August 10

Jack Haley (1897–1979) was an American actor and singer whose most iconic role was the Tin Man in MGM's classic film The Wizard of Oz (1939). He began his career in vaudeville and transitioned to Hollywood musicals, showcasing his comedic timing and singing abilities. Haley appeared in films like Charley's Aunt and Night at the Opera alongside the Marx Brothers. He also worked as a director and production manager later in his career. Haley's warm screen presence and memorable performances have cemented his status in Hollywood history.

Norma Shearer (1902–1983) was a Canadian-American film actress who became one of MGM's leading stars in the 1920s and 1930s. She won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her performance in The Divorcee (1930). Known for her versatility, Shearer starred in dramas, comedies, and period pieces such as Marie Antoinette and The Barretts of Wimpole Street. Her screen charisma and advocacy for more modern female roles helped redefine women's image in early sound cinema. Shearer retired after the Second World War, leaving a legacy as one of Hollywood's pioneering female icons.

Noah Beery Jr. was an American actor whose career spanned over six decades. He was the son of silent film star Noah Beery Sr. and nephew of Academy Award winner Wallace Beery. Beery Jr. appeared in numerous Westerns and became a familiar face on television, perhaps most famously portraying Joseph 'Rocky' Rockford on the detective series The Rockford Files. His warm screen presence and distinctive voice made him a beloved character actor. He also maintained a steady presence in feature films, including roles in Hondo and The Horse Soldiers. Throughout his career, he earned respect for his professionalism and versatility on screen.

Jeff Corey was an American actor whose career included over 90 film and television roles. After being blacklisted during the McCarthy era, he reinvented himself as a respected acting teacher in Beverly Hills. Corey appeared in classics such as True Grit, Shane, and Support Your Local Sheriff!, showcasing his ability to inhabit diverse characters. His students included luminaries like Jack Nicholson, Jane Fonda, and Bruce Dern. As a coach, he emphasized realism and emotional truth, influencing a generation of performers. He continued to act into his 80s, demonstrating his enduring passion for the arts. Corey’s resilience and dedication made him a significant figure in both performance and pedagogy.

Rhonda Fleming rose to fame in the 1940s with starring roles in films such as Spellbound (1945) and Out of the Past (1947). Nicknamed the “Queen of Technicolor,” she captivated audiences with her striking presence and vibrant screen chemistry. Over her career, she appeared in over 40 films and several television series, earning critical acclaim for her versatility. Beyond acting, Fleming was an avid philanthropist, supporting various charitable causes including music education and military veterans. She received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and remained a beloved figure in American cinema until her passing in 2020.

Martha Hyer gained fame in the 1950s with standout performances in films like Some Came Running (1958), for which she received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. She starred opposite Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, showcasing her elegance and dramatic depth. Hyer appeared in over 40 films and numerous television series, becoming a recognizable face of Hollywood’s Golden Age. Known for her intelligence and charm off-screen, she was also active in social causes. Hyer retired in the late 1970s and later authored a memoir reflecting on her life in show business. She passed away in 2014 at the age of 90.

Vernon Washington was an American actor known for his work in mid-20th century film and television. He began his career in the late 1940s, appearing in both dramatic and comedic roles. Washington gained recognition for his versatility, transitioning seamlessly between supporting and guest parts. In the 1950s, he made notable television appearances that endeared him to a wide audience. Over four decades, he maintained a steady presence on screen and stage. His dedication to his craft left a lasting impression before his death in 1988.

Jimmy Dean was an American country music singer whose 1961 single 'Big Bad John' topped the charts and became a cultural phenomenon. He hosted the popular television variety series 'The Jimmy Dean Show', showcasing emerging talent alongside his own performances. As an actor, Dean appeared in films and television programs throughout the 1950s and 1960s. In 1969, he founded the Jimmy Dean Food Company, which revolutionized branded sausage products in the United States. His entrepreneurial spirit helped build a culinary legacy that endures today. Dean's multifaceted career bridged music, entertainment, and business until his death in 2010.

Eddie Fisher was an American singer who rose to fame in the early 1950s with chart-topping hits like 'I Need You Now'. His smooth baritone voice and charismatic stage presence made him a household name. Fisher also ventured into acting, appearing on television variety shows and in theatrical productions. He recorded over two dozen albums and earned multiple gold records during his career. Fisher's personal life, including high-profile marriages, garnered significant media attention. He remained an influential figure in popular music until his death in 2010.

Gus Mercurio was an American-Australian actor who appeared in film and television from the 1950s through the early 2000s. He originally worked as a boxing promoter and coach before transitioning to acting. Mercurio gained popularity for his character roles in Australian productions, often portraying tough or authoritative figures. He featured in both movies and long-running TV series, earning a reputation for his distinctive presence. In addition to his screen work, he remained involved in the boxing community as an announcer and trainer. Mercurio passed away in 2010, leaving behind a diverse body of work in entertainment and sports.

Tom Laughlin was an American actor, director, producer, and screenwriter who achieved fame with his 'Billy Jack' films beginning in the 1970s. He wrote and directed all installments, blending martial arts action with social commentary on issues like racism and political unrest. 'Billy Jack' became a cult classic for its independent production and box office success outside mainstream Hollywood. Laughlin's portrayal of the half-Native American protagonist resonated with audiences seeking countercultural narratives. He later ran for public office, advocating for reform in the U.S. political system. Laughlin's innovative approach to independent filmmaking and activism maintained his influence until his death in 2013.

Malene Schwartz is a Danish actress whose career has spanned over six decades in theater, film, and television. She trained at the Royal Danish Theatre school and made her professional debut in the late 1950s. Schwartz gained international recognition for portraying Maude Varnæs in the beloved Danish TV series Matador from 1978 to 1981. She has appeared in numerous Danish films, stage productions, and TV dramas, earning acclaim for her emotional range and screen presence. Throughout her career, Schwartz has become a cultural icon in Denmark, mentoring younger actors and contributing to the performing arts community.