August 19

Born in Edinburgh, Alastair Sim trained at the Glasgow Athenaeum Dramatic School. He began his acting career on stage before transitioning to film in the 1930s. Sim is best remembered for his portrayal of Ebenezer Scrooge in the 1951 film "Scrooge". His unique comedic timing and memorable voice made him one of Britain’s most beloved character actors. Over his career, he appeared in classics such as "The Belles of St Trinian’s" and "Green for Danger". He left a lasting legacy in both theatre and cinema before his death in 1976.

Born Julius Henry Marx in New York City in 1890, he rose to fame with the Marx Brothers on Broadway. Groucho Marx starred in classic films like "Duck Soup" and "Animal Crackers", renowned for his rapid-fire wit. He developed a distinctive persona featuring exaggerated eyebrows, a greasepaint mustache, and a cigar. After the success of the Marx Brothers films, he hosted the popular radio and television quiz show "You Bet Your Life". His influence on comedy and popular culture remains significant, inspiring generations of comedians. Groucho continued performing until his death in 1977, leaving a legacy as one of America’s greatest humorists.

Jessie Matthews began her performing career as a dancer on the London stage in the 1920s. She rose to fame with roles in West End musicals and later starred in hit films like "Evergreen" and "First a Girl". Known for her graceful dance style and clear singing voice, she became one of Britain’s top box-office attractions. Matthews signed with Columbia Pictures and brought her musical talents to Hollywood audiences. Her career waned after World War II, but she continued to perform on stage and television. She is remembered as an icon of British musical theatre and cinema before her death in 1981.

Hermione Baddeley was born in 1906 and began her acting career on the stage as a teenager. She appeared in West End productions and made her film debut in the 1930s. Baddeley earned an Academy Award nomination for her supporting role in "Room at the Top" (1959). She delighted audiences with her memorable performances in films like "Mary Poppins". Her vibrant personality and comedic talent made her a sought-after character actress. She continued acting in theatre, film, and television until her death in 1986.

Born in 1929 in what is now Bangladesh, Utpal Dutt began his career in amateur theatre. He founded the Little Theatre Group in Calcutta, producing plays with strong social and political themes. Dutt wrote and directed influential works that challenged colonial and autocratic rule. He collaborated with film directors like Satyajit Ray, delivering powerful performances on screen. Over his career, he seamlessly navigated film, television, and stage, earning critical acclaim. He is remembered as a towering figure in Bengali theatre and a pioneer of modern Indian drama. Dutt died in 1993, leaving a lasting impact on South Asian performing arts.

Jack Riley was born in 1935 and began his entertainment career in the 1960s comedy circuit. He gained fame as the neurotic Elliot Carlin on the hit sitcom The Bob Newhart Show, earning critical praise for his timing and delivery. Riley also appeared in numerous films and television shows, showcasing his versatile comedic talent. In animation, he became the beloved voice of Stu Pickles on Nickelodeon’s Rugrats franchise. His work spanned over five decades, earning him a dedicated fan base. Riley continued acting and teaching comedy workshops until his death in 2016, remembered for his warmth and humor.

Born in 1932, Dick Gregory began his career as a stand-up comedian, using humor to confront segregation and racial prejudice. His groundbreaking performances in the early 1960s earned him appearances on The Tonight Show and a large national following. Gregory authored several books on race relations, health, and politics, blending personal narrative with sharp social critique. A lifelong activist, he participated in Freedom Rides, marched alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and ran for president on the Freedom and Peace platforms. Later in life, he advocated for healthy living and alternative remedies, becoming a vegan and fitness enthusiast. Gregory’s fearless wit and unwavering commitment to justice left a profound impact when he died in 2017.

Born Sadaho Maeda in 1939, Sonny Chiba studied physical education before entering the film industry. He founded the Japan Action Club in 1970 to elevate stunt work and martial arts choreography in cinema. Chiba’s breakout role came in the 1974 film The Street Fighter, which showcased his deadly techniques and uncompromising style. He went on to appear in numerous samurai, yakuza, and action films, earning acclaim in Japan and abroad. Chiba’s later career included a memorable role as Hattori Hanzo in Quentin Tarantino’s Kill Bill series. His dedication to training and authenticity influenced generations of action actors. Chiba passed away in 2021, leaving a legacy as one of martial arts cinema’s true legends.