September 14

Hiram Wesley Evans was the Imperial Wizard of the second Ku Klux Klan from 1922 to 1939 during its nationwide resurgence. Under his leadership, the Klan's membership swelled to millions, wielding significant social and political influence across the United States. Evans sought to present the organization as a fraternal and patriotic movement, but the group's activities were marked by violence and racial terror. His tenure was later undermined by internal scandals and financial mismanagement, leading to his resignation and the Klan's decline. Evans's role in this dark chapter of American history remains a cautionary example of how extremist ideologies can infiltrate mainstream institutions.

Charles Crichton (1910–1999) was an English director, producer, and screenwriter best known for his contributions to British film. He began his career at Ealing Studios, where he developed a keen sense of storytelling and comedic timing. Crichton's films often combined sharp humor with warm character-driven narratives. Over a career spanning six decades, he created works that have become classics of British cinema. He passed away in 1999 at the age of 89, leaving a lasting legacy in film.

Jerzy Giedroyc (1906–2000) was a Belarusian-Polish soldier, writer, and activist. He served in the Polish military before dedicating his life to advocating for freedom and cultural exchange. Exiled after World War II, Giedroyc became a leading voice among émigré intellectuals. He promoted democratic ideals and fostered dialogue within Eastern European communities. Giedroyc died in 2000 at the age of 94, leaving a legacy of intellectual and cultural engagement.

Jerry Fleck (1947–2003) was an American actor and director whose career spanned both stage and screen. He took on diverse character roles in film, showcasing his adaptability and depth. Fleck also directed independent projects, demonstrating a strong vision for storytelling. He was respected for his collaborative approach and commitment to craft. He passed away in 2003 at the age of 56, remembered for his contributions to entertainment.

Keith Floyd was an English chef and author who became a pioneering figure in televised cooking programmes. Born in 1943, he ran restaurants across Europe before turning to television in the early 1980s. His shows, including 'Floyd on France' and 'Floyd on Spain', were celebrated for their improvised style, candid banter and picturesque locations. Floyd's informal approach broke the mold of traditional cooking shows, making high-end cuisine accessible to home cooks. He wrote several bestselling cookbooks that captured his zest for bold flavors and wine pairings. His larger-than-life personality and fondness for wine endeared him to audiences. Floyd influenced a generation of celebrity chefs with his spontaneity and adventurous spirit. He passed away in 2009, leaving a lasting legacy in both print and broadcast culinary arts.

Jacques Antoine was a pioneering French television producer whose inventive game show formats captivated international audiences. Born in 1924, he revolutionized the genre with elaborate sets and adventurous challenges. His creation of 'Fort Boyard' in 1990 and 'The Crystal Maze' brought a new level of excitement and spectacle to family entertainment. Antoine’s innovative designs emphasized physical skill, teamwork, and problem-solving in dynamic environments. Over his career, he developed dozens of successful programs broadcast across Europe and beyond. His work influenced generations of producers and remains a benchmark for creative television production. He passed away in 2012, leaving a legacy of innovation in game show history.