June 21

Judy Holliday was born Judy Tuvim in 1921 in Queens, New York and rose to fame on Broadway for her comedic talent. She won the Tony Award for Best Actress portraying Billie Dawn in 'Born Yesterday' before reprising the role in the 1950 film, earning an Academy Award for Best Actress. Known for her distinctive voice and impeccable timing, she also starred in classics like 'Adam’s Rib' and 'Phffft'. Despite intense scrutiny during the McCarthy era, Holliday remained a beloved figure in Hollywood. She continued performing on stage and television until her death from breast cancer in 1965 at age 43.

Jane Russell was born in 1921 in Bemidji, Minnesota and gained fame in Howard Hughes’s film 'The Outlaw' (1943). She became a Hollywood icon, starring alongside legends like Marilyn Monroe in 'Gentlemen Prefer Blondes'. Russell’s sultry presence and versatile performances made her one of the top box-office draws of the 1940s and 1950s. Beyond acting, she co-founded the Hollywood Christian Group and later became a successful entrepreneur with medical device ventures. Her legacy spans film history and philanthropic work. She passed away in 2011 at the age of 89.

William Edwin Self was born in 1921 in Beaumont, Texas and began his career as a child actor in Hollywood films such as 'Tower of London'. In the 1950s, he transitioned to behind-the-scenes roles, joining CBS Productions and later becoming president of 20th Century Fox Television. He oversaw hit series including 'Bewitched' and 'The Twilight Zone', earning a reputation for innovative programming. Self was known for his talent development and executives’ insights during television’s golden age. He retired in 1986 and left behind a distinguished legacy in both acting and television production. He passed away in 2010 at age 89.

Trained in theater, Entezami made his film debut in the 1950s and quickly became a leading figure in Iranian cinema. His breakthrough role as the villager in 'The Cow' (1969) earned international praise and remains influential in the Iranian New Wave movement. Over a career spanning six decades, he appeared in more than 70 films and television productions. He worked extensively in theater, bringing depth and nuance to classic and contemporary plays. Honored with multiple awards for acting and lifetime achievement, Entezami’s craft inspired generations of performers.

Stapleton made her Broadway debut in 1954 and quickly earned a reputation for versatility and emotional depth. She won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in Woody Allen’s 'Reds' (1981) among multiple Oscar nominations. Her film credits include 'Airport '77', 'Interiors', and 'Back Street', showcasing a wide range of dramatic roles. On stage, she received two Tony Awards and a Drama Desk Award for performances in 'The Rose Tattoo' and 'Travesties'. Stapleton’s career spanned theater, film, and television, leaving a lasting impact on American acting until her passing in 2006.

Born in Rio de Janeiro and raised in Italy, Fiorella Mari brought a unique multicultural presence to film and stage productions in the post-war era. She made her screen debut in the early 1950s and quickly became known for her emotive performances and striking presence. Mari starred in a range of Italian melodramas, comedies, and art films, often portraying complex female protagonists. In addition to her film work, she performed on theater stages across Italy, earning acclaim for her versatility and depth. Her career bridged South American warmth and European sophistication, making her a memorable figure in mid-20th-century performing arts.

Margit Bara was a prominent Hungarian actress whose career peaked during the 1950s and 1960s. Graduating from the Hungarian Academy of Drama and Film in Budapest, she gained recognition for her naturalistic acting style. Bara appeared in landmark films such as Miklós Jancsó’s The Round-Up, showcasing her ability to convey complex emotions. Alongside her film work, she was a celebrated stage performer at the National Theatre of Hungary. After stepping back from acting following the political upheavals of 1956, she continued to influence the arts through teaching and mentorship. Bara’s legacy endures in the region’s cinematic history.

Born in 1933, Bernie Kopell studied drama before launching a career in television and film. He gained recognition as Agent Siegfried on the classic comedy series Get Smart. Kopell became a household name portraying Dr. Adam "Doc" Bricker on The Love Boat for over a decade. His comedic timing and distinctive presence made him a memorable character actor. Beyond TV, he appeared in numerous movies, commercials, and stage productions. Kopell's enduring charm and versatility have endeared him to audiences worldwide.

Mariette Hartley began her career in the 1960s, appearing in both television series and feature films. She earned critical acclaim and won a Primetime Emmy Award for her guest appearance on the legal drama 'The Law'. Hartley became a cultural icon after starring in a popular television commercial series in the 1970s. Over her career, she appeared in roles ranging from drama to comedy, showcasing her versatility. Beyond acting, she has been an advocate for mental health awareness following her own experiences. Her warm presence and dedication have made her a beloved figure in American television history.

Joe Flaherty rose to fame as a founding member of the sketch comedy show SCTV, where he created iconic characters such as Count Floyd and Guy Caballero. He also appeared in films like 'Stripes' and 'Happy Gilmore', showcasing his versatile comedic talent. As a producer and screenwriter, he contributed to a variety of television and film projects over his five-decade career. Flaherty's inventive humor and memorable performances earned him a dedicated fan base. He was honored for his contributions to comedy throughout his life. His passing in 2024 marked the end of an era in sketch comedy.

Lyman Ward began his acting career in theater before transitioning to film and television. He garnered widespread recognition for portraying the determined yet comedic Principal Ed Rooney in the 1986 film 'Ferris Bueller's Day Off'. Over the years, he has appeared in numerous TV shows and movies across various genres. Ward has also worked as a drama instructor, sharing his expertise with aspiring actors. His blend of humor and sincerity has made him a memorable presence on screen. Ward continues to engage audiences with both his performances and teaching.

Tony Scott was an English-American film director and producer celebrated for his dynamic visual style. He directed box-office hits such as 'Top Gun', 'True Romance', and 'Man on Fire'. Scott collaborated frequently with actor Tom Cruise and brought a kinetic energy to his storytelling. He was the younger brother of director Ridley Scott and carved out his own distinctive career. Scott's films are noted for their fast-paced editing, bold color palettes, and emotional intensity. He passed away in 2012, but his work continues to influence action cinema.