July 27

Vera Karalli was born in 1889 in Moscow and trained at the Imperial Ballet School. She quickly rose to prominence as a principal dancer with the Bolshoi and Mariinsky Theatres. Renowned for her expressive performance, she transitioned to choreography, creating works for major ballet companies. Karalli also appeared in early Russian silent films, bringing her grace and stage presence to the screen. Following the Russian Revolution, she emigrated and continued her artistic career in Europe. Her legacy endures in the development of dramatic ballet performance and dance on film.

Mientje Kling was born in 1894 in Utrecht and began her acting career on the Dutch stage. She transitioned to film in the 1910s, starring in silent movies popular across Europe. Kling's expressive performances earned her acclaim, and she seamlessly adapted to sound films in the 1930s. After World War II, she returned to theater and contributed to the revival of Dutch performing arts. Her career spanned over five decades, reflecting the evolution of early cinema and theater. Kling is remembered as a versatile performer who helped shape Dutch film history.

Born in 1903, Cherkasov trained in theater before rising to prominence in Soviet cinema under director Sergei Eisenstein. He portrayed historical figures with commanding presence, earning him national acclaim and numerous honors. He was awarded titles such as People's Artist of the USSR and multiple Stalin Prizes for his performances. Cherkasov's collaborations with prominent filmmakers helped define an era of Soviet film, blending artistry with ideological storytelling. His legacy endures as one of the most influential actors in Russian cinematic history until his death in 1966.

Ross Alexander was born on July 27, 1907 in Brooklyn, New York. He began his acting career on Broadway in the early 1930s, performing in musicals and comedies. He transitioned to Hollywood, appearing in a series of films that showcased his singing and dancing talents. Known for his charming smile and warm voice, he quickly became a favorite in studio musicals. Off-screen, Alexander faced personal challenges that plagued him throughout his career. In 1937, at just 30 years old, he died by suicide, cutting short a promising trajectory. Despite his brief time on screen, his body of work continues to reflect the early era of sound cinema.

Lupita Tovar was born on July 27, 1910 in Matías Romero, Oaxaca, Mexico. She entered Hollywood during the early sound era and gained fame as Eva in 'Drácula' (1931), the Spanish-language adaptation filmed concurrently with the English version. Her performance showcased her dramatic range and helped popularize Spanish-language cinema in the United States. Tovar appeared in both American and Mexican film productions, bridging two cultures in her work. After retiring from acting, she remained active in preserving film history, co-founding a Spanish-language film festival. She lived to 106, often sharing memories of Hollywood’s golden age. Tovar passed away in 2016, remembered as a pioneer for Latina actresses in cinema.

Keenan Wynn was born in New York City in 1916 into a show-business family as the son of comedian Ed Wynn. He appeared in over 200 films and television shows, often portraying comedic or villainous supporting characters. Notable performances include his role in Dr. Strangelove and collaborations with director Preston Sturges. Wynn also had a successful stage and radio career and voiced the villainous Joker in the 1960s Batman TV series. He received critical acclaim for his dynamic presence and timing. He continued acting until shortly before his death in 1986, leaving a legacy of memorable screen performances.

Henry D. 'Homer' Haynes was born in 1920 in Knoxville, Tennessee, and rose to fame as one half of the music comedy duo Homer and Jethro. Known for their humorous country song parodies, the duo recorded over 30 albums and won Grammy Awards for their witty arrangements. Haynes played guitar and sang alongside Kenneth 'Jethro' Burns's mandolin work, creating a unique blend of musicianship and comedy. Their radio and television appearances throughout the 1940s and 1950s solidified their status as American entertainment icons. Haynes's work influenced later musical comedians. He died in 1971, leaving behind a catalog of inventive and laughter-filled performances.

Émile Genest was born in Quebec City in 1921 and began his acting career in Canadian radio before moving into film and television. He appeared in movies such as The Cincinnati Kid and TV series including Perry Mason and Mission: Impossible. Genest was bilingual, performing in both English and French productions, and was valued for his versatility. His career spanned over four decades, capturing a range of dramatic and comedic roles. In addition to screen acting, he contributed to Canadian theater and voiced characters on radio. He passed away in 2003, remembered for his enduring presence on stage and screen.

Adolfo Celi was born in Messina, Italy, in 1922 and enjoyed a prolific career as an actor, director, and screenwriter. International audiences recognize him as the villain Emilio Largo in the 1965 James Bond film Thunderball. Celi worked extensively in European cinema and theater, directing several Italian films and contributing to their screenplays. He founded a theater company in São Paulo and played a major role in Brazilian theater. His commanding presence and deep voice made him a memorable screen antagonist. Celi continued to act in film and television until his death in 1986, leaving a diverse body of work across multiple roles.

Jordan rose to fame in the 1950s and 1960s for his accurate and humorous impersonations of Ed Sullivan on stage and television. He appeared in films such as The Great Northfield Minnesota Raid and provided voice work for various animated projects. Jordan's Sullivan act became a staple on The Ed Sullivan Show, where he made multiple appearances. In addition to his comedic performances, he acted in theater productions and regional television programs. He continued performing stand-up and impressions into his later years, delighting audiences with his legendary mimicry.

Jerry Van Dyke (July 27, 1931 – January 5, 2018) was an American actor and comedian, and the younger brother of Dick Van Dyke. He starred in the sitcom My Mother the Car (1965) and earned critical acclaim as assistant coach Luther Van Dam on Coach (1989–1997). Van Dyke made guest appearances on shows like The Dick Van Dyke Show, Roseanne, and Diagnosis: Murder, showcasing his comedic timing. He appeared in films such as The Court Jester and participated in national comedy tours and live performances. Known for his warm personality and slapstick humor, he became a beloved figure in television comedy. He continued to perform in regional theater and live events until his death in 2018.

Diane Webber (1932-2008) was an American model renowned for her striking looks, appearing in leading fashion magazines of the 1950s. She expanded her career into dance, performing in nightclubs and musical stage productions. Webber also pursued acting, taking roles in film and television programs. Her versatile talents made her a notable figure in mid-20th-century entertainment. She remains remembered for her contributions to modeling, dance and acting.