August 15

Ethel Barrymore was born in 1879 into the renowned Barrymore family and made her Broadway debut in the late 19th century. Throughout her career, she excelled in both stage and screen roles, earning critical acclaim for her versatile performances. She was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in 'None but the Lonely Heart' (1944). Known for her commanding presence and dramatic skill, she helped elevate American theater and cinema. Barrymore's legacy endures through her contributions to the performing arts and her family's storied acting tradition.

Estelle Brody was born in New York City in 1900 and moved to London in the 1920s to pursue an acting career. She gained acclaim for her performance opposite Anna May Wong in the 1929 film 'Piccadilly,' which showcased her dramatic range. Brody appeared in both silent and early sound films, including 'The Lure' (1933), before retiring from the screen. After leaving acting, she taught drama and led a private life away from Hollywood. Her transatlantic success helped bridge American and British film industries during a pivotal era. Brody's work endured in film history until her death in 1995.

Dame Wendy Hiller was born in 1912 in Manchester and trained at Cambridge University before embarking on a distinguished acting career. She made her stage debut in 1932 and quickly earned acclaim for her performances in works by Shakespeare, Shaw, and Coward. Hiller transitioned to film with notable roles in Hitchcock's 'The 39 Steps' and made her mark with a Best Actress Oscar nomination for George Bernard Shaw's 'Pygmalion.' In 1959 she won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for 'Separate Tables.' Throughout her career she remained active on Broadway and the West End, earning a reputation for intelligence, grace, and emotional depth.

Signe Hasso was born in Stockholm in 1915 and began her acting career on the Swedish stage as a teenager. She emigrated to Hollywood in the late 1930s and starred in films such as 'Heaven Only Knows' and 'Hollow Triumph,' showcasing her versatility in drama and comedy. Hasso also appeared on radio and television and performed in touring productions across the United States. Known for her musical talents as well, she recorded songs and narrated audiobooks later in life. She returned to Sweden in her later career but remained beloved by audiences on both sides of the Atlantic for her elegance and warmth.

Born in New York City in 1919, Huntz Hall began his acting career as a child in the Our Gang comedies. He rose to fame as the streetwise character "Dippy" in the Bowery Boys films, appearing in over forty movies in the 1940s and 1950s. His distinctive humor and lovable persona made him a household name during Hollywood's golden age. Hall continued to act in film and television throughout his life, showcasing his versatility in both comedic and dramatic roles. He passed away in 1999, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and cinematic charm.

Born in 1921, August Kowalczyk graduated from the State Theatre School in Krakow and began his career on Poland's stages. He gained recognition for his versatile performances in both classic and contemporary plays at major theatres across the country. Kowalczyk also appeared in numerous Polish films, showcasing his talent on screen. In the 1960s, he transitioned to directing, leading productions celebrated for their innovative storytelling. Throughout his long career, he mentored younger actors and helped shape modern Polish theatre. He passed away in 2012, leaving behind a rich artistic legacy.

Born Rose Marie Mazzetta in 1923, she began her career as a child singer performing in nightclubs and on radio. She transitioned into acting before landing her signature role as Sally Rogers on 'The Dick Van Dyke Show' from 1961 to 1966. Marie's sharp wit and musical talent earned her critical acclaim and Emmy nominations. She continued to perform on stage, television, and in cabaret throughout her long career. One of the first women to break into male-dominated comedy writing rooms, she influenced future generations of performers. She passed away in 2017, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking entertainment.

Born in 1925 in Fresno, California, Mike Connors began acting in the 1950s, appearing in film and television guest roles before landing the lead in the CBS detective series Mannix in 1967. His portrayal of the resourceful Joe Mannix spanned eight seasons and earned him an Emmy nomination. Connors also produced episodes of the show and starred in films such as Twist Around the Clock. Known for his rugged charm and wit, he became one of television’s most recognizable private eyes. Connors continued to work in film and television into the 2000s, leaving a legacy when he passed away in 2017.

Born in 1926 on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota, Eddie Little Sky was one of the first Native American actors to work regularly in Hollywood Westerns. He appeared in films such as 'Cheyenne Autumn' and guest-starred on television series including Bonanza and Gunsmoke. Committed to portraying Indigenous characters with dignity, he often advised on cultural accuracy for costume and set design. Little Sky's career helped pave the way for greater representation of Native Americans in entertainment. He remained active in community advocacy until his death in 1997.

Born in Las Vegas in 1932, Abby Dalton began her acting career in the late 1950s and quickly became a popular television star. She is best remembered for her role on "Falcon Crest" as Constance MacKenzie, earning her an Emmy nomination. Dalton demonstrated remarkable range in both comedic parts on shows such as "Hennesey" and dramatic performances. Over her career, she appeared in numerous films, commercials, and theater productions, captivating audiences with her charm and talent. She also mentored young actors and remained active in charity work. Dalton's enduring legacy is celebrated by fans of classic American television.

Born in 1932 in San Francisco, Jim Lange began his broadcasting career as a jazz DJ. He rose to fame in 1965 when he became the charismatic host of ABC's "The Dating Game", remaining with the show for over a decade. Lange's affable style and quick wit endeared him to millions of viewers. In addition to his television work, he hosted radio programs across the country and performed voice-over work for commercials. His contributions to game show history were recognized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Lange's warm presence and professionalism influenced generations of hosts in broadcasting.

Jim Dale began his professional career in the 1950s with roles in British films and West End musicals, earning acclaim for his singing and comedic timing. He created memorable characters as a voice actor in the unabridged audiobook series of Harry Potter, winning two Grammy Awards for his performances. Dale has appeared on Broadway in productions such as Barnum, for which he received a Tony Award nomination, and continues to entertain audiences with his storytelling tours. As a composer and director, he has written and produced numerous theatre shows, showcasing his talents behind the scenes. With a career spanning over six decades, Jim Dale remains a celebrated figure in theatre, film, and audio narration.