June 11

Born in Jessore in 1900, Chhabi Biswas rose to prominence in Bengali theater before making a successful transition to film. He is best remembered for collaborating with Satyajit Ray, notably portraying the aristocratic father in 'Pather Panchali' and 'Aparajito.' Biswas's commanding presence and nuanced acting style earned him critical acclaim. Over his career, he appeared in more than 200 films, often playing patriarchal figures with depth and complexity. His work helped define the golden age of Bengali cinema in the mid-20th century. Biswas died suddenly of heart failure on a film set in 1962, leaving behind a rich legacy of memorable performances.

Born Marion Robert Morrison in 1907, John Wayne became one of Hollywood's most enduring stars over a career spanning five decades. He gained fame with John Ford's Stagecoach (1939) and went on to headline classics such as The Searchers, Rio Bravo, and The Quiet Man. Wayne earned the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in True Grit (1969). He also directed and produced films like The Alamo, shaping his iconic on-screen persona of rugged individualism. Beyond his film career, Wayne was a cultural symbol of American values until his death in 1979.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1952, Ray Sharkey developed an early passion for acting and studied at the Lee Strasberg Theatre Institute. He gained critical acclaim and a Golden Globe nomination for his role as singer Tommy Dee in the 1980 film "The Idolmaker". Sharkey appeared in numerous television series, including "Miami Vice" and "Wiseguy," as well as stage productions. Despite professional success, he struggled with substance abuse, which impacted his personal life and career. He died on June 11, 1993, from complications related to AIDS, remembered for his intense performances and contributions to film and television.

Born in 1953 in Manila, Rodel Naval began his career as a singer-songwriter, writing and performing original compositions. He gained recognition for his emotive voice and heartfelt ballads, including the hit song "Lobo". Naval also pursued acting, appearing in Philippine films and stage productions that showcased his versatility. In the 1980s, he moved to New York City, where he continued to perform and became a prominent figure in the Filipino expatriate arts scene. Naval died on June 11, 1995, from complications related to AIDS, and is remembered for his artistic contributions and advocacy in the Filipino community.

Born in Berlin in 1908, Brigitte Helm trained as a dancer before making her film debut at age 19. She rose to international fame for her roles as Maria and her android double in Fritz Lang's 1927 masterpiece "Metropolis". Helm appeared in both silent and early sound films throughout the late 1920s and early 1930s, showcasing her versatility. Disillusioned by the rise of the Nazi regime and the changing film industry, she retired from acting in 1935. She lived a private life thereafter in Switzerland and Germany, avoiding the spotlight until her death on June 11, 1996. Her performance in "Metropolis" remains a landmark in cinematic history.

Born in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1920, DeForest Kelley began his career in bit roles in radio and film westerns. In 1966, he was cast as Dr. Leonard McCoy on Gene Roddenberry's "Star Trek," delivering the memorable line "I'm a doctor, not a..." countless times. Kelley's portrayal of McCoy's gruff compassion and dry wit endeared him to audiences and became a franchise cornerstone. He reprised the role in six "Star Trek" films, deepening the character's backstory and relationships. Outside of "Star Trek," Kelley appeared in various television shows and advocated for the series' legacy among fans. He died on June 11, 1999, and is remembered as one of science fiction's most beloved doctors.

Born in 1923 in Huetamo, Michoacán, Amalia Mendoza earned the nickname "La Tariácuri" early in her career for her deep, emotive voice. She became one of Mexico's leading ranchera singers in the 1940s and 1950s, recording classics like "Traigo un amor". Mendoza also starred in a series of Mexican films, showcasing her musical talent and screen presence. Her collaborations with renowned mariachi ensembles brought authentic regional sounds to a national audience. Her career spanned several decades, influencing generations of female ranchera artists. She passed away on June 11, 2001, and is celebrated as a legend of Mexican music and cinema.

Mala Powers began her acting career as a teenager, earning acclaim for her performance in the 1951 film The Blue Veil. Born in 1931 in San Francisco, she made her Broadway debut before transitioning to Hollywood. Powers appeared in nearly 70 films and television episodes, portraying elegant and complex characters. She starred alongside leading actors of her time and was praised for her versatility. In later years, Powers taught acting and co-founded the Screen Actors Guild Education and Research Institute. She also wrote a memoir detailing her experiences in Hollywood. Powers's enduring performances and dedication to the craft left a legacy appreciated by both audiences and aspiring actors.

Ann Rutherford (1917–2012) was a Canadian-American actress who became a Hollywood staple during the Golden Age. She gained fame as Polly Benedict, Mickey Rooney's love interest, in the popular Andy Hardy film series. Rutherford also portrayed Carreen O'Hara, Scarlett's sister, in the 1939 classic Gone with the Wind. Her career spanned stage, film, and television, showcasing her versatility and enduring on-screen charm. She appeared alongside leading stars such as Clark Gable and Judy Garland in numerous Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer productions. After retiring from acting, she remained a beloved figure at fan conventions and retrospectives. She passed away in 2012 at the age of 94, remembered for her warmth and elegance on screen.

Ruby Dee was an acclaimed American actress and activist born in 1922. Her career spanned over six decades across stage, film, radio, and television, earning her multiple awards including an Emmy and a Grammy. She is best remembered for her work in 'A Raisin in the Sun' and films like 'American Gangster'. Alongside her husband Ossie Davis, she was a prominent voice in the civil rights movement, advocating for equality and social justice. Dee's powerful performances and unwavering commitment to activism made her a trailblazer for African American artists and a beloved cultural icon.

Ron Moody was an English actor and singer celebrated for his stage and screen roles. He achieved widespread acclaim as Fagin in the 1968 film Oliver!, which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. Born in London, he studied music and drama, performing in theatrical productions before moving into film and television. Throughout his career, Moody demonstrated a gift for character work, voice acting, and musical performance. His enduring popularity stems from his dynamic portrayals and contributions to British arts over seven decades.

Tony Lo Bianco was an American actor celebrated for his gritty, memorable performances. He garnered attention for his role as Salvatore 'Sal' Boca in the film The French Connection (1971). Lo Bianco also starred in Elvis (1979), dubbing his own singing voice and portraying Colonel Parker. On stage, he won acclaim for his one-man show LaGuardia, portraying former New York mayor Fiorello La Guardia. With a career spanning over five decades, he left an indelible mark on both screen and theater.