June 24

Jackie Gleason was an American comedian, actor, and musician, celebrated for his portrayal of Ralph Kramden in the iconic television series The Honeymooners. Born in Brooklyn in 1916, he began his career as a stand-up comic and moved into radio before achieving television fame. Gleason earned an Emmy Award for his work on The Honeymooners, which remains a foundational text in sitcom history. He demonstrated his dramatic range in the film The Hustler (1961), playing the legendary pool player Minnesota Fats. In addition to acting, Gleason was a talented pianist and bandleader, releasing his hit album Music for Lovers Only. His larger-than-life presence and inventive comedic style left a lasting mark on American entertainment.

Born Robert Alba Keith, Brian Keith gained fame for his portrayals of kindly father figures. He starred in the sitcom Family Affair and films such as The Parent Trap and The Russians Are Coming, the Russians Are Coming. Keith’s career spanned radio, film, and television over five decades, showcasing his versatility. He received a Golden Globe nomination and was admired for his natural screen presence. Beyond acting, Keith supported charitable causes and was a respected figure in Hollywood.

David Tomlinson began his career in British films and wartime entertainment for the RAF. He achieved international fame as George Banks in Disney’s Mary Poppins and appeared in Bedknobs and Broomsticks. Tomlinson’s gentle wit and refined manner made him a beloved character actor. Beyond acting, he served as a pilot in World War II and later lent his voice to animated features. His performances remain classics of family cinema, celebrated for their warmth and humor.

Born in New York in 1922, Paul Winchell began his career as a ventriloquist in vaudeville. He gained national fame with his characters Jerry Mahoney and Knucklehead Smiff. On television, he appeared on The Ed Sullivan Show and hosted his own series, The Paul Winchell Show. As a voice actor, he originated the voice of Tigger in Disney's Winnie the Pooh and Dick Dastardly in 'Wacky Races'. Beyond entertainment, he held patents for medical inventions including an early artificial heart design. His inventive spirit and charismatic performances inspired generations of puppeteers and voice artists. He retired in the 1990s and passed away in 2005, leaving a lasting legacy in both show business and science.

Born in 1915 in New York City, Wallach studied acting under the legendary Stella Adler.\nHe made his Broadway debut in 1947 before earning acclaim in film and television.\nWallach is best known for roles such as Tuco in The Good, the Bad and the Ugly and Calvera in The Magnificent Seven.\nOver his seven-decade career, he received a Tony Award, an Honorary Academy Award, and numerous other honors.\nHis versatility spanned genres from classic dramas to Westerns and comedies.\nWallach continued performing on stage and screen well into his 90s, inspiring generations of actors.