June 04

Clara Blandick (1880–1962) was an American stage and screen actress who appeared in over 100 films. She began her career in theater before transitioning to silent films in the 1910s and sound pictures in the 1930s. Blandick gained fame for her role as Auntie Em in The Wizard of Oz (1939), which remains her most enduring performance. Her expressive face and warm presence made her a beloved character actress in Hollywood's Golden Age. Although she later faced personal struggles, her legacy endures through her memorable film work.

Rosalind Russell was a leading Hollywood actress whose career spanned four decades. She earned four Academy Award nominations for her performances in films such as "His Girl Friday" and "Auntie Mame". Known for her sophisticated wit and strong screen presence, she excelled in both musical comedies and dramas. On Broadway, she won acclaim for her role in the original production of "Wonderful Town". Russell became one of the highest-paid actresses of her era and remains an enduring icon of classic American cinema.

Nils Kihlberg gained fame for his performances in classic Swedish films and stage musicals during the 1940s and 1950s. Renowned for his versatile tenor voice, he appeared in hits such as "Swing it, magistern!" and the "Åsa-Nisse" comedies. Kihlberg also directed several features, showcasing his talent behind the camera. His contributions helped shape postwar Swedish popular culture, and his recordings remain cherished by fans of golden-age Scandinavian cinema.

Dennis Weaver rose to fame in the 1950s portraying Chester Goode, the loyal deputy on the hit western series Gunsmoke. He later starred as Marshal Sam McCloud in the television series McCloud and appeared in landmark films such as Duel and Play Misty for Me. Beyond acting, Weaver was a passionate environmentalist who built one of the first earth-sheltered homes and advocated for sustainable living. He founded a foundation to support conservation and community development projects. Weaver won an Emmy Award for his television performances and received multiple nominations throughout his career. His contributions to entertainment and environmental causes made him a respected public figure.

Judith Malina (1926–2015) was born in Germany and emigrated to the United States to escape the rise of Nazism. She co-founded The Living Theatre in 1947 with Julian Beck, one of the first experimental theatre companies in the US. Malina’s productions were known for their improvisational style and strong political messages challenging societal norms. Over her seven-decade career, she directed and performed in numerous groundbreaking works. She received international acclaim for her commitment to artistic freedom and social justice. Her influence remains profound in avant-garde and community-based theatre.

Geoffrey Palmer (1927–2020) began his acting career in the 1950s on stage and screen. He earned acclaim for his performances in television comedies like 'Butterflies' and the long-running series 'As Time Goes By'. Palmer’s subtle comedic timing and authoritative presence made him a beloved figure in British households. He appeared in over 100 roles across theatre, film, and TV, showcasing versatility in both drama and comedy. His contributions to acting were recognized with awards and lifetime achievement honors.

John Drew Barrymore (1932–2004) was a member of the legendary Barrymore acting dynasty, making his debut on the Broadway stage in the 1950s. He appeared in films such as 'High School Confidential' (1958) and made guest appearances on popular television series. Barrymore’s personal life was marked by notable challenges, but his on-screen charm and presence carried his performances. He fathered actress Drew Barrymore, continuing the family’s acting legacy. His contributions to stage and screen reflect the enduring impact of one of America’s most famous acting dynasties.

Colette Boky rose to prominence after winning international vocal competitions in the 1960s. She performed leading operatic roles at major houses including the Metropolitan Opera and Royal Opera House. Boky's bright, agile soprano was praised for its clarity, range, and expressive power. In addition to opera, she appeared in concert performances and recordings spanning classical repertoire. Boky also made appearances in film and television, showcasing her acting talent alongside her vocal artistry. She remains a respected figure for her contributions to the operatic and performing arts.

Bruce Dern has enjoyed a career spanning over six decades in film and television. He received Academy Award nominations for his performances in Coming Home and Nebraska. Dern is celebrated for portraying complex, often edgy characters with depth and nuance. His film credits include roles in Family Plot, The Cowboys, and Hitchcock’s Marnie. In addition to movies, he has appeared in acclaimed TV series and stage productions. Dern's enduring presence and dedication to his craft have made him a respected figure in acting.

Born in 1943, John 'Burgo' Burgess began his career as a radio announcer on stations such as 2SM and 2GB. He rose to national fame hosting the popular game show Sale of the Century from 1980 to 1991. Burgess has also appeared on reality television and continued to work in broadcasting for decades, becoming a familiar voice and face in Australian media.

Gabriel Arcand is a Canadian actor born in Quebec, best known for his roles in French-language films. He frequently collaborated with his brother, director Denys Arcand, appearing in acclaimed movies such as The Decline of the American Empire and Jesus of Montreal. Arcand has been nominated for multiple Genie Awards and won critical praise for his performances. His versatility spans drama and comedy, making him a prominent figure in Canadian and international film festivals. Outside of film, he has appeared in stage productions and television series, showcasing his wide-ranging talent.

David Yip was born on June 4, 1951 in Liverpool, England. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and began his career on stage before moving to television. He gained prominence as Detective Dai Chen in the BBC series The Chinese Detective, becoming one of the first East Asian actors to headline a British drama. He has appeared in films such as Yellow Face and Jump Tomorrow, and has written and performed several one-man shows exploring his Chinese heritage. Yip is also an accomplished playwright whose works have been staged across the UK. In addition to acting and writing, he is a vocal advocate for greater representation of Asian talent in the performing arts.