August 17

Vivian Vance (1909–1979) was an American actress and singer who gained fame as Ethel Mertz, Lucy Ricardo's witty sidekick on I Love Lucy. Her performance earned her a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in 1952. After the show, she continued her partnership with Lucille Ball on The Lucy Show and appeared in stage musicals and television specials. Vance's warm comedic timing and musical talents made her a beloved figure in early American television. She broke barriers for women in comedy and left a lasting impact on the genre.

Shaike Ophir (1929–1987) was an Israeli performer whose versatile talents spanned acting, comedy, writing, and music. He first gained popularity with comedic sketches and one-man shows that satirized Israeli society. Ophir starred in landmark films like 'Sallah Shabati' and 'The Policeman,' earning acclaim for his ability to blend humor with social commentary. He also wrote screenplays and composed songs, contributing to the development of modern Israeli cinema. In 1984, Ophir was awarded the Israel Prize for his significant cultural impact. His legacy endures in the vibrant tradition of Israeli performing arts.

Victoria Shaw (1935–1988) was an Australian actress who transitioned from local stage performances to Hollywood in the late 1950s. She gained prominence starring opposite Doris Day in Pillow Talk and showcased her talent in films like The Iron Mistress and Take Her, She's Mine. Shaw also appeared on television series including Alfred Hitchcock Presents and Bonanza, demonstrating her versatility across genres. Her graceful screen presence and charm earned her recognition during Hollywood's golden era. Later in life, Shaw dealt with personal challenges and focused on her family before her untimely death in 1988.

Pearl Bailey (1918–1990) was an American entertainer whose career spanned Broadway, film, television, and music. She won the Tony Award for Best Lead Actress in a Musical for her role as Dolly Gallagher Levi in Hello, Dolly! in 1968, becoming a trailblazer for African-American performers. Bailey recorded hit albums, starred in films like Carmen Jones, and hosted her own television specials. Known for her warm personality and wit, she advocated for civil rights and public service throughout her life. Her autobiography 'The Raw Pearl' offered an intimate look at her journey from humble beginnings to international stardom. Bailey's legacy continues to inspire artists and audiences alike.

Władysław Komar (1940–1998) was a celebrated Polish shot putter and actor. He won the gold medal in shot put at the 1972 Munich Olympics, setting an Olympic record. Komar also earned multiple European and national titles throughout his athletic career. Following retirement from sports, he transitioned into acting, appearing in films and television shows in Poland. His charismatic presence and athletic background made him a popular figure in the entertainment industry. Komar’s achievements in both athletics and arts made him a national icon, commemorated in Polish sports history.

Born in Taylorville, Illinois, in 1937, Yvonne Craig trained at the School of American Ballet before transitioning to film and television. She appeared in musicals and dramas throughout the late 1950s and early 1960s, showcasing her graceful dance background. Craig's portrayal of Batgirl in 1967–1968 brought her international recognition and cemented her status as a pop culture icon. She continued to perform on stage and screen, guest-starring on popular series such as The Man from U.N.C.L.E. and Star Trek. After retiring from acting, she dedicated her life to arts education and advocacy, mentoring young performers. Her legacy endures in the hearts of Batman fans and dance enthusiasts around the world.

Born in Edmonton in 1923, Arthur Hiller moved to New York and began his career in television directing live dramas in the 1950s. He transitioned to feature films in the 1960s, achieving international fame with 'Love Story', which received seven Oscar nominations. Hiller directed more than 30 films across genres, including comedies like 'The Hospital' and romantic dramas such as 'Silver Streak'. He served as President of the Directors Guild of America from 1993 to 1997, championing the rights of film and TV directors. A recipient of the DGA Lifetime Achievement Award, Hiller's work influenced generations of filmmakers. He continued to mentor young directors until his death in 2016, leaving a lasting legacy in Hollywood.