July 20

Born in 1867, Fields rose to fame as one half of the comedy duo Weber and Fields, whose slapstick routines captivated vaudeville audiences. After the duo parted ways, he became a successful Broadway producer, staging musicals and revues that launched many stars of the era. His productions included popular shows like the stage adaptation of The Wizard of Oz and Topsy and Eva. Fields also appeared in early silent films, bringing his stage craft to the screen. His career spanned over five decades, and he remained active in entertainment until his death in 1941, influencing American comedy and theater.

Born in 1901 in Cheyenne, Wyoming, Harris began her acting career as a child in Hollywood. She rose to prominence in the early 1920s, starring in silent dramas and comedies. At age 16, she married Charlie Chaplin, becoming one of the most talked-about celebrities of her time. Although their marriage ended in divorce, she continued to find work in films like The Ring and The Rise of Jennie Cushing. Transitioning into talking pictures proved challenging, and her roles grew smaller over time. Harris remained active in acting and community theater until her death in 1944, leaving behind a legacy as a pioneer of early American cinema.

Geeta Dutt was born in Faridpur, India in 1930 and became a pioneering playback singer for Hindi cinema. She gained fame in the 1950s through her collaborations with music directors such as O.P. Nayyar. In 1953, she married director Guru Dutt and recorded numerous songs for his films, blending classical and folk elements. Known for her emotive voice and range, she delivered hits like 'Mera Sundar Sapna Beet Gaya' and 'Waqt Ne Kiya Kya Haseen Sitam'. Her personal life was marked by struggles with alcoholism after her husband's death in 1964. Despite health challenges, she continued to record until her untimely death in 1972.

Bruce Lee was born in San Francisco in 1940 and raised in Hong Kong, where he studied Wing Chun under master Yip Man. In the 1960s, he gained fame in the United States as Kato in The Green Hornet television series. He revolutionized martial arts cinema with films such as Fist of Fury, The Way of the Dragon, and Enter the Dragon. Lee founded his own martial arts philosophy, Jeet Kune Do, emphasizing adaptability and directness. He also wrote books and taught martial arts, inspiring countless practitioners worldwide. His sudden death in 1973 at the age of 32 led to worldwide mourning and cemented his legacy as a cultural icon.

Allen Jenkins was born Alfred McGonegal in New York City in 1900 and began his career on Broadway in the 1920s. He became a popular character actor in Hollywood, often cast as the likable sidekick or comic relief. Jenkins appeared in over 200 films, including Blonde Crazy (1931) and The Inspector General (1949). A gifted singer, he occasionally performed musical numbers in films and vaudeville shows. His distinctive voice and cigar-chomping persona made him a memorable presence on screen. He continued acting in television and radio until his death in 1974.

Richard Egan (1921-1987) was an American soldier and actor. He served in the United States Army before embarking on a successful career in Hollywood. Egan appeared in films and television series from the 1940s through the 1970s, often portraying strong, heroic characters. His rugged good looks and on-screen charisma earned him leading roles opposite major stars. Notable for his performances in both war dramas and romantic films, he became a familiar face to cinema audiences. Egan's dual legacy as a serviceman and performer remains celebrated on the anniversary of his death.

Sandra Gould (1916-1999) was an American actress whose career spanned radio, film, and television. She began in radio comedies before moving to Hollywood, where she appeared in feature films and guest spots on popular TV shows. Gould achieved widespread recognition for portraying Aunt Harriet Cooper on the 1960s Batman series. Her warm presence and comedic timing endeared her to audiences nationwide. In addition to Batman, she appeared in multiple sitcoms and variety programs, showcasing her versatility. Gould passed away on July 20, 1999, leaving behind a legacy of memorable character performances.

James Doohan was born in Vancouver in 1920 and served with the Royal Canadian Artillery during World War II. He joined the original Star Trek series in 1966 as Chief Engineer Montgomery 'Scotty' Scott, a role that made him an icon. Doohan brought humor and heart to the character, popularizing the phrase 'Beam me up, Scotty.' Beyond Star Trek, he lent his voice to numerous animated series and radio dramas. He authored an autobiography detailing his acting career and wartime experiences. Doohan received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and remained active in fan conventions until his passing. His legacy continues to inspire generations of science fiction enthusiasts.

Gérard Oury was born in 1919 in Paris and began his career as a stage actor. He transitioned to film directing and achieved massive success with comedies in the 1960s and 1970s. His 1966 film 'La Grande Vadrouille' remains one of the highest-grossing French films of all time. Oury's collaborations with Louis de Funès became hallmarks of French cinematic humor. He also produced films that showcased his talent for timing and ensemble casts. Throughout his career, Oury balanced commercial appeal with sharp comedic writing. He passed away in 2006, hailed as a master of French comedy cinema.

Radu Beligan (1918-2016) was a Romanian actor, theater director, and writer. He holds the Guinness World Record for the longest career as an actor, spanning more than nine decades. Beligan performed in over 70 films and hundreds of theater productions across Romania. He served as director of the National Theater in Bucharest and mentored generations of actors. An accomplished essayist, he authored books on theater theory and his personal memoirs. His versatility earned him national honors, including the Order of the Star of Romania. Beligan's passion for performance inspired audiences well into his late 90s. He passed away at the age of 97, leaving an unparalleled legacy in Romanian arts.