September 15

Robert Benchley was an American humorist whose deadpan wit earned him a place among the celebrated members of the Algonquin Round Table. Born in 1889, he wrote humorous essays and columns for Vanity Fair and The New Yorker. Benchley was a founding contributor to The New Yorker and influenced generations of comedy writers. He also appeared in numerous short films and radio broadcasts, bringing his unique comic style to a wider audience. His work remains a cornerstone of American humor to this day.

Jean Renoir (1894–1979), son of Impressionist painter Pierre-Auguste Renoir, was a visionary French filmmaker and actor whose humanistic storytelling shaped world cinema. He began his career acting in silent films before moving behind the camera as a screenwriter and director. His masterpieces, including La Grande Illusion (1937) and The Rules of the Game (1939), are celebrated for their social commentary, complex characters, and innovative camera work. During World War II, he worked in Hollywood before returning to France to craft acclaimed films like French Cancan (1955). Renoir received numerous honors, including a Golden Palm for Lifetime Achievement at Cannes. His legacy endures through his profound influence on generations of filmmakers.

Sheilah Graham Westbrook (1904–1988) was an English-American actress, gossip columnist, and memoirist best known for her romantic involvement with F. Scott Fitzgerald. Born Lily Shiel in London, she moved to Hollywood in the 1930s and became a celebrated gossip columnist, capturing the glamour and scandals of Tinseltown's Golden Age. Her best-selling memoir Beloved Infidel chronicles her life with Fitzgerald and was adapted into a film in 1959. Graham also authored novels and articles that provided candid insight into celebrity culture. Her unique position bridged literary circles and Hollywood, cementing her status as a chronicler of her era.

Jacques Becker began his career as an assistant to Jean Renoir before directing his own acclaimed films in the 1930s and 1940s. Known for his nuanced character studies and naturalistic style, his works such as 'Goupi mains rouges' and 'Casque d’or' earned critical praise. A contemporary of the French New Wave, Becker’s emphasis on everyday life and intimate drama influenced directors like François Truffaut and Jean-Luc Godard. Despite a relatively small body of work, his films are celebrated for their emotional depth and technical skill. Becker’s legacy endures in the continued appreciation of his humane and accessible approach to cinema.

Fay Wray gained international fame at age 21 when she starred as Ann Darrow in 'King Kong', delivering a performance that cemented her as the original 'scream queen'. Over a career spanning silent films and talkies, she appeared in over 60 movies, including 'The Most Dangerous Game' and 'Doctor X'. Wray’s expressive acting and on-screen presence made her a favorite of horror and adventure filmmakers of the era. After stepping back from Hollywood, she continued to make occasional appearances and was honored with numerous retrospective screenings and interviews. Her legacy survives in film history as a symbol of early horror cinema and pioneering female performances.

Penny Singleton rose to fame in the late 1930s as Dagwood’s wife in the 'Blondie' film series, appearing in over 20 movies and endearing herself to audiences with her comic timing. Off-screen, she showcased her vocal talents on radio programs and Broadway, demonstrating versatility as a performer. In the 1960s, Singleton brought the character of Jane Jetson to life in the popular animated series 'The Jetsons', further cementing her place in pop culture. Beyond acting, she was active in labor union leadership, serving as a vice president of the Screen Actors Guild. Her career spanned seven decades, leaving a lasting impact on film, television, and animation.

Phil Arnold made a career as a versatile supporting actor during Hollywood’s golden age, featuring in numerous comedy films and shorts from the 1930s through the 1960s. He collaborated frequently with Columbia Pictures’ short-subject department, becoming a familiar face in Three Stooges slapstick comedies. Beyond shorts, Arnold had roles in feature films and television series, showcasing his ability to play both straight and eccentric characters. Although he rarely received top billing, his reliable performances and comedic timing made him a valuable ensemble player. He continued acting until his sudden death in 1968, leaving behind a body of work cherished by classic comedy aficionados.

Born in Karachi, British India, Margaret Lockwood moved to England with her family as a child. She trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and made her film debut in the early 1930s. Lockwood shot to fame with her performance in Alfred Hitchcock's The Lady Vanishes (1938). She solidified her star status with the box office hit The Wicked Lady (1945). Over her career, she appeared in more than fifty films and also acted on stage and television. Known for her dramatic range and screen presence, she became a defining figure of British cinema. Lockwood retired from acting in the 1970s and passed away in 1990.

Nipsey Russell was born in Atlanta, Georgia, and began his career as a nightclub comedian in the 1940s. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II before returning to entertainment. Russell gained fame on television variety shows where he delivered humorous poems about current events. He appeared on The Tonight Show, Hollywood Squares, and guest-starred in films and TV series. Known for his quick wit and charming style, he became a household name. Russell was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for his contributions to TV. He passed away in 2005.

Born in Croydon, Anderson won a team silver medal in fencing at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics for Great Britain. He transitioned to cinema as a sword master and fight choreographer, working on blockbuster films. His notable credits include the lightsaber duels in Star Wars and swashbuckling battles in The Lord of the Rings. Anderson trained actors in authentic fencing techniques, blending athletic skill with dramatic flair. Over his career, he crafted combat sequences that set new standards for on-screen sword fighting. His pioneering work continues to influence stunt performers and choreographers worldwide.

Born in Los Angeles, Cooper rose to fame at age nine for his role in the Our Gang comedy series and became the first child actor nominated for an Academy Award. He continued acting in films such as The Champ and transitioned successfully to television, starring in series like Perry Mason and M*A*S*H. Cooper also directed episodes of popular TV shows and produced television movies. His career spanned over seven decades, demonstrating remarkable versatility. He is remembered as one of Hollywood’s most accomplished performers and history-makers among child actors.

Helle Virkner was one of Denmark's most beloved actresses, starring in films, theater, and television over a career spanning five decades. She displayed remarkable versatility, performing in comedies, dramas, and musicals. Virkner's credits include the Danish hit film Reptilicus and acclaimed stage productions in Copenhagen. Beyond her acting, she released several music recordings showcasing her rich singing voice. Married to Danish Prime Minister Jens Otto Krag, she also became a public figure celebrated for her charisma and talent.