August 25

Agnes Mowinckel was born in Bergen and became a leading figure in Norwegian theatre. She made her stage debut in the early 1900s and quickly gained acclaim for her powerful performances. Mowinckel championed experimental and modernist drama, co-founding the Independent Theatre in Bergen. As a director, she introduced innovative staging techniques and mentored emerging playwrights. She held significant roles at the National Theatre in Oslo and influenced Norway's theatrical landscape for decades. Beyond the stage, she appeared in several films, showcasing her versatility as a performer.

Born in Canada, Keeler moved to New York as a child to pursue dancing. She achieved stardom in Hollywood musicals like 42nd Street (1933) and Gold Diggers of 1933. Her energetic tap routines and charm made her one of Warner Bros.' top musical stars. She married singer Al Jolson in 1928, partnering with him on stage and film until his death in 1950. After retiring from film, she returned to the stage in later decades and appeared on television. Keeler's legacy endures as an icon of the golden age of movie musicals.

Born in Keswick, England, Rennie began his career on the London stage before moving to Hollywood. He made his film debut in the 1940s and gained fame for his calm, authoritative screen presence. His portrayal of the alien Klaatu in The Day the Earth Stood Still made him a science fiction icon. Rennie appeared in over 30 films and later transitioned to television roles in series like Mr. and Mrs. North. He also worked as a producer, contributing to the development of several projects. Rennie's distinctive performances continue to be celebrated by classic film enthusiasts.

Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1913, DeFore began his career on stage before transitioning to Hollywood films in the early 1940s. He appeared in notable movies such as 'Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo' and 'Gentleman Jim'. DeFore later achieved television fame playing Carl 'Daddy' Tucker on the hit series 'Bachelor Father'. He also had a starring role in the radio and television versions of 'The Great Gildersleeve'. Beyond acting, DeFore served as president of the Screen Actors Guild and advocated for performers’ rights. He continued working in film, television, and theater until his death in 1993.

Born in Newport, Rhode Island, in 1916, Johnson moved to New York to pursue modeling and radio before signing with 20th Century Fox. His breakout role in 'Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo' (1944) made him one of Hollywood’s most beloved actors. Johnson starred in musicals and comedies such as 'State Fair' and 'The Fuller Brush Man', showcasing his affable charm. Over his career, he appeared in more than 100 films and later transitioned to television and stage roles. Audiences admired his boyish good looks and versatile performances. Johnson continued acting into his later years, maintaining a presence on screen until his death in 2008.

Born in Elberon, New Jersey, in 1917, Ferrer began his career on Broadway before transitioning to Hollywood films. He achieved acclaim for his role as the Duc de Guise in 'Scaramouche' (1952) and worked alongside stars like Ava Gardner and Elizabeth Taylor. Ferrer also directed and produced films including the musical 'Lili' (1953), demonstrating his breadth of talent. His marriage to actress Audrey Hepburn drew significant public attention and showcased his personal life in the limelight. Beyond film, Ferrer appeared on television and returned to the stage, maintaining a diverse career. He continued acting and directing until his death in 2008.

Born in Plymouth, England, Greene began his acting career on stage in the late 1930s. He gained international acclaim for his portrayal of Robin Hood in the television series The Adventures of Robin Hood. Across a career spanning film, television, and theatre, he became known for his charismatic presence and heroic characters. Greene brought depth and gallantry to classic literary heroes and historical figures. He continued acting in both British and Hollywood productions until his retirement in the 1970s. His contributions to screen and stage left a lasting legacy in adventure storytelling.

Born Monte Halparin in Winnipeg, Hall became a radio announcer before moving to television. He hosted the popular game show Let's Make a Deal for over 30 years, delighting audiences with his charm. Hall’s name inspired the famous "Monty Hall problem" in probability theory. He advocated for animal welfare and served on several conservation boards. Hall received the Order of Canada for his contributions to broadcasting and philanthropy. He remained active in television production and charity work until his passing in 2017.

Born in 1930 in Edinburgh, Scotland, Sean Connery rose from humble beginnings to become a film icon. He gained worldwide fame as the original James Bond, starring in seven 007 films from 1962 to 1971. Connery won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in The Untouchables (1987). His versatile career spanned dramas, thrillers, and historical epics, including Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade and Highlander. He received a knighthood in 2000 for his services to film drama. Connery's charismatic presence and distinctive voice made him one of cinema's most enduring stars. He passed away in 2020, leaving a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.

Graham Jarvis was a Canadian actor whose career spanned stage, film, and television for over four decades. Born in 1930, he trained at the National Theatre School of Canada before making his screen debut in the early 1960s. Jarvis appeared in numerous feature films and popular TV series, often lauded for his nuanced character portrayals. He balanced work between Hollywood productions and Canadian independent projects, showcasing his range in both drama and comedy. A respected stage performer, he returned to theatre regularly throughout his career. His dedication to craft earned him critical praise in Canada and abroad. He died in 2003.

Regis Philbin was an American television host, actor, and media personality whose charismatic presence made him a household name. Born in 1931 in New York City, he began his career in television as a page at 'The Tonight Show' and later became a weatherman. Philbin achieved fame co-hosting 'Live! with Regis and Kathie Lee,' where his quick wit and warmth endeared him to millions. He also hosted game shows including 'Who Wants to Be a Millionaire,' earning him a Guinness World Record for the most hours on camera. Philbin's approachable style and humor influenced a generation of TV hosts. He received multiple Daytime Emmy Awards before retiring in 2011. He died in 2020.

Tom Skerritt is an American actor with a career spanning film, television, and theater since the 1960s. Born in 1933 in Detroit, he served in the U.S. Army before studying drama at Michigan State University. Skerritt's breakthrough came with the film 'MASH,' and he went on to star in hits like 'Alien,' 'Top Gun,' and 'A River Runs Through It.' On television, he earned an Emmy Award for his role in 'Picket Fences,' showcasing his talent for both drama and comedy. He has continued working across genres, appearing in independent films and network series alike. Skerritt also teaches acting workshops and supports community theater. His enduring presence has made him a beloved figure in entertainment.