June 30

Bruno Kastner (1890-1932) was one of Germany's leading actors of the silent film era, appearing in over 60 productions. He founded his own film company and expanded his talents to producing and screenwriting. Known for his charismatic screen presence, Kastner became a heartthrob of 1920s cinema in Berlin and beyond. Despite his early success, the advent of sound films challenged his career and artistic style. He played a pivotal role in shaping narrative techniques in German silent cinema and collaborated with many prominent directors of his day. Kastner's sudden death in 1932 cut short a dynamic and influential career in European film.

Thorleif Lund was born in Tønsberg in 1880 and became a prominent figure in Norwegian theater. He appeared in numerous silent films during the 1910s, collaborating with leading Scandinavian directors. Lund's expressive acting style helped bridge stage traditions with emerging cinematic techniques. He later returned to the stage, where he continued to perform in plays across Norway. His contributions helped shape Norway's performing arts during the early 20th century.

Gale Gordon's career spanned radio, film, and television over six decades. He gained fame as the blustery Mr. Wilson in the radio sitcom My Favorite Husband alongside Lucille Ball. He later portrayed the harried boss Mel Cooley on The Lucy Show and The Dick Van Dyke Show. His crisp comedic timing and distinctive voice made him a beloved television presence. Gordon appeared in over 100 TV episodes and several feature films. He continued acting until shortly before his death in 1995.

Buddy Hackett began his career as a stand-up comic in New York City nightclubs. He gained fame for his fast-talking, streetwise comedy style. Hackett appeared in films like The Music Man and It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World. On television, he was a popular guest on variety shows and talk programs. His warm stage presence and improvisational wit endeared him to audiences. He continued performing stand-up and acting until his death in 2003.

Pina Bausch (1940-2009) was a transformative German choreographer and director who pioneered the genre of Tanztheater. As the artistic director of the Tanztheater Wuppertal for over four decades, she created innovative performances like 'Café Müller' and 'Kontakthof' that blended dance, speech, and theatrical elements. Bausch's work explored human emotions and social dynamics through repetitive gestures, evocative music, and striking stage designs. Her bold vision challenged conventions and influenced contemporary dance worldwide. She received numerous awards, including the Kyoto Prize, and her legacy continues to inspire choreographers and performers across the globe.

Harve Presnell (1933-2009) began his career as a Broadway baritone before transitioning to film and television. He earned a Tony nomination for his performance as Leadville Johnny in the musical 'The Unsinkable Molly Brown' and reprised the role in the 1964 film adaptation. Presnell appeared in a variety of films, including 'Fargo', 'Saving Private Ryan', and 'Flags of Our Fathers', showcasing his versatility across genres. On screen and stage, his commanding presence and rich vocals made him a memorable performer. Over a career spanning five decades, he also recorded albums and toured in musical productions, leaving a lasting impact on both theater and film.

Paul Mazursky (April 25, 1930 – June 30, 2014) was an American film director, screenwriter, actor, and producer. He made his feature debut with Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice (1969), earning critical acclaim for its frank exploration of relationships. Mazursky received four Academy Award nominations, including Best Screenplay for Harry and Tonto (1974) and An Unmarried Woman (1978). His films often blended comedy and drama, portraying characters navigating personal growth and social change. As an actor, he appeared in Woody Allen's Interiors (1978) and many of his own films, showcasing his versatility. He produced works such as Down and Out in Beverly Hills (1986) and continued writing screenplays into the 2000s. Mazursky's humanistic approach and kaleidoscopic storytelling left a lasting impression on American cinema.

Barry Norman (1933-2017) was a distinguished English film critic and television presenter whose relaxed style and insightful commentary made him a trusted voice in cinema. He hosted the BBC's flagship program 'Film...' from 1972 to 1998, reviewing hundreds of films and interviewing top directors. Before his television career, he wrote film criticism for The Observer and authored several books on cinema. Awarded an OBE in 1998 for services to film broadcasting, Norman continued writing columns and appearing on radio well into his later years. His contributions shaped British film criticism and inspired generations of movie enthusiasts.