May 28

Antonio 'Tony' Pastor was a 19th-century American musician, vaudeville performer, and theater owner who revolutionized popular entertainment. He introduced family-friendly variety shows in New York City, combining music, comedy, and novelty acts. Pastor's New York Theatre became a template for vaudeville circuits that dominated American stages for decades. As a lyricist and performer, he fostered talents like Sophie Tucker and the Four Cohans. His innovations set the standard for mass entertainment and laid the groundwork for modern variety television.

Born in Baltimore in 1892 as Minna Marie Gombel, she began her career on the vaudeville stage before transitioning to film in the late 1920s. Over three decades, Gombell took on versatile supporting roles in dramas and comedies, working with major studios. She also performed on Broadway and in radio dramas, showcasing her range. Known for her distinctive presence and character work, she remained in demand through the 1950s. Gombell retired in the early 1960s and passed away in 1973, remembered for her steady contributions to American cinema.

Born in 1910, Rachel Kempson trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. She began her career on the British stage and later joined the Royal Shakespeare Company. Her film credits include roles in classic British dramas and comedies. Kempson was married to actor Sir Michael Redgrave and was the mother of Vanessa, Corin, and Lynn Redgrave. Her distinguished career earned her acclaim for her depth and warmth on screen and stage. She continued to act into her later years, leaving behind a legacy in British theatre and film. She died in 2003, remembered as a beloved figure in performing arts.

Born in 1911 in Morecambe, Lancashire, Thora Hird began performing in music halls as a child. She rose to fame in radio comedies and went on to enjoy a distinguished career on stage and screen. Hird won two BAFTA Awards for her dramatic performances and was appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire. She starred in popular television series such as 'Last of the Summer Wine' and films including 'A Cream Cracker Under the Settee'. Known for her warmth, wit, and versatility, she became a beloved national figure. She continued acting into her eighties, leaving a rich legacy in British entertainment. Hird passed away in 2003, remembered as a trailblazing comic talent.

Johnny Wayne (1918–1990) was a Canadian comedian, writer, and actor best known as one half of the duo Wayne and Shuster. Alongside partner Frank Shuster, he performed sketches that became staples of CBC television. The pair were the first Canadian comedians to appear on The Ed Sullivan Show in the U.S. Wayne's sharp wit and timing helped shape the golden age of Canadian television comedy. He was appointed Officer of the Order of Canada in 1990 for his contributions to entertainment. His work remains influential in Canadian comedy culture.

N. T. Rama Rao was born in 1923 in Andhra Pradesh and rose to fame as one of Telugu cinema's most popular actors. He starred in hundreds of films, portraying mythological and historical heroes that endeared him to millions. In 1982, he founded the Telugu Desam Party to champion regional pride and social welfare. He became the 10th Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, implementing land reforms and populist welfare programs. NTR's charismatic leadership reshaped state politics and inspired a new wave of regional parties across India. He continued to influence cultural and political life until his death in 1996.

Paul Hébert was born in Quebec in 1924 and became a pivotal figure in Canadian theatre. He co-founded the Théâtre du Nouveau Monde in 1951, nurturing French-language stage productions. Hébert excelled in classical and contemporary roles, from Shakespeare to modern Quebec playwrights. He appeared in numerous films and television series, bringing depth to characters across genres. His contributions to the arts earned him the Order of Canada in 1976. Hébert continued to perform and mentor young actors until his death in 2017.

Sally Forrest was born in San Diego in 1928 and began her career as a nightclub dancer. She signed with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer in the 1940s and appeared in musicals and comedies. Forrest earned acclaim for her dramatic turn in film noir classics like Raw Deal and Cry of the City. Later, she worked with director Ida Lupino in independent dramas that showcased her versatility. Alongside her film work, she danced on stage and television, reflecting her strong dance background. Forrest remained active in the entertainment industry until her death in 2015.

Carroll Baker was born in 1931 in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, and rose to fame in the 1950s as one of Hollywood's promising young stars. She earned an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of the innocent yet seductive Baby Doll in 1956. Baker went on to appear in hits like How to Marry a Millionaire and The Carpetbaggers, showcasing her dramatic range. In the 1970s, she expanded into television and European cinema, including works by Italian directors. Known for her strong-willed characters, she later took on roles in cult horror and Western genres. Baker's enduring career spans stage, screen, and activism until the present day.

John Karlen was an American actor whose career spanned television, film, and theater. He gained fame as the cunning Willie Loomis on the gothic soap opera Dark Shadows. Karlen went on to win an Emmy Award for his performance as Harvey Lacey in the police drama Cagney & Lacey. Over six decades, he appeared in dozens of TV series and films, showcasing versatility in both dramatic and comedic roles. His work earned him a reputation as a dependable character actor until his passing in 2020.

Zelda Rubinstein was an American actress whose distinctive voice and small stature made her a memorable presence on screen. She rose to fame as Tangina Barrons in the Poltergeist film series, earning a cult following. Beyond acting, Rubinstein was a passionate activist for HIV/AIDS awareness and LGBT rights, serving on the board of amfAR. She leveraged her celebrity to raise funds and awareness during the height of the AIDS crisis in the 1980s. Rubinstein appeared in numerous television shows and films over a career that highlighted both her talent and her commitment to social causes.

Born in Boston, Massachusetts, Howland began her career on Broadway before transitioning to television and film. She gained widespread fame portraying Vera Louise Gorman on the hit series Alice from 1976 to 1985. Known for her bubbly persona and comic timing, she also appeared in movies such as Catch-22 and various musical productions. Her versatility as both a singer and actress made her a memorable presence in American entertainment. Howland passed away in Los Angeles in 2015, leaving behind a legacy of heartfelt performances.