May 29

Beatrice Lillie was a celebrated comic actress whose career spanned stage, film, and radio in the early to mid-20th century. Born in Canada and raised in England, she gained fame for her flawless timing, whimsical songs, and satirical sketches. Lillie collaborated with major entertainers of her era, delighting audiences on both sides of the Atlantic. She also wrote songs and sketches that showcased her playful humor and clever lyrics. Her enduring contributions to comedy have influenced generations of performers and solidified her reputation as a pioneering woman in entertainment.

Bob Hope was one of the most popular entertainers of the 20th century, with a career spanning vaudeville, Broadway, radio, movies, and television. Born in England and raised in the United States, he became famous for his rapid-fire one-liners, playful banter, and charismatic stage persona. Hope starred in over 70 films, hosted The Academy Awards a record 19 times, and produced numerous radio and TV shows. He was beloved for his dedication to performing live shows for American service members overseas, earning him the nickname 'Host with the Most'. His influence on comedy and entertainment endures, making him an icon of show business.

Sebastian Shaw began his career on the London stage, earning acclaim for his classical performances. He wrote and directed several theatre productions throughout the mid-20th century. Shaw appeared in numerous British films and television series, showcasing his versatility as an actor. His most widely recognized screen role came in 1983 when he portrayed the ghost of Anakin Skywalker in Return of the Jedi. He was also a respected acting coach and teacher, influencing generations of performers. Shaw's work extended to playwriting, where he explored complex human emotions and relationships. Throughout his career, he was celebrated for his rich voice, commanding presence, and dedication to the dramatic arts.

Stacy Keach Sr. began his acting career in the early 1930s, appearing in a variety of Hollywood films. He transitioned to television in the 1950s, guest-starring in popular series of the era. Keach was known for his versatile character roles, portraying everything from authority figures to colorful supporting characters. He maintained a stage presence, performing in regional theater productions across the United States. Keach's dedication to his craft influenced his son, actor Stacy Keach Jr., who went on to star in numerous films and television shows. Despite often playing minor roles, Stacy Keach Sr.'s performances were marked by professionalism and nuance. He retired from acting in the late 1960s, leaving behind a body of work that spans three decades.

Born in 1920, James launched his acting career on the stage before moving into film and television. He gained international recognition for his comic performance as Sheriff J.W. Pepper in Live and Let Die (1973) and The Man with the Golden Gun (1974). Over a career spanning five decades, he appeared in a wide variety of roles, showcasing his versatility in both drama and comedy. James worked with acclaimed directors and shared the screen with major stars, earning praise for his memorable supporting characters. He continued acting well into his later years, leaving behind a rich filmography that highlights his enduring talent. His warm screen presence and distinctive performances remain celebrated by fans of classic cinema.

Born in Sydney in 1921, Hetherington began his artistic career as a cartoonist for newspapers and magazines. In 1959, he introduced Mr. Squiggle on Australian television, enchanting audiences with his whimsical drawing antics. Combining puppetry and visual art, he crafted imaginative characters that became staples of children’s entertainment. Hetherington’s creativity and dedication sustained the Mr. Squiggle series for over four decades. Beyond television, he produced editorial cartoons and mentored emerging artists in Australia. His contributions to cartooning and puppetry left an indelible mark on the country’s cultural landscape.

Born in Trondheim in 1922, Roger trained in classical ballet before embracing modern dance techniques. She became a leading figure in Norway’s dance scene, founding her own company and creating innovative choreographies. Her works often blended traditional movements with experimental forms, pushing the boundaries of dance expression. Roger toured extensively across Europe, bringing Norwegian contemporary dance to international stages. As a teacher, she mentored generations of dancers and choreographers, shaping the country’s dance education. Her artistic legacy lives on through the dancers she inspired and the groundbreaking performances she created.

Born in 1926 in Florence, Italy, as Caterina Irene Elena Maria Imperiali di Francavilla, Katie Boyle began her career on the London stage after World War II. She became a household name as a television host, presenting shows like Face the Music and fronting the Eurovision Song Contest in 1960, 1963, 1968, and 1974. Boyle's elegance, charm, and multilingual fluency made her a beloved broadcaster across Europe. She also appeared in British films during the 1950s, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Boyle authored two memoirs reflecting on her life in show business. She died in 2018, remembered as a trailblazer for women on television.

Kevin Conway trained at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute before launching his acting career. He appeared in notable films such as Gettysburg, where he portrayed Confederate General Jubal Early, and Thirteen Days as Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson. On stage, Conway delivered powerful performances in Off-Broadway productions and acclaimed Broadway shows. He also directed theater productions and independent films, showcasing his versatility behind the scenes. His career spanned over five decades, earning him recognition among peers and audiences alike. Conway passed away in 2020, leaving behind a rich body of work.

Anthony Geary rose to fame for his role as Luke Spencer on General Hospital, a character he played for over four decades. His performance earned him eight Daytime Emmy Awards, a record for a drama series actor. Geary's portrayal of Spencer, particularly in the 'Ice Princess' storyline, became a cultural phenomenon in the 1980s. Beyond soap operas, he appeared in television films and made guest appearances on various TV series. Geary's influence on daytime television remains unparalleled in the genre.

Robert Axelrod enjoyed a varied career as a performer and writer, contributing to both live-action and animated projects. He provided voices for characters in popular series such as Daria, where he portrayed Jake Morgendorffer. Axelrod also wrote scripts for television shows and wrote for series aimed at young audiences. His work spanned decades, encompassing both on-screen performances and behind-the-scenes creative roles. He remained active in the entertainment industry until his passing in 2019.

Maureen Reillette 'Rebbie' Jackson is an American singer and actress born in 1950. She rose to fame as a member of the Jackson family and released her debut album, Centipede, in 1984, featuring the title track produced by her brother Michael Jackson. Jackson's rich contralto voice and heartfelt performances earned her recognition in the R&B music scene. In addition to her music career, she made television appearances and devoted time to philanthropy and family. By embracing her musical heritage while forging her own path, Rebbie has maintained a lasting legacy among musical families. She continues to engage with fans through performances and public events.