July 06

Born on July 6, 1887, in Sydney, Australia, Annette Kellermann overcame childhood rickets through rigorous swimming training and became a world champion in aquatic performances. She introduced water ballet to vaudeville stages and starred in the 1916 silent film “A Daughter of the Gods,” becoming one of cinema’s first mermaid stars. Kellermann’s advocacy for a one-piece bathing suit challenged restrictive Victorian-era attire and sparked worldwide swimwear reform. She toured extensively, performing diving acts and synchronized swimming exhibitions that captivated audiences. Kellermann authored books on physical fitness and wrote articles promoting health and exercise for women. Her innovations laid the groundwork for competitive synchronized swimming and modern swimwear design. Inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame, she remains an icon of women's athletic empowerment. Kellermann passed away in 1975, leaving a legacy of strength, grace, and pioneering spirit in aquatic sports.

Born Doris June Strain in 1911, she adopted the stage name June Gale and began her career in vaudeville acts. She transitioned to Hollywood, appearing in musicals and comedies that highlighted her singing and dancing talents. Gale also performed on Broadway and in radio broadcasts, showcasing her versatility as a performer. Throughout her career, she captivated audiences with her charismatic presence and comedic timing. She retired from acting in the late 1940s but remained active in charitable and theatrical circles until her death in 1996.

Sebastian Cabot was born in 1918 in London and began his career on the Shakespearean stage. He later transitioned to film and television, appearing in classics like 'The Adventures of Robin Hood'. Cabot’s rich, resonant voice made him a sought-after narrator and voice actor in documentaries. From 1966 to 1971, he portrayed Mr. French, the beloved butler on the sitcom 'Family Affair'. His warm presence and distinctive diction endeared him to audiences across generations. Cabot continued acting on screen and stage until his death in 1977, leaving a legacy of versatile performances.

Francisco Moncion was born in 1918 in New York City to Dominican immigrant parents. He trained at the School of American Ballet under George Balanchine and Lincoln Kirstein. In 1948, Moncion became a charter member of the New York City Ballet, premiering roles in Balanchine’s works. His performances in ballets like 'Symphony in C' showcased his technical precision and lyrical artistry. Moncion also choreographed original pieces and taught ballet, influencing future generations of dancers. He continued performing and instructing until his death in 1995, leaving a lasting imprint on American ballet.

Billy Mauch was born in 1921 and began performing on Broadway before transitioning to Hollywood films. Alongside his twin brother Bobby, he starred in several family dramas during the 1930s and 1940s, most notably The Prince and the Pauper. After leaving acting, he pursued a career behind the scenes as a production assistant and sound engineer. Mauch's early performances contributed to the golden age of Hollywood, and his collaboration with his brother remains a charming chapter in cinema history. He passed away in 2006, remembered for his work both in front of and behind the camera.

Bobby Mauch was born in 1921 and shared the stage and screen with his twin brother Billy throughout his childhood. The Mauch twins gained fame for their performances in films such as The Prince and the Pauper in the late 1930s. After his acting career, Bobby transitioned to work in film production and publicity, leveraging his Hollywood experience in new roles behind the scenes. His contributions to early cinema as part of a twin duo left a memorable mark on audiences. He passed away in 2007, celebrated for his versatility and lifelong dedication to the film industry.

Nancy Reagan was born in 1921 and began her acting career under the name Nancy Davis, appearing in films such as The Next Voice You Hear... She married Ronald Reagan in 1952 and became First Lady in 1981, championing the 'Just Say No' anti-drug campaign and supporting historic preservation efforts across the nation. After leaving the White House in 1989, she continued her advocacy by raising awareness and funding for Alzheimer's research. Known for her elegance and influence, she remained a prominent public figure until her death in 2016. Her legacy endures through her cultural and philanthropic contributions.

William Schallert was born in 1922 and built a prolific career across stage, film, and television. He appeared in more than 200 productions, including memorable roles on The Patty Duke Show and The Twilight Zone. Schallert served as president of the Screen Actors Guild from 1979 to 1981, championing fair contracts and actors' rights. His advocacy helped shape the industry's labor landscape and protect performers during a time of significant change. He passed away in 2016, leaving behind a legacy as both a versatile actor and an influential guild leader.

Ruth Cracknell (6 July 1925 – 13 May 2002) was a celebrated Australian actress whose career spanned radio, stage, film, and television. She began her journey performing in radio dramas in the 1940s before becoming a fixture in theatre productions. Cracknell gained widespread recognition for her portrayal of Maggie Beare in the television sitcom Mother and Son, earning critical acclaim and several awards. Her comic timing, warmth, and depth endeared her to audiences across Australia. Over five decades, she accumulated a diverse body of work that influenced generations of actors and comedians. Cracknell was honored with numerous accolades for her contributions to the arts, cementing her legacy as an icon of Australian entertainment.

Merv Griffin (6 July 1925 – 12 August 2007) was an American entertainer, television host, and media entrepreneur. He began his career as a singer and bandleader before hosting a popular talk show in the 1960s. Griffin went on to create two of the most iconic game shows in television history: Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune. His innovative approach to entertainment programming earned him a reputation as a visionary in the industry. Over decades, he also produced numerous television specials, musicals, and Broadway shows. Griffin’s contributions reshaped the format of American game shows and talk shows alike. He remained active in media and philanthropy until his death. His legacy continues to influence television production worldwide.

Janet Leigh (6 July 1927 – 3 October 2004) was an American actress and author who captivated audiences with her versatility and charm. She made her film debut in the late 1940s and quickly gained prominence in Hollywood. Leigh earned an Academy Award nomination for her role in Psycho (1960), where her portrayal of Marion Crane became one of cinema’s most enduring images. Throughout her career, she appeared in a variety of genres, including drama, comedy, and musicals, showcasing her range as a performer. In addition to acting, Leigh wrote two memoirs reflecting on her life in show business. She balanced her professional achievements with a commitment to her family, including her daughter, actress Jamie Lee Curtis. Leigh’s elegance, talent, and resilience have secured her status as a film legend.

Della Reese began her career as a jazz and gospel singer in the 1950s, recording hits such as “Don't You Know?” which reached the Billboard charts. Transitioning to acting, she made appearances in films, Broadway productions, and television shows, earning critical acclaim. From 1994 to 2003, Reese starred in the popular series Touched by an Angel, which brought her widespread recognition. Her dynamic performances and warm persona made her a trailblazer for African American women in entertainment. Later in life, she became an ordained minister and continued to inspire audiences until her passing in 2017.