage roles, showcasing her versatility as a performer. Mother to actress Mia Farrow, she balanced a prolific career with raising seven children. O'Sullivan's enduring screen presence remains beloved by classic film enthusiasts.

Joan Benham (1918–1981) was an English actress with a career spanning over four decades. She gained fame for portraying Lady Prudence Fairfax in the acclaimed television series 'Upstairs, Downstairs' (1971–1973). Benham appeared in numerous films, including entries in the 'Carry On' series, and performed extensively on stage. Her versatility allowed her to excel in both comedic and dramatic roles. She was celebrated for her commanding presence and nuanced character portrayals. Her contributions left a lasting impact on British theatre and television.

Antonio Aguilar (1919–2007) was a prolific Mexican singer-songwriter, actor, producer, and screenwriter. Nicknamed 'El Charro de México', he popularized ranchera music across Latin America and beyond. Aguilar starred in over 150 films, often showcasing his equestrian skills and musical talents. He founded his own production company, promoting regional culture and folklore through cinema. His recordings sold millions of copies, and he toured extensively, bridging traditional and modern Mexican music. His family continued his artistic legacy, with his children and grandchildren becoming renowned performers.

Dietmar Schönherr (1926–2014) was an Austrian-born actor who became a household name in German-language cinema and television. He starred in the cult sci-fi series 'Raumpatrouille Orion', earning enduring fan admiration. Beyond acting, Schönherr directed and penned scripts for stage and screen, showcasing his creative range. Together with his wife, actress Vivi Bach, he shaped the entertainment landscape of post-war Europe. His versatility and charisma left a lasting impact on Central European film and television culture.

Dennis Potter began his career as a voice actor on British radio, showcasing a distinctive tone and range. He transitioned to directing and producing, creating stage and television productions acclaimed for their depth. As a screenwriter, Potter wrote original scripts that often blended fantasy and reality, challenging narrative conventions. His works, such as 'Pennies from Heaven' and 'The Singing Detective', earned critical acclaim and influenced subsequent generations of storytellers. Potter's exploration of memory and identity became hallmarks of his style. He received numerous awards for both his writing and directing before his untimely death in 1994. His innovative approach expanded the possibilities of television drama. Potter's legacy endures through his groundbreaking contributions to British cinema and TV.

Dennis Hopper emerged as a countercultural icon with his co-starring role and direction of the 1969 film 'Easy Rider', a landmark in American independent cinema. His raw, energetic performance captured the spirit of rebellion, influencing generations of filmmakers. Hopper's acting career spanned over five decades, featuring memorable roles in 'Blue Velvet', 'Hoosiers', and 'Apocalypse Now'. As a director, he explored diverse genres, creating visually striking films that pushed artistic boundaries. Beyond film, Hopper was an accomplished photographer and painter, exhibiting his work internationally. His personal life was marked by periods of struggle and reinvention, which he often channeled into his art. Hopper received critical acclaim and awards for both acting and directing. He passed away in 2010, leaving an indelible mark on the film industry through his fearless creativity.

Jason Bernard began his acting career on stage in the 1960s before transitioning to television and film. He appeared in hit TV series like 'Starsky & Hutch', 'Kojak', and 'The White Shadow', often portraying figures of authority. Bernard's film credits include 'Logan's Run', 'Escape from New York', and 'Superman II', where his commanding presence stood out. He was also active in the Screen Actors Guild, championing performers' rights. Bernard's versatility and professionalism made him a respected figure among peers. His life was tragically cut short in 1996 following a traffic accident. He is remembered for bringing depth and gravitas to every role he undertook.

William 'Bill' Paxton was born on May 17, 1955, in Fort Worth, Texas. He rose to fame with roles in genre classics like The Terminator and Aliens, showcasing his versatility. Paxton received a Golden Globe nomination for his performance in Titanic and starred in True Lies and Apollo 13. He expanded his career into directing and producing, notably creating and starring in the HBO series Big Love. His charismatic screen presence and creative talent made him a beloved figure in Hollywood. Paxton passed away unexpectedly in 2017, leaving behind a rich legacy of film and television work.

Born on May 17, 1956 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Bob Saget began his career in stand-up comedy before transitioning to television and film. He gained widespread fame portraying Danny Tanner on the long-running sitcom Full House from 1987 to 1995. In addition, he served as the inaugural host of America's Funniest Home Videos from 1989 to 1997, bringing humorous home videos to audiences nationwide. Saget appeared in several films, including Half Baked, and lent his voice to characters on hit shows like How I Met Your Mother. Known for his affable persona and candid stand-up routines, he continued touring comedy clubs throughout his career. His unexpected passing in 2022 was met with tributes from fans and colleagues alike, underscoring his lasting impact on comedy and television.

Born on May 17, 1960 in Brooklyn, New York, Lou DiBella began his career as a Wall Street lawyer before entering the boxing world. He founded DiBella Entertainment in 2001 and went on to promote champions such as Paul Williams and Jorge Linares. DiBella also served as a producer on acclaimed documentaries like The Fighter, showcasing his versatility beyond the ring. In addition to his promotional work, he appeared as an actor in films like The Irishman and supported numerous charitable causes. His reputation for ethical promotion and fighter advocacy has earned him respect across the boxing community. DiBella continues to influence the sport as a key figure in modern boxing promotion.