American actress
American actress
Pioneering American actress of the silent film era.
Gladys Brockwell was an American stage and silent film actress active in the early 20th century.
She appeared in over 70 films, including notable titles like 'The Gasoline Buggy' and 'The Johnstown Flood'.
Brockwell transitioned successfully to talkies before her untimely death in an automobile accident in 1929.
Her emotive performances helped shape acting styles during cinema's formative years.
Brockwell's contributions are remembered by silent film enthusiasts and historians alike.
1929
Gladys Brockwell
American actress, singer, and dancer
American actress
singer
and dancer
American actress, singer, and dancer renowned as a top box-office star and wartime pin-up icon.
Betty Grable was born in 1916 in St. Louis, Missouri, and raised in California.
She became one of Hollywood's biggest stars in the 1940s through her musicals and comedies.
Her performances showcased her singing, dancing, and charismatic screen presence.
Grable's iconic pin-up image became a symbol of morale for American troops during World War II.
At the height of her fame, she was the highest-paid female box-office star in Hollywood.
She continued to perform on stage and television until her death from lung cancer in 1973.
Grable's legacy endures as an emblem of classic American glamour.
1973
Betty Grable
English actor
English actor
James Robertson Justice was an English character actor famous for his booming voice and memorable roles in the 'Doctor' film series.
James Robertson Justice (May 15, 1907 – July 2, 1975) was a prominent English actor known for his imposing presence and distinctive baritone voice.
He gained fame portraying Sir Lancelot Spratt in the popular 'Doctor' comedy films of the 1950s and 1960s.
Prior to acting, he had varied careers including rally driving and publishing, reflecting his adventurous spirit.
Justice was also known for his love of animals and philanthropy, helping to establish animal welfare charities.
His larger-than-life personality made him a beloved figure in British cinema until his death in 1975.
1975
James Robertson Justice
American actress
American actress
Lee Remick was an American actress acclaimed for her sensitive portrayals in films like 'Anatomy of a Murder' and 'Days of Wine and Roses'.
Lee Remick (December 14, 1935 – July 2, 1991) was an award-winning American actress who achieved fame on stage, film, and television.
She earned an Academy Award nomination for her role as Laura Manion in 'Anatomy of a Murder' (1959), showcasing her dramatic range.
Remick won a Golden Globe for 'Days of Wine and Roses' (1962), capturing the struggles of alcoholism with depth and empathy.
Her career spanned collaborations with directors like John Frankenheimer and Sidney Lumet, highlighting her versatility.
Beyond film, she delivered acclaimed performances on Broadway and in television miniseries, leaving a lasting impact on the craft of acting.
1991
Lee Remick
American actor
American actor
American actor and author best known for his portrayal of Herman Munster on the sitcom The Munsters.
Fred Gwynne was born in 1926 in New York City and studied literature at Harvard University before embarking on his acting career. He gained widespread fame in the 1960s for his role as the lovable Herman Munster on the hit sitcom The Munsters. Gwynne displayed versatility with performances in films such as On the Waterfront and the television series Car 54, Where Are You?. Beyond acting, he became a bestselling author and illustrator of children's books, including The King Who Rained. His deep voice and towering presence made him a memorable presence on stage and screen. Gwynne continued to work in both acting and writing until his death in 1993. His legacy endures through the enduring popularity of his iconic television role and his contributions to children's literature.
1993
Fred Gwynne
American actor
American actor
Iconic American actor known for his distinctive drawl and memorable performances in films such as It's a Wonderful Life and Mr. Smith Goes to Washington.
James Stewart was born in 1908 in Indiana, Pennsylvania, and pursued acting at Princeton University before launching a career in Hollywood. He earned an Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in The Philadelphia Story and became one of the most bankable stars of his era. Stewart is celebrated for collaborations with directors Frank Capra and Alfred Hitchcock, including films like Mr. Smith Goes to Washington and Rear Window. His everyman persona and warm voice endeared him to audiences worldwide. During World War II, he served as a bomber pilot in the U.S. Army Air Forces and rose to the rank of Brigadier General in the Air Force Reserve. After the war, he continued to act in acclaimed films and on Broadway, winning several awards throughout his career. Stewart remained active in public service and charity work until his death in 1997, leaving a legacy as one of cinema's greatest actors.
