July 10

Renée Björling trained at the Royal Dramatic Theatre in Stockholm and debuted on stage in 1918. She appeared in silent films such as "Herr Arnes pengar" and transitioned successfully to talkies. Björling's versatile performances spanned drama, comedy, and literary adaptations. Throughout her career, she worked with renowned directors and influenced Swedish theater. In later years, she taught acting and mentored young performers at Stockholm's drama schools. Her contributions to Scandinavian arts earned her a lasting legacy in Nordic film history.

John Gilbert began his career as a stage actor before signing with Fox Studios in 1920. He became a matinee idol in silent classics like "The Merry Widow" and "Flesh and the Devil." Gilbert transitioned to directing and co-writing scripts for both silent and early sound films. His off-screen romance with Greta Garbo captured Hollywood's imagination but ended without marriage. Despite professional setbacks during the advent of talkies, his magnetic screen presence endured. Gilbert's sudden death at 37 marked the end of one of cinema's most promising talents.

Born Liliane Carré, Lili Damita was a glamorous French-American actress who captivated audiences in the silent and early sound eras. She appeared in films like "The Woman from Monte Carlo" and shared the screen with leading men such as Douglas Fairbanks Jr. In 1935 she married swashbuckling star Errol Flynn, later retiring from acting. Her elegance and on-screen presence made her a symbol of 1930s Hollywood sophistication.

Thomas Gomez made history as the first Hispanic actor nominated for an Academy Award, earning Best Supporting Actor for "Ride the Pink Horse" (1947). With a career spanning stage, film, and television, he appeared in classics like "Key Largo" and "The Lost Weekend." Known for his dignified presence and versatility, Gomez brought depth to every role he played, paving the way for future generations of Latino performers in Hollywood.

Terry-Thomas, born Thomas Terry Hoar Stevens in 1911, became one of Britain's most beloved comic actors. He began his career in radio and music hall before gaining fame in film and television. Known for his gap-toothed smile and flamboyant portrayal of caddish upper-class characters, he starred in classics like 'It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World' and 'Those Magnificent Men in Their Flying Machines.' His catchphrases and exaggerated mannerisms made him a staple of British comedy. In later years, he faced financial hardship due to Parkinson’s disease but remained admired by fans. Terry-Thomas passed away in 1990, but his character-style comedy continues to influence comedians worldwide.

Don Herbert was born in 1917 and began his career in radio before moving to television in the early 1950s. In 1951, he created and hosted 'Watch Mr. Wizard,' a live science program that brought hands-on experiments to young audiences. The show ran for over a decade and inspired countless children to pursue careers in science and engineering. Herbert revived the format in the 1970s with 'Mr. Wizard's World' on Nickelodeon. He received multiple Emmy Awards and was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame for his contributions to educational broadcasting. Herbert also wrote books and appeared at science fairs and schools. He died in 2007, but his legacy as an advocate for science education endures.

Ian Wallace was an English bass-baritone born in 1919, celebrated for his roles in Gilbert and Sullivan operas. He performed with the D’Oyly Carte Opera Company, earning acclaim for his warm voice and comedic timing. Wallace also appeared on BBC radio and television, bringing opera to a wider audience. Beyond opera, he acted in films and West End musicals, showcasing his versatility on stage and screen. He passed away in 2009, leaving a legacy of memorable and influential performances.

Jeff Donnell was born Jean Marie Donnell in 1921 in Oak Park, Illinois. She began her career on Broadway before moving to Hollywood, appearing in films such as 'What Price Glory?' and musicals like 'Thousands Cheer'. In the 1950s, she transitioned to television, with roles on popular shows including 'The Phil Silvers Show' and 'The Joey Bishop Show'. She was admired for her versatility in comedy and drama and earned a dedicated following. She continued acting in character roles until the mid-1980s and passed away in 1988.

Jake LaMotta was born in 1922 in The Bronx, New York, and rose to fame as a middleweight boxer. Known as the 'Bronx Bull,' he held the world middleweight title in 1949. LaMotta's fierce style and rivalry with Sugar Ray Robinson became legendary in boxing history. After retiring with a record of 83 wins, he pursued acting and comedy, appearing in films and television. His turbulent life was immortalized by Martin Scorsese's 1980 film 'Raging Bull,' starring Robert De Niro. LaMotta remained a cultural icon until his death in 2017 at the age of 95.

Amalia Mendoza was born in 1923 in Huetamo, Michoacán, Mexico. Nicknamed 'La Tariácuri,' she rose to fame in the 1950s with ranchera music. Her recordings for RCA Victor, including 'Échame a mí la culpa,' became classics of Mexican music. Mendoza also appeared in films such as 'Canta y no llores' and 'La Valentina,' showcasing her acting talents. She received several awards for her contributions to Mexican culture and influenced future generations of artists. She passed away in 2001, leaving a rich legacy in both music and cinema.

Suzanne Cloutier was born in 1923 in Ottawa, Canada, and trained in drama in Montreal. She achieved international recognition after starring in Orson Welles's film 'Mr. Arkadin' in 1955. Cloutier appeared in a range of French and English-language films and stage productions throughout Europe. Later in her career, she turned to producing, backing projects that bridged Canadian and European cinema. Her nuanced performances and contributions behind the camera made her a respected figure until her death in 2003.

Carleton Carpenter was a versatile American entertainer whose career spanned film, television, theater, and literature. Born in 1926, he first gained fame as an MGM actor, starring alongside Kathryn Grayson in musicals like “Summer Stock.” An accomplished magician, Carpenter dazzled audiences with sophisticated illusions on stage and television. He also wrote lyrics and music for Broadway shows and popular recordings. In later years, Carpenter authored acclaimed mystery novels that showcased his wit and storytelling prowess. His ability to excel across multiple art forms earned him respect in entertainment circles. He passed away in 2022, leaving behind a rich legacy that crossed the boundaries of stage, screen, and page.