September 07

Albert Bassermann (1867–1952) was a distinguished actor who excelled on European stages and in Hollywood films. He trained at the Frankfurt Conservatory and became a leading figure at the Deutsches Theater in Berlin. Forced to flee Nazi Germany in the 1930s, he continued his career in the United States. Bassermann earned an Academy Award nomination for his role in the film "Escape" (1940). Known for his naturalistic style and deep character portrayals, he influenced generations of actors. He remained active in theater and cinema until shortly before his death.

George Waggner was born in 1894 in New York City and began his career as a stage actor. He transitioned to film in the 1920s, working as a screenwriter and bit-part actor in Hollywood. By the 1930s, Waggner moved behind the camera, directing and producing features for Universal Studios. He is best known for directing the classic horror film 'The Wolf Man' in 1941. Throughout his career, he worked across genres, from gangster pictures to westerns and comedies. Waggner continued directing and producing for film and television before his death in 1984.

Elia Kazan was a Greek-American film and stage director, producer, and occasional actor. He co-founded the Actors Studio in New York, championing method acting alongside Lee Strasberg. Kazan directed classics such as 'A Streetcar Named Desire', 'On the Waterfront', and 'East of Eden'. He won Academy Awards for Best Director for 'Gentleman's Agreement' and 'On the Waterfront'. His work was celebrated for its emotional depth, social realism, and powerful performances. Despite controversy over his testimony before the House Un-American Activities Committee, his impact on film and theater endures.

Anthony Quayle was born in Atherstone, England, in 1913. He began his career on the stage and became a leading figure at the Old Vic and the Shakespeare Memorial Theatre. During World War II, he served with distinction in the Special Operations Executive. After the war, he co-founded the Compass Theatre, championing regional theatre in the UK. Quayle received an Oscar nomination for his role in Lawrence of Arabia and starred in films such as The Guns of Navarone. He was appointed CBE and remained active on stage and screen until his death in 1989.

Lída Baarová was born in Prague in 1914 and began her acting career in Czechoslovakia as a teenager. She soon attracted attention for her beauty and talent, leading to roles in major Austrian and German films. During the 1930s she became one of Europe's most sought-after screen actresses, appearing in a string of box-office successes. Her personal life made headlines when she was romantically linked to high-ranking Nazi officials, a relationship that caused scandal. After the war, Baarová returned to Czechoslovakia and continued to work in theatre and film, sharing her experiences in later memoirs. She maintained a low profile in her later years and passed away in 2000.

Born on September 7, 1923 in London, Peter Lawford moved to the United States as a child and built a successful film career in the 1940s and 50s. He appeared in classics such as "Ocean's Eleven" and "The Long, Long Trailer", showcasing his suave screen presence. As a close friend and brother-in-law to President John F. Kennedy, Lawford epitomized mid-century Hollywood glamour. He also produced television series and engaged in philanthropic efforts, though personal challenges later affected his career. His legacy lives on through iconic performances and his role in film and political history.

Bhanumathi Ramakrishna was a legendary figure in Telugu cinema and music who made her mark in multiple facets of the arts. Born in 1925, she began performing on stage as a child and transitioned to films by her teens. Over a career spanning more than six decades, she starred in and produced numerous successful movies, often directing herself in powerful roles. A gifted singer, Bhanumathi recorded classical and film songs, showcasing her versatile vocal talent. Beyond entertainment, she was celebrated for her pioneering role as a female filmmaker in a male-dominated industry. Her enduring legacy includes inspiring future generations of women in Indian cinema and preserving classical art forms.

Samuel Goldwyn Jr. was a notable figure in the American film industry who carried forward the legacy of his father, studio mogul Samuel Goldwyn. Born in 1926, he founded his own production companies, including Formosa Productions and The Samuel Goldwyn Company. Goldwyn Jr. was known for championing independent and art-house films, bringing international cinema to American audiences. He produced critically acclaimed films such as 'Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World' and 'The Secret of Santa Vittoria.' Throughout his career, he supported emerging filmmakers and innovative storytelling. He earned several Academy Award nominations and was respected for his dedication to quality cinema.

Don Messick was a legendary American voice actor whose career spanned over four decades in animation. Born in 1926, he joined Hanna-Barbera studios and lent his voice to beloved characters such as Scooby-Doo, Bamm-Bamm Rubble, and Astro the Dog. Messick's versatile vocal range allowed him to portray everything from young children to animals with distinct personalities. His work helped define the sound of classic cartoons from the 1960s through the 1990s. Beyond animation, he also voiced radio and television programs, establishing a lasting legacy in voice acting. Messick's contributions continue to influence voice performers today.

Kathleen Gorham trained at the School of the National Theatre Ballet in Melbourne and rose to prominence with the Borovansky Ballet. She became a principal dancer with the Australian Ballet, captivating audiences with roles such as Aurora in Swan Lake and Giselle. Her artistry blended technical brilliance with dramatic flair, earning international acclaim through tours in Europe and North America. After retiring from the stage, she dedicated herself to teaching and mentoring the next generation of dancers. Her legacy endures through her contributions to Australia’s ballet heritage and the many artists she inspired.

Born on September 7, 1937, in Hollywood, California, John Phillip Law embarked on an acting career that spanned over four decades. He gained international attention portraying the master thief Diabolik in Mario Bava’s 'Danger: Diabolik' (1968). Later that year, he starred opposite Jane Fonda in the science-fiction hit 'Barbarella', cementing his status as a genre icon. In 1973, Law headlined the fantasy adventure 'The Golden Voyage of Sinbad,' showcasing his athleticism and screen presence. He appeared in a wide range of films, from dramas to thrillers, and also worked as a producer. Known for his striking looks and versatile performances, he remained active in film and television into the 1990s. Law passed away in 2008, leaving behind a legacy of memorable roles.

Born on September 7, 1939, in Cardiff, Wales, Peter Gill began his artistic journey as an actor with the Royal Court Theatre in London. Transitioning into directing, he led acclaimed productions at the National Theatre and West End, noted for his fresh interpretations of classic and contemporary works. Gill is also an accomplished playwright, with original dramas that explore human relationships and social themes. He extended his craft to film and television, directing episodes that blended theatrical vision with cinematic techniques. As a mentor, he conducted workshops nurturing a new generation of actors and directors. Over six decades, Gill’s multifaceted talents have left an indelible mark on British performing arts. He continues to engage audiences with his dynamic storytelling and leadership in theatre.