July 15

General Tom Thumb, born Charles Stratton in 1838, became a celebrated circus performer under showman P.T. Barnum. Despite his small stature, he possessed charm and mimicry skills, delighting audiences with comedic sketches and impersonations of world leaders. Stratton toured Europe, performing for royalty including Queen Victoria. He married fellow performer Lavinia Warren in a widely publicized wedding. His career helped popularize American show business in the 19th century. Tom Thumb died in 1883, and his legacy endures as an icon of the early entertainment industry.

Lawrence Tibbett (1896–1960) was an American baritone celebrated for his powerful voice and charismatic stage presence. He debuted at the Metropolitan Opera in 1923 and became a leading figure in operatic repertoire. Tibbett performed signature roles like Tonio in Pagliacci and was beloved by audiences worldwide. He appeared in Hollywood films and on national radio, helping to popularize opera in the U.S. Beyond singing, he produced music programs and taught young artists through summer camps. His recordings and legacy continue to inspire baritones and opera enthusiasts today.

Margaret Lockwood rose to stardom in the 1930s with her role as Iris Henderson in Alfred Hitchcock's The Lady Vanishes. She became one of Britain's leading film actresses, starring in Gainsborough melodramas such as The Man in Grey and The Wicked Lady. Lockwood's elegance and dramatic range captivated audiences in film, stage, and later television. Over a career spanning five decades, she demonstrated enduring appeal and versatility. She died in 1990, remembered as an icon of British cinema's golden age.

Born in 1933 in St. Louis, Bert Convy began his entertainment career on Broadway in musicals such as Bye Bye Birdie. He transitioned to television and became widely known as the charming host of game shows including Tattletales, Super Password, and Win, Lose or Draw. Convy also appeared in television dramas and films, demonstrating his versatility as a performer. His affable style and wit made him a daytime television favorite, earning multiple Daytime Emmy nominations. He died in 1991, remembered for his significant contributions to game-show history.

Elisabeth Welch (1904–2003) was an American singer and actress whose career spanned over seven decades. Known for her smooth contralto voice and charismatic stage presence, she became a celebrated star in London's West End. Welch appeared in musical revues, films, and on television, captivating audiences with her interpretations of jazz and popular standards. She broke racial barriers as one of the first African American performers to achieve mainstream success in Europe. Her enduring influence is remembered in the world of theatre and music.

Googie Withers (1917–2011) began her acting career in London's West End before transitioning to British cinema in the 1940s. She earned acclaim for her roles in war dramas and film noirs, showcasing a powerful screen presence and emotional depth. Withers later moved to Australia, where she continued acting in television series and theater productions. Her adaptability and longevity in a competitive industry made her a beloved figure on both sides of the globe. Withers received numerous honors for her contributions to the performing arts.

Born in Jerusalem in 1919, Tsilla Chelton moved to Paris to pursue a career in acting. She gained acclaim on the stage before transitioning to film, where her breakthrough performance won critical praise. Chelton’s nuanced portrayals in works like "Tatie Danielle" showcased her comedic timing and dramatic depth. Throughout her career, she collaborated with leading directors of French cinema and remained a beloved figure in theater until her death. Her legacy endures through her memorable characters and contributions to the arts.

Born in Manhattan in 1917, Celeste Holm began her career on Broadway, winning a Tony Award for her performance in "South Pacific." She achieved film stardom with her Academy Award–winning role in "Gentleman's Agreement" (1947) and appeared in classics like "All About Eve" and "High Society." Known for her elegant voice and nuanced performances, she became a beloved figure on stage, film, and television. Holm continued acting and mentoring emerging talent well into her later years. A trailblazer for complex female characters, she left an enduring legacy upon her passing in 2012.

Aubrey Morris was a British actor born in 1926, celebrated for his distinctive character performances. He appeared in Stanley Kubrick's 'A Clockwork Orange' (1971) as Mr. Deltoid, leaving a lasting impression with his eccentric portrayal. Morris also featured in films such as 'The Wicker Man' (1973) and 'Victor/Victoria' (1982), demonstrating his versatility. Beyond cinema, he performed on stage in London's West End and toured with renowned theater companies. His career spanned over six decades, encompassing television roles and voice work. Morris earned praise for his ability to inhabit quirky characters with depth and humor. He passed away in 2015, remembered as a versatile and enduring talent.

Martin Landau (1928–2017) was an American film and television actor renowned for his charismatic and versatile performances. He gained early recognition in the 1960s as the master of disguise Rollin Hand on the hit series Mission: Impossible, earning an Emmy nomination for his work. Over a career spanning six decades, Landau delivered standout performances in films such as North by Northwest and Crimes and Misdemeanors. His portrayal of aging horror star Bela Lugosi in Tim Burton’s Ed Wood won him the 1995 Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, and he received a second Oscar nomination for Tucker: The Man and His Dream. Beyond acting, Landau was devoted to teaching the craft, founding a renowned workshop to mentor aspiring performers. His enduring legacy continues to inspire character actors around the world.