July 21

Ellen Terry (1847–1928) was one of the leading Shakespearean actresses of the Victorian era. She began her stage career at age 10 and quickly gained acclaim for her portrayal of Ophelia and Lady Macbeth. Terry collaborated with actor-manager Henry Irving, creating legendary performances at the Lyceum Theatre in London. Her expressive acting style and charisma captivated audiences for over six decades. She later taught drama and lectured on theatre, influencing future generations of actors. Terry's portraits by John Singer Sargent immortalized her in the arts beyond the stage.

Charley Paddock (1900–1943) was an American sprinter who won two gold medals at the 1920 Summer Olympics. He set world records in the 100 meters and 200 meters, earning the nickname the fastest man alive. Paddock transitioned to acting, starring in silent films and on stage. He captivated audiences with his athletic grace and charismatic performances. Paddock's pioneering blend of sports excellence and entertainment left a lasting impact.

Born in Johannesburg in 1892, Basil Rathbone moved to England as a child and trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. He gained fame on stage before transitioning to film, where he became celebrated for his elegant and intense interpretations. Rathbone is best remembered for starring as Sherlock Holmes in a series of fourteen films produced between 1939 and 1946. He also appeared in countless other movies, radio plays, and television productions, showcasing his versatility as an actor and singer. His refined diction and commanding presence made him one of Hollywood's most respected character actors. Rathbone's legacy endures through his iconic performances, which continue to influence portrayals of Holmes and other classic roles.

Born Ruth Dennis in 1878 in Newark, New Jersey, Ruth St. Denis adopted her distinctive stage name and developed a unique dance style inspired by Eastern religions and theatrical traditions. She co-founded the Denishawn School of Dancing and Related Arts in 1915 with her husband Ted Shawn, training many future dance greats like Martha Graham and Doris Humphrey. St. Denis's innovative choreography introduced exotic themes to Western audiences and expanded the possibilities of expressive movement. Her performances were celebrated for their spiritual depth and dramatic flair, breaking away from strict classical ballet conventions. She continued to teach and create works well into her eighties, leaving a profound impact on American dance. St. Denis died in 1968, but her vision shaped modern dance as an art form.

Born in 1913, Garroway began his career in radio before transitioning to television. In 1952, he became the inaugural host of the Today show, blending news, interviews, and light conversation in a fresh morning format. His warm, laid-back approach endeared him to millions of viewers. Beyond Today, he appeared in films and stage productions, demonstrating versatility as a performer. Despite health challenges, his influence on broadcast journalism set the template for modern morning shows and solidified his legacy as a television pioneer.

Born in 1907, Young began his acting career in radio dramas and transitioned to Hollywood films in the 1930s. He earned acclaim for his versatile performances in comedies, dramas, and westerns. In 1954, he starred as the father in the popular TV sitcom 'Father Knows Best', winning four Emmy Awards and becoming a household name. He later headlined the medical drama 'Marcus Welby, M.D.', which further showcased his range and earned him additional accolades. Young’s warm demeanor and relatable portrayals made him one of mid-century America’s most beloved performers.

Long John Baldry was born in London and became a seminal figure in the British blues revival of the 1960s. He was a founding member of Blues Incorporated and performed alongside emerging talents such as Rod Stewart and Elton John. Baldry’s powerful baritone voice led to solo hits like “I Had a Dream.” He moved to Canada in the 1970s, where he continued his music career and acted in films and television. Notably, he recorded the top-ten album Baldry’s Out! and starred in the musical Hair. Baldry died on July 21, 2005, remembered for his deep influence on the rock and blues scene on both sides of the Atlantic.

Mako Iwamatsu, known professionally as Mako, was born in Kobe, Japan. He moved to the United States and achieved fame for his dramatic roles in films such as The Sand Pebbles and Conan the Barbarian, earning an Academy Award nomination for The Sand Pebbles. Mako also lent his distinctive voice to television and animation, most famously as Aku in Samurai Jack. Beyond acting, he released jazz and traditional Japanese music recordings, showcasing his singing talent. He co-founded the East West Players theater group to promote Asian-American artists. Mako died on July 21, 2006, leaving a lasting impact on film and animation.

Born in Swansea in 1944, Angharad Rees trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art before making her stage debut with the Royal Shakespeare Company. She rose to international fame in the 1970s as Demelza Poldark, winning acclaim for her performance in the hit BBC adaptation of Winston Graham's novels. Rees appeared in films such as "The House That Dripped Blood" and on television in series like "Tales of the Unexpected." Later in her career, she pursued sculpture and remained active in Welsh arts advocacy. Rees's enduring legacy rests on her vivid screen presence and contributions to British drama.

Born in 1946 in Washington, D.C., Heard began his career in theater before transitioning to film and television in the 1970s. He earned acclaim for roles in films like Big and Head of the Class, and became a familiar face on TV shows including The Sopranos. His portrayal of Peter McCallister in Home Alone made him beloved by audiences worldwide. Over a career spanning four decades, he demonstrated versatility across drama, comedy, and thriller genres. Heard died on July 21, 2017, at age 71, leaving behind a rich body of work admired by fans and colleagues alike.

Born in 1930 and raised in Scotland and England, Ross moved to the United States in the 1950s and became a leading figure in vocal jazz. Her composition 'Twisted' showcased her innovative vocalese style, and with Lambert and Hendricks she recorded landmark albums that influenced generations of singers. Ross also appeared in films such as Short Cuts and on television, demonstrating her versatility as a performer. Despite personal struggles, she made celebrated comebacks and continued performing into her eighties. She died on July 21, 2020, at the age of 89, leaving a profound impact on jazz and film.