August 17

Julia Marlowe was born in England in 1865 and emigrated to the United States as a child. She gained fame through her powerful performances in the works of Shakespeare and other classics. Marlowe was praised for her dignified presence and emotional depth in roles like Juliet, Ophelia, and Rosalind. She co-founded the Julia Marlowe Shakespeare Club, bringing quality theater productions to Broadway audiences. Throughout her career, she toured extensively across the United States and earned accolades for her dramatic range. Marlowe's legacy endures as one of the foremost Shakespearean actresses of the early 20th century. Her work helped popularize classical theater in America.

Born in New York, Monty Woolley studied at Yale and served in the French Army during World War I before turning to acting. He gained fame on Broadway for his portrayal of Sheridan Whiteside in George S. Kaufman's The Man Who Came to Dinner, a role he reprised in the 1942 film adaptation. Renowned for his acerbic wit and flamboyant personality, he became a popular raconteur on radio and television. Over his career, Woolley appeared in numerous films and stage productions, often cast as a dignified gentleman or clever commentator. His resemblance to a distinguished senior with a white beard made him one of the most memorable character actors of his era. He was also a frequent guest on radio quizzes and talk shows, where his humor endeared him to audiences nationwide.

Born in Sandefjord, Lalla Carlsen trained in vocal performance and made her stage debut in 1913. She rose to prominence as one of Norway's first female revue artists, delighting audiences with her singing and comedic timing. Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, she became a national icon, starring in popular revues and early Norwegian films. Her dynamic stage presence and warm personality made her a beloved cultural figure during a transformative era in Norwegian entertainment. Even after World War II, Carlsen continued to perform, leaving a lasting legacy in Norway's theatrical and musical history.

Mae West rose to fame in the 1920s with her risqué Broadway plays and sharp one-liners, challenging social norms. She transitioned to Hollywood with hits like She Done Him Wrong and I’m No Angel, becoming one of the highest-paid stars. West wrote many of her own scripts, infusing her films with double entendres and fearless commentary on gender and sexuality. Throughout her career, she lobbied against censorship, leaving a legacy of empowerment and creative independence. Her charismatic persona and memorable quips have ensured her a lasting place in film history.

Evelyn Ankers was a British-born actress who became a staple of Universal Studios' horror lineup in the 1940s. She starred opposite Lon Chaney Jr. in classics such as The Wolf Man and The Ghost of Frankenstein. Dubbed the 'Queen of the Screamers,' Ankers brought charm and vulnerability to her roles, making her a fan favorite. She appeared in over 30 films and also had success on stage and radio. After retiring from acting in the 1950s, she remained a beloved figure among horror enthusiasts and film historians.

Maureen O'Hara was a celebrated actress known for her strong-willed characters and striking red hair. She starred in classics such as The Quiet Man, How Green Was My Valley, and Miracle on 34th Street. O'Hara's collaborations with directors like John Ford and co-stars like John Wayne cemented her status as a Hollywood legend. In addition to acting, she showcased her singing talent in musicals and live performances. Over her seven-decade career, she received numerous awards and honors, including an honorary Oscar. Her legacy endures as a symbol of resilience and talent in cinema history.

Shane Porteous has built a multifaceted career in the Australian entertainment industry. As an actor, he has taken on a variety of roles across drama and comedy. He has also applied his creative talents to animation projects, working on story development and character design. In addition, Porteous has penned screenplays for both television and feature films, showcasing versatility in storytelling. His work has helped shape contemporary Australian TV and film, earning him recognition among peers. He continues to collaborate with emerging artists and contributes to the growth of Australia's creative scene.

Robert De Niro has delivered iconic performances in films such as 'Taxi Driver', 'Raging Bull', and 'The Godfather Part II', earning multiple Academy Awards and nominations. He co-founded the Tribeca Film Festival in 2002 to revitalize downtown Manhattan's culture through cinema. As a producer, he has backed a range of films showcasing emerging talents. Beyond film, De Niro ventured into hospitality, co-founding the Nobu restaurant chain. His dedication to the craft has spanned over five decades, influencing generations of actors and filmmakers. De Niro's collaborations with directors like Martin Scorsese have become cinematic landmarks. He remains active in both creative and business pursuits, balancing acting with philanthropic efforts in New York City.

Richard Hunt was a pioneering American puppeteer who began his career with Jim Henson's Muppets in the 1970s. He voiced and performed unforgettable characters such as Scooter, Statler, Janice, and Beaker. Hunt was a key contributor to The Muppet Show, Sesame Street, and Fraggle Rock, shaping the humor and heart of the franchise. He was one of the first prominent African-American puppeteers in the industry. Over his two-decade career, Hunt earned acclaim for his versatility and creativity. His work inspired future generations of puppeteers and entertainers. Hunt's legacy endures through the characters he brought to audiences worldwide.

Robert Joy is a Canadian actor whose career spans stage, screen, and television. He earned critical praise for his portrayal of Sid Hammerback on the hit series CSI: NY. Joy's film work includes notable roles in David Cronenberg's The Dead Zone and George A. Romero's Land of the Dead. He has also appeared on Broadway and in numerous television dramas and comedies. With strong dramatic range, Joy is known for bringing depth and nuance to both heroic and villainous characters. His enduring presence in entertainment showcases his dedication to the craft. Joy continues to work in diverse roles, captivating audiences with his performances.

Laurence Overmire is an American poet and author whose writing explores themes of spirituality, history, and the human condition. He has published multiple poetry collections and novels, earning recognition in literary circles. As an actor, Overmire has appeared in regional theatre productions as well as film and television roles. He often integrates poetic elements into his performances, bridging his talents in writing and acting. In addition, he is active in the arts community, contributing to workshops and serving on literary boards.

Sean Penn (born 1960) is an American actor and filmmaker celebrated for his intense and transformative performances. He won Academy Awards for Best Actor for Mystic River (2003) and Milk (2008), portraying complex, real-life figures with authenticity. As a director, his films Into the Wild and The Last Face showcased his narrative ambition and social awareness. Penn is also known for his humanitarian efforts, including relief work in Haiti and advocacy on immigration and human rights. Renowned for his passionate activism and outspoken nature, he often uses his platform to address social and political issues. His career reflects a blend of artistic excellence and commitment to global causes.