1997
James Stewart
American actor, composer, and producer, co-founded Filmation Studios
American actor
composer
and producer
co-founded Filmation Studios
American actor, composer, and producer who co-founded the influential Filmation Studios.
Norman Theodore Prescott was born in 1927 and initially worked as a composer for television programs.\nIn 1959, he co-founded Filmation Studios, where he produced and composed music for popular animated series.\nUnder his leadership, Filmation released iconic shows such as 'Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids', 'He-Man and the Masters of the Universe', and 'She-Ra: Princess of Power'.\nHe was known for championing original story-driven animation and overseeing every aspect of production, from writing to music.\nPrescott's vision helped shape the landscape of Saturday morning cartoons in the 1960s and 1970s.\nHe passed away on July 2, 2005, leaving a legacy that continues to influence animators and producers today.
Norm Prescott
Filmation Studios
American comedian, actor, and game show host
American comedian
actor
and game show host
American comedian and actor celebrated for his quick wit as a television game show host.
Jan Murray began his career in the 1940s as a stand-up comedian in nightclubs across the United States.\nHe transitioned to television in the 1950s, appearing in variety shows and comedy specials.\nMurray became a familiar face on game shows, serving as host and panelist, and bringing his quick wit to millions of viewers.\nHe also acted in films and on Broadway, demonstrating his versatility as a performer.\nIn recognition of his contributions, he received a Lifetime Achievement Emmy Award.\nHe died on July 2, 2006, at the age of 89, leaving a lasting legacy in comedy and television.
2006
Jan Murray
Russian-American singer, keyboard player, and actress
Russian-American singer
keyboard player
and actress
Russian-American singer, keyboardist, and actress best known as a founding member of the rock band Eleven.
Natasha Shneider began her career as a keyboardist in the Soviet rock scene before moving to the United States.\nAlongside musician Alain Johannes, she co-founded the alternative rock band Eleven, releasing critically acclaimed albums in the 1990s.\nShneider contributed vocals and keyboards to projects by Queens of the Stone Age and other artists, earning recognition in the rock community.\nShe also appeared on screen in films such as David Lynch's 'Lost Highway', showcasing her acting talent.\nHer soulful performances and eclectic collaborations left a lasting impression on music and film.\nShneider died on July 2, 2008, remembered for her creative spirit and artistic versatility.
2008
Natasha Shneider
English actress and screenwriter
English actress and screenwriter
English character actress and screenwriter celebrated for her rich stage presence and memorable film roles.
Elizabeth Spriggs began her acting career with the Royal Shakespeare Company, winning acclaim for her commanding stage performances.\nShe appeared in film and television roles including 'Sense and Sensibility' and 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone', delighting audiences with her versatility.\nSpriggs also wrote scripts for radio and television dramas, showcasing her talent as a screenwriter.\nHer work spanned classical theater, contemporary drama, and blockbuster films, marking her as a dynamic performer.\nShe received multiple award nominations for her contributions to British arts.\nSpriggs passed away on July 2, 2008, leaving behind a legacy of unforgettable characters.
Elizabeth Spriggs
French actor and screenwriter
French actor and screenwriter
French stage and screen actor and screenwriter celebrated for his versatile performances in theater and film.
Maurice Chevit studied dramatic arts in Paris before launching a career on stage and screen.\nHe appeared in numerous French films and television series, demonstrating his versatility in both comedic and dramatic roles.\nChevit was a regular performer in theaters across France, collaborating with renowned directors and ensembles.\nAs a screenwriter, he adapted several works for television, contributing original scripts to the medium.\nHis dedication to his craft earned him respect among peers and audiences alike.\nHe died on July 2, 2012, remembered for his enduring presence in French performing arts.
2012
Maurice Chevit
English actress and comedian
English actress and comedian
English actress, comedian, and writer celebrated for her work on 'The Fast Show' and 'The Mrs Merton Show'.
Caroline Aherne was born in 1963 in Manchester and rose to fame as a writer and performer on the BBC sketch series 'The Fast Show.' She created and starred in 'The Mrs Merton Show,' playing the deceptively sweet but incisive host, which earned her widespread acclaim. Later, she co-created and co-wrote the beloved sitcom 'The Royle Family,' showcasing her talent for blending humor and realism. Aherne won multiple awards for her writing and performance, including BAFTAs. She was admired for her sharp wit, unique comedic voice, and ability to capture everyday life. Aherne's work continues to influence comedians and writers to this day.
2016
Caroline Aherne