May 26

Born in Cincinnati in 1883, she gained fame as a vaudeville performer and nightclub singer. In 1920, she recorded 'Crazy Blues', becoming the first African American to record vocal blues commercially. Her groundbreaking success helped launch the blues and jazz recording industry for Black artists. With a career spanning music, dance, and acting, she broke racial barriers in entertainment. She inspired generations of musicians until her death in 1946, leaving a lasting legacy in American music history.

Born in St. Louis in 1886, he rose to fame in vaudeville and Broadway. He earned acclaim for his emotive singing style and dynamic performances. In 1927, he starred in The Jazz Singer, the first feature-length film with synchronized dialogue. His role in cinema ushered in the age of sound for Hollywood productions. He influenced generations of performers until his death in 1950.

Born Pál Lukács in Budapest in 1895, he began his acting career on the European stage. He moved to the United States in 1937 and quickly established himself in Hollywood films. In 1943, he won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in Watch on the Rhine. Lukas portrayed dignified characters with depth and nuance across a career spanning decades. He continued to appear in film and television until his death in 1971, leaving a legacy of distinguished performances.

Karin Juel rose to fame in the 1920s with her expressive vocal performances and stage presence. She recorded numerous hit songs that resonated across Sweden and Europe. As an actress, she appeared in both theatrical productions and films, showcasing her versatility. Juel also authored several books, including memoirs and novels that provided insight into her artistic journey. Her career spanned several decades, and she became a beloved cultural icon. Even after retiring, her legacy endured through reissued recordings and literary studies.

Born in 1904 in the United Kingdom, George Formby became a household name in the 1930s with his lively ukulele songs and humorous lyrics. He topped the charts with hits like 'When I'm Cleaning Windows' and 'Leaning on a Lamp Post.' Formby's charm extended to the silver screen, where he starred in popular films that showcased his musical talents. During World War II, he entertained British troops, boosting morale both at home and abroad. His unique blend of music and comedy influenced generations of performers. Formby's legacy endures through archival recordings and classic British comedy history.

Born Marion Morrison in 1907 in Iowa, John Wayne rose to fame in the 1939 Western 'Stagecoach.' He embodied the rugged American hero in classics such as 'The Searchers,' 'True Grit,' and 'Rio Bravo.' Wayne won an Academy Award for Best Actor for 'True Grit' in 1969. Beyond acting, he produced and directed several films, cementing his influence in Hollywood. During World War II, he became a symbol of patriotism, despite not serving in the military. His career spanned over five decades and left an indelible mark on American cinema. Wayne's legacy endures through his iconic roles and contributions to filmmaking.

Born in 1908 in England, Robert Morley trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. He gained acclaim for his roles in films such as 'Marie Antoinette,' 'The African Queen,' and 'Oscar Wilde.' Morley also enjoyed success on the West End and Broadway, where his sharp wit and comedic timing shone. He appeared frequently on radio and television, earning a reputation for aristocratic and humorous portrayals. Morley authored several memoirs recounting his experiences in theatre and film. His career spanned more than five decades, influencing generations of actors. He passed away in 1992, leaving behind a rich body of work.

Maurice Baquet was born on May 26, 1911 in Paris, France. He studied cello at the Paris Conservatory, performing as a soloist and chamber musician. In the 1930s, he transitioned into acting, appearing in French stage productions before making his film debut. Over his career, he featured in over 50 films and television series, often combining his musical talent with his performances. His dual career earned him recognition in both the performing arts and classical music communities. He continued to play cello and act until his passing in 2005.

Jay Silverheels was born on May 26, 1912 on the Six Nations reserve in Ontario, Canada. A talented athlete, he excelled in lacrosse before turning to acting. He gained fame portraying Tonto, the loyal companion of the Lone Ranger, on the hit TV series from 1949 to 1957. As one of the first Indigenous actors in Hollywood, Silverheels broke barriers and became a cultural icon. He later wrote poetry and advocated for Native American rights. His performance left a lasting impact on representation in entertainment before his death in 1980.

Sir Peter Cushing was born on May 26, 1913 in Kenley, Surrey, England. He trained at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and gained acclaim for his portrayals of Baron Frankenstein and Dr. Van Helsing in Hammer Horror productions. In 1977, he reached global fame as Grand Moff Tarkin in 'Star Wars', bringing gravitas to the character of the Empire's governor. Over a career spanning six decades, Cushing appeared in over 100 films and numerous television series. Knighted in 1994, he is remembered for his precise performances and contributions to genre cinema until his death later that year.

Karin Ekelund was born on May 26, 1913 in Stockholm, Sweden. She studied at the Royal Dramatic Training Academy and made her screen debut in the early 1930s. Ekelund became one of Sweden's most popular film stars, starring in dramas and comedies such as 'Swedenhielms' and 'The Girls of Uppakra'. She later transitioned to television and theater, showcasing her versatility as a performer. Ekelund received critical acclaim for her nuanced portrayals of strong female characters before retiring due to health issues. She passed away in 1976, remembered as a pioneer of Swedish film.

Frankie Manning was an American dancer and choreographer celebrated as one of the founding figures of the Lindy Hop. He began his career at the Savoy Ballroom in Harlem as a member of Whitey's Lindy Hoppers. Manning choreographed numbers for Broadway musicals such as Hellzapoppin'. During the swing dance revival of the 1980s, he experienced a global career resurgence. In 2000, he received a National Heritage Fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts. In his later years, he traveled the world teaching Lindy Hop and inspiring new generations of dancers.