August 16

Béla Lugosi immigrated to the United States and became a stage and film star, most famously as Count Dracula in 1931. His haunted expression and accent set the standard for vampire characters for decades. Typecast in horror roles, he appeared in over 100 films, including 'White Zombie' and 'The Black Cat'. Struggling with addiction and limited roles, his later career saw him perform in low-budget productions. Lugosi's enduring legacy is evident in popular culture's fascination with vampires and gothic storytelling.

Born in Paris in 1905 to a theatrical family, Pierre Brasseur began his career on stage. He transitioned to film in the 1930s and quickly gained acclaim for his versatility. His iconic role in Marcel Carné’s 'Children of Paradise' captivated audiences worldwide. In addition to acting, he co-wrote screenplays that showcased his creative talents behind the camera. Over a career spanning four decades, he appeared in over fifty films across drama and comedy genres. Brasseur’s magnetic screen presence made him a standout figure in mid-20th century French cinema. He died in 1972, leaving a rich legacy celebrated by actors and filmmakers alike.

Born in 1935 in Tupelo, Mississippi, Elvis Presley revolutionized popular music with his energetic performances. His fusion of rock, country, and gospel produced timeless hits like 'Heartbreak Hotel' and 'Hound Dog'. Presley earned the title 'King of Rock and Roll' and became a cultural phenomenon in the 1950s. He starred in over thirty films, including 'Jailhouse Rock' and 'Viva Las Vegas', showcasing his charisma. His style, voice, and stage presence influenced generations of musicians and entertainers. Despite his untimely death at 42, his records continue to sell millions of copies worldwide. Elvis remains one of history's best-selling solo artists and a symbol of 20th-century pop culture.

Amanda Blake (1929–1989) gained fame for portraying saloon owner Miss Kitty Russell on the long-running CBS western Gunsmoke. Over 19 seasons and more than 500 episodes, her character became an iconic figure in American television history. Born in Buffalo, New York, Blake began acting in the 1950s and won an Emmy nomination for her performance. Beyond Gunsmoke, she appeared in films and made-for-TV movies, showcasing her range as an actress. Off-screen, she was an accomplished dog breeder and champion of big cats in wildlife conservation. Blake’s warm on-screen presence and dedication to animal causes left a lasting impression. She passed away from cancer in 1989, but her portrayal continues to be celebrated by fans worldwide.

Stewart Granger (1913–1993) was a British-born actor who became a Hollywood leading man in the 1940s and 1950s. Known for his athletic presence and handsome features, he starred in iconic adventure films such as "King Solomon's Mines" (1950) and "Scaramouche" (1952). Granger transitioned seamlessly between film and stage, earning acclaim for his performances in both drama and romance genres. He also appeared in acclaimed films like "Les Misérables" (1952) and "The Prisoner of Zenda" (1952), showcasing his versatility. Off-screen, Granger was an avid sportsman and equestrian, interests that often informed his on-screen roles. His natural charisma and dedication to his craft made him a favorite of directors and audiences alike. In later years, he worked in European cinema before retiring to Spain, where he passed away in 1993.

Phil Leeds (1916–1998) was a New York-born character actor whose quirky presence and comedic timing made him a favorite in Hollywood. Over a career spanning five decades, he appeared in classic films such as "Rosemary's Baby" (1968) and "Ghost" (1990), often as eccentric or wisecracking supporting characters. On television, Leeds had recurring roles on shows like “Friends,” where he played Mona’s father, and made guest appearances on “The Dick Van Dyke Show,” “Seinfeld,” and “Melrose Place.” His distinctive voice and affable persona added depth to every role he undertook. A veteran of the US Army Air Forces in World War II, he brought discipline and professionalism to his craft. Leeds was also active in theater and radio before transitioning to screen acting. He continued working steadily until his death, leaving behind a legacy of memorable character portrayals.

Jeff Corey (1914-2002) was an American actor and acting teacher renowned for his distinctive voice and rugged presence. He appeared in over 100 films and television shows, often in westerns and dramas. After being blacklisted in the 1950s for alleged communist ties, he reinvented himself as a highly respected acting coach in Los Angeles. His workshops attracted future stars such as Jack Nicholson, Barbara Rush, and Sharon Tate. Corey returned to the screen in the 1960s and continued working steadily through the 1980s. He taught at his own studio until his death, leaving a legacy of mentorship and perseverance in the performing arts.

William Windom (1923-2012) began his career on stage before transitioning to film and television, earning acclaim for his nuanced performances. He won an Emmy Award in 1960 for his role in the sitcom ‘My World and Welcome to It’. Over five decades, he appeared in series such as ‘The Twilight Zone’, ‘Quantum Leap’, and ‘Matlock’, as well as films like ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’. Windom was lauded for his ability to portray both charming and enigmatic characters, showcasing remarkable versatility. In addition to acting, he directed stage productions and mentored aspiring performers. His warm presence and dedication to his craft made him a beloved figure in entertainment. Windom continued working into his late years, leaving behind a rich and varied body of work.

Anna Kashfi (1934-2015), born Joan O'Callaghan, was a British actress who appeared in Hollywood during the 1950s. Discovered by a talent scout in London, she adopted her screen name to take on exotic roles. Kashfi made her debut in ‘The Mountain’ (1956), starring alongside Spencer Tracy, and later appeared in ‘Night of the Quarter Moon’. She gained further public attention through her marriage to Marlon Brando in 1957, which ended in a highly publicized divorce. After leaving acting, she penned an autobiography detailing her Hollywood experiences. Kashfi’s distinctive presence and life story captured the glamour and drama of cinema’s golden era. In her later years, she gave lectures and interviews reflecting on her career and personal journey.

Born in New York City in 1940 to actor Henry Fonda and brother of actress Jane Fonda. He co-wrote and starred in the 1969 film Easy Rider, becoming a symbol of the 1960s counterculture. His performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay. Fonda appeared in dozens of films and television shows over five decades, also directing and producing. He remained an influential figure in Hollywood until his death in 2019.

Born in Chertsey, Surrey, in 1963. Lock began his career as a stand-up comedian in the late 1980s. He rose to fame with roles on British panel shows such as 8 Out of 10 Cats and QI. Acclaimed for his intelligent humor and observational comedy style. He remained a beloved figure in British comedy until his death from cancer in 2021.