June 19

May Whitty (1865-1948) began her stage career in London’s West End and became known for her commanding presence and character roles. She transitioned to film in the silent era and later appeared in Hollywood productions. In 1942, Whitty earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Mrs. Miniver’s neighbor, Miss Baines. Throughout her career, she worked with renowned directors and actors, demonstrating versatility across drama and comedy. Whitty was also active during both World Wars, supporting entertainment efforts for troops. Her legacy endures through her memorable performances and her contributions to the development of early British and American cinema.

Born in Macon, Georgia in 1877, Charles Coburn began his career on the stage before transitioning to film in the 1930s. Renowned for portraying avuncular and aristocratic figures, he appeared in over 50 films during Hollywood's Golden Age. His performance in the 1943 comedy The More the Merrier earned him the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. Coburn's effortless charm and timing made him a sought-after supporting player in classics such as His Girl Friday and The Lady Eve. He continued acting into the 1950s, leaving behind a legacy of memorable character roles. He died in 1961 at the age of 84.

Born in 1897, Moses Harry Horwitz adopted the stage name Moe Howard and became a founding member of the Three Stooges. He gained fame for his bowl haircut and quick-tempered persona. The trio produced hundreds of short films spanning from the 1920s to the 1950s. Moe often delivered the famous catchphrases and orchestrated the team's physical comedy routines. Outside film, he appeared on television and stage. His work influenced generations of comedians. He passed away in 1975, but his legacy endures through classic Stooge shorts.

Mildred Natwick was born in 1905 in Baltimore and trained at the American Theatre Wing in New York. She debuted on Broadway in the 1920s and became a versatile presence in comedies, dramas, and experimental plays. Natwick transitioned to film and earned acclaim for roles in John Ford’s 'The Quiet Man' and Alfred Hitchcock’s 'The Trouble with Harry'. She received Emmy nominations for her work on television series such as 'Cimarron City'. Known for her warm voice and subtle humor, she appeared across stage, film, and TV over five decades. Natwick was one of the first women to be nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. She died in 1994, leaving a legacy of memorable performances.

Virginia MacWatters was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in 1912 and studied voice at the Curtis Institute of Music. She made her debut with the Chicago Opera Company before joining the Metropolitan Opera, where she sang roles in Mozart and Rossini operas. In addition to her operatic career, MacWatters appeared on Broadway and in radio musicals, showcasing her acting talents. She toured extensively across the United States and Europe, championing American opera. After retiring from performance, she taught voice until her death in 2005, leaving a legacy of artistic versatility.

Born in Addison, Alabama, Buttram began his career as a radio comedian before moving into film in the 1930s. He appeared as the loyal sidekick to singing cowboy Gene Autry in over 90 films and on television in "The Gene Autry Show." Buttram lent his unique voice to Disney classics, voicing the Sheriff of Nottingham in "Robin Hood" and Luke in "The Aristocats." His tall, thin figure and southern drawl made him one of the most recognizable character actors of his era. Buttram received an Emmy Award nomination for his work on Disney's anthology television series. He remained active in entertainment until his death in 1994.

Robert began his career on stage and in French cinema in the 1940s, appearing in films like "Le clan des Siciliens." He transitioned to directing with his debut feature in 1958 and found success with comedies such as "The Tall Blond Man with One Black Shoe" and its sequel. His adaptations of Marcel Pagnol's autobiographical novels, including "My Father's Glory" and "My Mother's Castle," earned critical acclaim. Robert's films were noted for their gentle humor, humanistic themes, and vivid portrayals of provincial life. He received several César Award nominations and remains a beloved figure in French film history.

Born in Marseille, Jourdan rose to fame for his portrayal of the charming playboy in the classic musical "Gigi" (1958). He starred in a variety of genres, from romantic dramas to thrillers, including his memorable role as a Bond villain in "Octopussy" (1983). Jourdan's elegant style and smooth French accent made him a sought-after leading man through the 1950s and 1960s. During World War II, he served in the French Army before embarking on an acting career in European cinema. His career spanned over six decades, earning him a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Jourdan retired to the south of France and remained an international film icon until his death in 2015.

Born in 1928 in Buffalo, New York, Nancy Marchand began her stage career in the 1940s. She won three Emmy Awards for her portrayal of Margaret Pynchon on the drama series 'Lou Grant.' Marchand earned further acclaim as Livia Soprano, the manipulative matriarch on 'The Sopranos.' Her nuanced performances brought depth to complex characters and earned her critical praise. She appeared in films like 'Dog Day Afternoon' and maintained a distinguished Broadway career. Marchand's legacy endures as one of television's most compelling character actresses.

Born in 1930 in Madison, Wisconsin, Gena Rowlands rose to prominence through her appearances in independent films directed by her husband, John Cassavetes. She delivered powerful performances in 'A Woman Under the Influence' and 'Gloria,' earning Academy Award nominations. Rowlands has also had a distinguished television and stage career, winning four Emmys. Her portrayals are celebrated for their emotional depth and authenticity. Over seven decades, she has become an icon of American cinema and inspiration for generations of actors.

Born in 1932 in Cagliari, Sardinia, Pier Angeli moved to Hollywood as a teenager and signed with MGM. She garnered critical praise for her debut in 'Teresa' and won a Golden Globe. Angeli appeared opposite Paul Newman in 'Somebody Up There Likes Me' and co-starred with stars like Rock Hudson and James Dean. Her beauty and talent made her a 1950s screen icon, but personal struggles affected her career. She returned to European cinema in the 1960s before her untimely death in 1971. Her legacy endures as one of the era's captivating leading ladies.

Born in 1932 in Cagliari, Sardinia, Marisa Pavan began her film career with a breakthrough performance in 'The Rose Tattoo' (1955). Playing the sister of Anna Magnani's character, she received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Pavan went on to star in films such as 'Diane' and 'The Man in the Gray Flannel Suit.' Her elegant presence and versatility made her a sought-after talent in Hollywood's golden era. In later years, she appeared in European productions and television series, showcasing her enduring career. Pavan's work reflects the post-war international exchange between Italian and American cinemas.