May 18

Isabella Glyn was born in Glasgow in 1823 and rose to prominence on the British stage during the mid-19th century. She excelled in dramatic and Shakespearean roles, earning praise for her emotional depth and commanding presence. Glyn toured extensively, including successful performances in the United States. Her interpretations of characters like Lady Macbeth and Queen Katherine influenced acting styles of her time. She also mentored younger actors and contributed to the professionalization of theatre. Glyn died in 1889, remembered as a leading figure of Victorian theatre.

Arthur O'Connell (1908–1981) was an American actor whose career spanned stage, film, and television. He began acting in New York theater before moving to Hollywood, where he became a sought-after supporting player. O'Connell earned Academy Award nominations for Best Supporting Actor for his performances in Picnic (1955) and Anatomy of a Murder (1959). His roles often brought warmth, humor, and depth to every character he portrayed. Beyond his film work, he appeared in popular television series including Peyton Place and Mister Roberts. Known for his distinctive voice and affable demeanor, O'Connell made a lasting impression even in brief screen appearances. He continued acting until shortly before his death on May 18, 1981. Today, film enthusiasts remember him for his versatility and enduring on-screen presence.

Jill Dorothy Ireland (1936–1990) was an English actress whose career spanned film and television. She made her screen debut in the 1950s and gained prominence with roles in British films such as The Man Between (1953). Ireland met actor Charles Bronson on the set of The Great Escape and later married him, appearing together in several movies including The Dirty Dozen and Breakout. She transitioned to television in the 1970s with guest roles on series like Hart to Hart. In addition to acting, Ireland authored memoirs about her life in Hollywood and her battles with personal tragedy. Her openness about her struggles with breast cancer raised awareness and earned her respect as an advocate for cancer research. Ireland continued working until her death from cancer on May 18, 1990. Her performances and written works remain poignant reminders of her talent and resilience.

Elisha Cook, Jr. (1903–1995) was an American character actor whose career spanned over six decades. He specialized in playing slight, anxious characters, often in film noir and crime dramas. Cook’s memorable performances include Wilmer Cook in The Maltese Falcon (1941) and Eddie Mars’s henchman in The Big Sleep (1946). He also appeared in Hitchcock’s Shadow of a Doubt (1943) and countless television series. Despite his diminutive stature, Cook commanded attention with his distinctive voice and intense screen presence. He continued acting on stage and screen well into his eighties. His final film appearance was in Oliver Stone’s JFK (1991). Today, film historians praise Cook’s nuanced portrayals that enriched Hollywood’s Golden Age.

Alexander Borisovich Godunov (1949–1995) was a Russian-born ballet dancer and actor renowned for his powerful stage presence. He trained at the Bolshoi Ballet School and became a principal dancer with the Bolshoi Ballet, earning international acclaim. Godunov defected to the United States in 1979 during a tour, sparking an international incident that highlighted Cold War tensions. He continued his dance career in America, performing with major companies and appearing on Broadway. Transitioning to film, Godunov made his acting debut in Witness (1985) and gained wider recognition as one of Hans Gruber’s henchmen in Die Hard (1988). His rich baritone voice and commanding presence made him a natural on-screen villain. Godunov’s legacy endures through his influential dance performances and iconic film roles. He died of a heart attack in 1995, leaving behind a trail of memorable artistic achievements.

Born into a Hollywood family on April 15, 1933, she made her screen debut in The Court-Martial of Billy Mitchell. Montgomery achieved stardom in 1964 with the premiere of Bewitched, portraying a modern witch balancing domestic life and magical adventures. She broke gender norms by depicting a strong, independent female character in a lead sitcom role. After Bewitched, she delivered acclaimed performances in television movies and stage productions. Her work earned multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations, solidifying her status as a television icon. Montgomery's charm and talent left a lasting legacy in entertainment history.

Born in 1911 in Long Island City, Pevney began his career on Broadway before transitioning to Hollywood films. He appeared in musicals and dramas throughout the 1940s and 1950s and later shifted to directing in the late 1950s. He directed episodes of popular television series such as Star Trek and Rawhide, demonstrating a strong focus on character and narrative. Over his career, he helmed more than 50 television episodes and several feature films. Pevney’s work influenced both the acting and directing communities. He passed away in 2008, leaving a rich legacy in mid-century American entertainment.

Born in 1947 in Glendale, California, Allwine began his career at Walt Disney Studios as a sound effects editor and Foley artist. In 1977, he became the official voice of Mickey Mouse, succeeding his predecessor and entertaining audiences worldwide. For over three decades, he brought the iconic character to life in films, television shows, and theme park attractions. Allwine also contributed behind the scenes to the sound design of countless Disney productions. He was married to Russi Taylor, the voice of Minnie Mouse, forming a beloved partnership among fans. He passed away in 2009, remembered for his enduring legacy in animation and entertainment.

Born William Forrest Andrews in Huntsville, Alabama, in 1925, Steve Forrest began his career on Broadway. He transitioned to film in the 1950s and appeared in over 20 movies, including So Big and Up Periscope. In 1975, he gained widespread fame starring as Lt. Dan 'Hondo' Harrelson in the hit TV series S.W.A.T., earning critical acclaim. Forrest continued acting in film and television for over five decades, with guest roles on Dallas and Murder, She Wrote. He passed away in 2013, leaving behind a legacy as a versatile character actor.

Ken Osmond gained fame as Eddie Haskell, the sly and mischievous teenager on the sitcom 'Leave It to Beaver'. After the show's run from 1957 to 1963, he joined the Los Angeles Police Department, serving as a detective for over two decades. Osmond made occasional returns to acting in guest roles and participated in reunions and retrospectives. His unique dual career as a beloved TV character and law enforcement officer made him a cultural icon. He passed away in 2020, remembered for both his on-screen persona and public service.

Charles Grodin emerged as a talented actor in the 1960s, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor in 'The Heartbreak Kid'. He became beloved for his deadpan comedic style in films like 'Midnight Run' and 'Benny & Joon'. Grodin later transitioned to television, hosting his own talk show on CNBC and appearing as a frequent guest on late-night programs. He wrote memoirs and worked as a political satirist, showcasing his sharp wit. Grodin's career spanned over five decades, leaving a legacy of humor and versatility when he passed away in 2021.

Jim Brown dominated the NFL as a fullback for the Cleveland Browns from 1957 to 1965, leading the league in rushing yards eight times and earning nine Pro Bowl selections. After retiring at the peak of his career, he pursued acting, appearing in films like 'The Dirty Dozen' and paving the way for future athletes in Hollywood. Brown also founded the Negro Industrial Economic Union to combat poverty and organized civil rights marches alongside Martin Luther King Jr. His work in community empowerment earned him recognition beyond sports. Widely regarded as one of the greatest football players ever, Brown passed away in 2023, leaving an indelible mark on sports and society.