June 14

Robert Middleton was an American character actor celebrated for his deep baritone voice and commanding stature. He appeared in over 70 films and numerous television series from the 1940s through the 1970s. Middleton often portrayed villains and authority figures in movies such as 'The Greatest Show on Earth' and 'Billy Budd'. He also made guest appearances on popular TV shows like 'Gunsmoke' and 'Bonanza'. Born in 1911 in Cleveland, he began his acting career on Broadway before transitioning to Hollywood. His memorable performances left a mark on mid-20th century American cinema and television. Middleton died in 1977, leaving behind a legacy of versatile screen work.

Alan Reed was an American actor and voice artist celebrated for creating the iconic voice of Fred Flintstone in the animated series 'The Flintstones'. He began his career in radio drama and later appeared on Broadway and in films. Reed brought warmth and humor to his characters, making Fred Flintstone one of the most beloved figures in animation history. In addition to his voice work, he had roles in movies such as 'The Scar' and TV shows like 'The Untouchables'. Born Herbert Theodore Bergman, he adopted the stage name Alan Reed early in his career. His portrayal of Fred Flintstone set a standard for animated performances. He passed away in 1977, leaving a lasting impact on voice acting.

Stanisław Bareja was a Polish actor, director, and screenwriter celebrated for his sharp satire of everyday life under communism. His cult films, including 'Teddy Bear' (Miś) and 'What Will You Do When You Catch Me?', humorously critiqued bureaucratic absurdities and social norms. Bareja’s keen observational style and memorable characters resonated deeply with audiences navigating the challenges of the communist system. He acted in numerous productions while simultaneously writing and directing his own movies. Born in 1929, he became one of Poland’s most beloved filmmakers, often employing surreal humor and farcical situations. Despite censorship pressures, his work remained popular and influential. Bareja died in 1987, and his films continue to enjoy a devoted following in Poland.

Erna Berger was a German lyric soprano renowned for her crystal-clear tone and precise vocal technique. She enjoyed a distinguished career at the Berlin State Opera and performed internationally at prestigious venues such as Covent Garden and the Salzburg Festival. Berger excelled in roles by Mozart and Richard Strauss, including the Queen of the Night and Sophie in 'Der Rosenkavalier'. In addition to her operatic achievements, she appeared in a handful of films and made numerous acclaimed recordings. Born in 1900, she studied at the Leipzig Conservatory before embarking on her professional debut in 1924. Over her long career, she became one of the most recorded sopranos of her era. Berger passed away in 1990, leaving a rich legacy of performances and recordings.

Dame Peggy Ashcroft was an English actress whose career spanned over six decades on stage and screen. She was a founding member of the Royal Shakespeare Company and acclaimed for her interpretations of Shakespearean heroines. Ashcroft won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in 'A Passage to India' and received multiple BAFTA and Tony awards. She collaborated frequently with contemporaries such as Laurence Olivier and John Gielgud, earning respect for her emotional depth and versatility. In her later years, she took on character roles in films like 'The Land Girls' and 'Heat and Dust'. Born in 1907, she trained at the Central School of Speech and Drama before making her London debut in 1926. Ashcroft died in 1991, leaving behind a legacy as one of Britain’s greatest actresses.

Marcel Mouloudji was a versatile French artist whose career spanned singing, acting, and poetry. He rose to fame in post-war France with his heartfelt chansons that captured the spirit of the era. As an actor, he appeared in several films and theater productions, earning critical acclaim. Mouloudji also published collections of poetry reflecting his Algerian heritage and humanist themes. His artistic legacy endures through his recordings and writings that continue to inspire audiences.

Richard Jaeckel was a versatile American actor whose career spanned film, television, and theater. He gained fame for supporting roles in classics like 'The Dirty Dozen' and 'Sometimes a Great Notion.' Jaeckel received an Academy Award nomination for his performance in 'The Enemy Below.' Known for his rugged screen presence, he portrayed soldiers, lawmen, and ordinary men with depth and authenticity. His enduring career made him a familiar face in Hollywood from the 1940s through the 1990s.

Isabelle Collin Dufresne, known professionally as Ultra Violet, was a celebrated figure in the Pop Art movement. Born in France in 1935, she moved to New York City in 1960 and quickly became part of Salvador Dalí's inner circle. She starred in several of Dalí's films before joining Andy Warhol's Factory, where she appeared in multiple underground films. Dufresne embraced the name Ultra Violet and authored memoirs reflecting on her experiences with two art legends. Her work spanned visual art, writing, and performance, showcasing her versatility and creativity. She held exhibitions internationally and continued to create art until her passing in 2014. Her legacy endures through her contributions to art history and her vivid firsthand accounts of a transformative era.

Ann Morgan Guilbert was an American actress and singer born in 1928, who became a familiar face on mid-century television. She rose to prominence portraying Millie Helper, the wisecracking neighbor on 'The Dick Van Dyke Show.' In later years, she charmed audiences as Yetta Rosenberg, the endearing grandmother on 'The Nanny.' Guilbert showcased her musical talents in various variety shows and nightclubs throughout the 1950s and 1960s. Beyond television, she appeared on Broadway and in numerous films, demonstrating her versatility as a performer. Known for her warmth and comedic timing, she earned widespread affection in show business. Guilbert continued acting into her 80s and passed away in 2016, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances.

Sushant Singh Rajput was an Indian actor born in 1986 who gained fame for his diverse roles in Hindi cinema. He made his acting debut on television before transitioning to film with a critically acclaimed performance in 'Kai Po Che!' in 2013. Rajput portrayed complex characters in movies like 'MS Dhoni: The Untold Story,' earning praise for his emotional depth and authenticity. He was also noted for his scientific curiosity and passion for astrophysics, which inspired many fans. Beyond acting, he supported various philanthropic causes and encouraged young talent through workshops. His untimely death in 2020 at age 34 prompted widespread discussions on mental health in the entertainment industry. Rajput's body of work continues to resonate with audiences across India and beyond.