September 12

Born in 1879 in Worcester, Massachusetts, Lewis Stone began his acting career on stage before transitioning to silent films. He gained widespread fame in the 1920s and 1930s for his elegant on-screen presence and refined performances. Stone received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for his role in 'The Patriot' (1928). He later became beloved as Judge James Hardy in the MGM Andy Hardy series, appearing alongside Mickey Rooney. Over his career, he appeared in more than 200 films, spanning both silent and sound eras. Stone continued acting until shortly before his death in 1953, leaving a rich legacy in American cinema.

William Boyd was born in 1895 in Ohio and began his career on Broadway before moving into silent films. He achieved lasting fame as Hopalong Cassidy, starring in 66 feature films between 1935 and 1954. Boyd negotiated ownership of the character’s rights and produced radio and television adaptations, making him one of the first actors to profit from merchandising. His clean-cut, black-clad cowboy became an icon of American Westerns, influencing popular culture for decades. He managed extensive merchandising efforts, from comic books to lunchboxes, cementing the character’s place in media history. Boyd retired in the 1960s and remained associated with Hopalong Cassidy until his death in 1972.

John Qualen was a Canadian-American character actor with a career spanning over five decades in film and theater. Born in British Columbia, he moved to the United States to pursue acting and quickly became known for his distinct Scandinavian accent. Qualen appeared in classics such as The Grapes of Wrath, where he played Muley Graves, and Casablanca as the sympathetic Ugarte. He collaborated with directors like John Ford and Alfred Hitchcock, including roles in The Man Who Knew Too Much. Qualen's versatility allowed him to perform in comedies, dramas, and musicals on Broadway and Hollywood. His warm presence and nuanced performances made him a memorable supporting actor. Over his career, he appeared in more than 90 films and numerous stage productions.

Athene Seyler was an English actress celebrated for her comedic talent and matronly roles on stage and screen. She made her West End debut in 1911 and continued to perform well into her seventies. Seyler appeared in films like Night of the Demon and The Ladykillers, showcasing her sharp wit and timing. She was a founding member of the Arts Theatre Club in London, promoting experimental theater. Seyler received acclaim for her performances in Shakespearean and modern plays alike. Known for her intelligence and charm, she also narrated children’s stories on television. Her career spanned silent films to television sitcoms, making her a beloved figure in British entertainment.

Ruth Nelson was an American stage and film actress notable for her work with the Group Theatre in the 1930s. She starred in the original Broadway production of Golden Boy and appeared in classics like None but the Lonely Heart. Nelson's nuanced performances earned her acclaim for portraying complex emotional roles. She transitioned to teaching, guiding young actors at institutions like the Juilliard School. Nelson's career spanned over six decades, including television and radio dramas. She was celebrated for her intelligence, depth, and dedication to her craft. Her influence lives on through her students and the enduring performances she left behind.

Born in 1932, Anthony Perkins was an American actor whose chilling performance as Norman Bates in Psycho became a defining moment in horror cinema. He excelled on stage, in film, and on television, showcasing his versatility in both dramatic and musical roles. As a singer, he performed cabaret shows and recorded albums that highlighted his vocal talent. Behind the camera, Perkins directed television episodes and explored storytelling from a new perspective. His enduring influence on the thriller genre continues to inspire actors and filmmakers worldwide.

Born in 1917 in New Westminster, Canada, Raymond Burr began his career in theatre before becoming a beloved television star. He gained international fame for his portrayal of defense attorney Perry Mason from 1957 to 1966, earning critical acclaim and audience adoration. Burr later starred as the wheelchair-bound Chief Ironside in the hit series Ironside, demonstrating his range and resilience. In addition to acting, he directed several television episodes, showing skill behind the camera. His legacy endures as one of television's most memorable leading men.

Born in 1909 in Kansas City, Missouri, Tom Ewell forged a versatile career across Broadway, film, and television. He achieved wide acclaim for his role as the timid husband in the iconic film The Seven Year Itch (1955), starring opposite Marilyn Monroe, showcasing his impeccable comedic timing. Ewell earned a Tony Award nomination for his stage performances, further demonstrating his dramatic skills. Over several decades, he appeared in dozens of productions, from lighthearted comedies to more serious roles on television. In addition to acting, he directed stage works and remained active in theatre until his later years, leaving a legacy of warmth and wit.

Born in 1933 in Hampshire, Jeremy Brett trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and built his reputation on stage and in classical theatre. He achieved international acclaim for his nuanced and intense portrayal of Sherlock Holmes in the Granada Television adaptation (1984–1994), widely regarded as the definitive screen Holmes. Brett's performance was praised for capturing Holmes's brilliance, quirks, and vulnerabilities. Beyond Holmes, he appeared in numerous Shakespearean and contemporary roles on stage, film, and television. Despite his struggles with bipolar disorder, Brett's dedication to his craft remained unwavering, leaving a lasting impact on audiences worldwide.

Born in 1930 in Paris, Claude Chabrol co-founded the influential film magazine Cahiers du Cinéma alongside François Truffaut and Jean-Luc Godard. His debut feature Le Beau Serge is considered a pioneering work of the French New Wave, blending realism with suspenseful storytelling. Over five decades, Chabrol directed more than 50 films, including Les Biches, Le Boucher, and La Cérémonie, often exploring themes of morality and bourgeois hypocrisy. He wrote, produced, and occasionally acted in his own films, earning acclaim for his meticulous direction and narrative depth. Chabrol's prolific output and critical perspective solidified his reputation as one of France's most important filmmakers.

Jon Finlayson (1938–2012) was a celebrated Australian actor and screenwriter. He appeared in television dramas, films, and major theatrical productions, showcasing his range in both dramatic and comedic roles. As a screenwriter, he contributed to several television series, bringing his unique voice to the scripts. Finlayson also taught acting workshops and mentored emerging performers, helping shape the next generation of Australian talent. Remembered for his wit and stage presence, he made a significant impact on the nation’s performing arts scene.